Indulge in Sticky Pineapple Chicken for a Quick, Delicious Meal!

Introduction to Sticky Pineapple Chicken

Sticky Pineapple Chicken is a delightful fusion of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. This irresistible dish combines tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and a mouthwatering sauce that caramelizes to create a dish that’s both visually appealing and bursting with flavor. Pineapple has long been a beloved ingredient in Asian cuisine, adding a touch of tropical sweetness and acidity that perfectly complements the richness of the chicken. With its easy-to-follow preparation and the alluring combination of ingredients, Sticky Pineapple Chicken is a recipe that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Sticky Pineapple Chicken

To make this delicious Sticky Pineapple Chicken, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

Chicken

• 3 chicken breasts (approx. 525 g / 1.1 lbs), cut into bite-sized chunks
• 2 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch in the US)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 tbsp oil (vegetable or neutral-flavored)

Sauce

• 435 g (15 oz) canned chopped pineapple in juice (keep the juice and pineapple separate)
• 2 tbsp soft brown sugar
• 3 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato purée (tomato paste in the US)

Stir-Fry Additions

• 1 onion, peeled and cut into wedges
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped into chunks
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp minced fresh ginger

To Serve

• Cooked rice
• Fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped
• Sriracha (optional, for heat)

Preparation Steps

Let’s get started on making this delectable Sticky Pineapple Chicken:

Coat Chicken

In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornflour, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.

Brown Chicken

Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken and cook for 5 – 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and nearly cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate.

Stir-Fry Vegetables

In the same pan, add the onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 2 minutes until they are slightly softened. Then, add the garlic and ginger, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Make Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice, brown sugar, dark soy sauce, and tomato purée until the mixture is well combined.

Combine & Simmer

Return the chicken to the pan along with the pineapple chunks. Pour in the sauce mixture, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3 – 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce becomes glossy and sticky.

Serve

Spoon the sticky pineapple chicken over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped coriander and a drizzle of Sriracha for extra heat, if desired.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Sticky Pineapple Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of rice dishes, from fluffy white rice to fragrant jasmine or basmati. For a heartier meal, you can serve it over a bed of steamed or fried rice. As for sides, consider pairing it with a simple stir-fried vegetable medley or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the sweetness of the dish.

When it comes to drinks, Sticky Pineapple Chicken can be enjoyed with a crisp, cold beer or a refreshing tropical cocktail like a piña colada or a pineapple mojito. The sweet and tangy flavors of the dish also make it a great pairing for a fruity white wine or a light, citrusy IPA.

Nutritional Information

Sticky Pineapple Chicken is a relatively healthy and well-balanced meal. Chicken is a lean protein source, providing essential amino acids, while the pineapple adds a boost of vitamin C and other antioxidants. By using cornflour for coating the chicken and keeping the sauce simple, the dish can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

One serving of Sticky Pineapple Chicken (without rice) contains approximately 300 calories, 30 grams of protein, 15 grams of carbohydrates, and 10 grams of fat. To make the dish even healthier, you can opt for lean chicken breasts, reduce the amount of oil used, and serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Variations of Sticky Pineapple Chicken

While the classic Sticky Pineapple Chicken is delicious as is, there are various ways to put your own spin on the dish:

• Protein Substitutions: Instead of chicken, you can use shrimp, tofu, or pork as the main protein.
• Sauce Variations: Experiment with different sauces, such as a sweet and sour sauce, a teriyaki-inspired glaze, or a spicy chili-garlic sauce.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add more vegetables, such as broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms, for a more substantial and diverse stir-fry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when you marinate chicken in pineapple?

Marinating chicken in pineapple juice helps to tenderize the meat by breaking down the protein fibers. The natural enzymes in pineapple, such as bromelain, act as a natural meat tenderizer, resulting in a more tender and juicy chicken texture.

What does pineapple chicken taste like?

Pineapple chicken has a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The pineapple adds a bright, tropical sweetness that complements the rich, umami notes of the chicken and soy sauce. The overall taste is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory, with a subtle tang from the pineapple.

How long can chicken sit in pineapple juice?

Chicken can safely marinate in pineapple juice for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to limit the marinating time to 2-4 hours, as the enzymes in pineapple can break down the chicken’s proteins too much if left for too long, resulting in a mushy texture.

Does pineapple change the texture of chicken?

Yes, the enzymes in pineapple can indeed change the texture of chicken. When marinated in pineapple juice or fresh pineapple, the chicken becomes more tender and juicy. The enzymes help to break down the tough muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender and almost “melty” texture in the chicken.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork
• Sticky Honey Chicken
• Grilled Shrimp Bowl
• Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Conclusion

Sticky Pineapple Chicken is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds. The combination of tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and a delectable, caramelized sauce creates a truly irresistible meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this Sticky Pineapple Chicken recipe is a must-try. So gather your ingredients, fire up the wok, and get ready to savor the sweet, savory, and tangy perfection of this incredible dish!

Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!

Print