If you’re a pineapple lover like me, I think you’ll love my simple pineapple chicken recipe. I use pineapple juice and chunks to add that delicious tangy flavor, and it’s loaded with savory soy sauce to balance things out. It tastes just like my favorite Chinese takeout. Note: This recipe is one of those few exceptions on our site that has more than 10 ingredients. We try to keep things VERY easy around here, and limiting ingredients and time spent is one of our favorite ways. That being said, this recipe is too delicious to leave out of our recipe box! It’s an exception that is so flavorful and worth the extra ingredients if you have the time and resources to make it.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover pineapple chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop.
How to Make Pineapple Chicken Step by Step
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season 1 pound of cubed boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper, add it to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes, until browned on all sides. Stir 1 chopped red bell pepper and cook for 3 minutes more, until tender. Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup of pineapple juice, 4 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, ¼ cup of low-sodium chicken stock, ½ cup of brown sugar, ⅓ cup of hoisin sauce, 2 minced cloves of garlic, and ½ of a minced jalapeno pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. In a small bowl, mix together 2 teaspoons of cornstarch and 2 teaspoons of water (to make a slurry). Whisk the cornstarch slurry into the sauce and continue to simmer until the sauce has thickened, about 5 minutes. Simmer and Serve: Pour sauce over the chicken, stir, and simmer for 3 minutes. Add 1 cup of pineapple chunks and ¼ cup of cashews to the skillet and stir to combine. Optionally, serve over white rice and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh lime wedges.
