Pineapple Chicken Recipe Sticky Pineapple Glaze With Red Peppers

I love a dish that delivers big flavor without a big fuss, and this is it! Imagine the sweet, tangy aroma of pineapple mingling with savory chicken, all coated in a rich, glistening sauce. This pineapple chicken recipe is your answer for easy dinner ideas. For my busy weeknights, getting a wholesome, family-friendly meal on the table in under 30 minutes is crucial. This recipe is a proven winner, consistently earning rave reviews. Get ready for essential ingredients and simple steps to make this sticky pineapple chicken your new weeknight hero.

Ingredient Essentials for Sticky Pineapple Chicken

Crafting the perfect Sticky Pineapple Glaze With Red Peppers starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this vibrant, healthy eating dish:

• Chicken:

  1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) bite-sized pieces. (Thighs stay juicier, but breasts cook faster; use what you prefer for this high-protein meal.)

• Pineapple:

  1 can (20 oz/567g) pineapple chunks, packed in 100% juice, with 1/4 cup (60ml) juice reserved. (Provides sweetness, tang, and is key to the sticky pineapple glaze base. Opt for no-sugar-added varieties for lower-carb meals.)

• Red Bell Peppers:

  2 large red bell peppers, deseeded and sliced into thin strips. (Adds beautiful color, a delightful crunch, and mild sweetness, making this a truly family-friendly meal.)

• Sticky Glaze Base:

  1/2 cup (120ml) low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free), 1/4 cup (60ml) rice vinegar, 1/4 cup (50g) packed light brown sugar, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 Tbsp (15g) grated fresh ginger. (These aromatic elements form the heart of our delicious sticky pineapple glaze.)

• Thickener:

  2 Tbsp cornstarch whisked with 2 Tbsp cold water. (This slurry ensures your sticky pineapple chicken sauce achieves that perfect glossy, sticky texture.)

• Other:

  1 Tbsp cooking oil (like avocado or canola), salt and pepper to taste.

For premium swaps, consider organic ingredients like hormone-free chicken. Fresh pineapple can be used for a vibrant twist, just ensure you have extra juice. If you’re tracking macros, low-sodium soy sauce is a healthier alternative.

This pineapple chicken recipe is naturally dairy-free and nut-free. For a gluten-free version, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce. To lower carbs or sugar, reduce brown sugar or use a substitute, and serve over cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.

Choose firm, brightly colored red bell peppers for best results. Always select quality canned pineapple packed in 100% juice, not heavy syrup. Consider local butchers for fresh chicken or explore online grocery delivery services for convenience.

Cooking Steps Made Simple: Your Sticky Pineapple Chicken

This pineapple chicken recipe is designed for speed and flavor, perfect for quick meals. Follow these easy steps to a delicious dinner.

1. Prep the Chicken (5 minutes): Pat chicken dry, cut into uniform 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces. Season lightly with salt and pepper. This helps ensure even browning and flavor.

2. Make the Sticky Glaze (5 minutes): Whisk together reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a bowl. The mixture should smell sweet and tangy as the sugar dissolves.

3. Sear the Chicken (8-10 minutes): Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken in a single layer and cook until golden brown. Remove from pan. If it looks dry, splash in 1-2 Tbsp more oil. I find my 10-inch skillet works perfectly for this.

4. Build the Glaze (3-5 minutes): Pour glaze mixture into the hot pan, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer, stirring until slightly thickened and it coats a spoon. Your kitchen will fill with a sweet aroma.

5. Add Peppers & Chicken (7-10 minutes): Return chicken to the pan. Add sliced red bell peppers. Simmer until peppers are tender-crisp and the sticky pineapple glaze with red peppers coats everything beautifully. The sauce will get glossier as it cools.

Note: Glaze will thicken further as it cools.

For Stove-Top cooking, this is our primary method for quick, flavorful results. For Oven-Baked Pineapple Chicken, arrange chicken and peppers on a baking sheet, pour glaze over, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. For Instant Pot cooking, sauté chicken, then add glaze and peppers; cook on high pressure for 3-4 minutes, quick release. For extra quickness, use pre-cut chicken. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. For a deeper color, add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the glaze.

Best Times to Enjoy & Serving Suggestions

This delightful sticky pineapple chicken fits perfectly into various mealtime scenarios, offering both flavor and convenience for your family.

• Easy weeknight dinners: This sticky pineapple chicken is perfect for busy evenings when you need a satisfying meal fast.
• Holiday meals: A vibrant, crowd-pleasing addition to any festive spread that’s sure to impress.
• Meal prep: Makes excellent leftovers, providing quick, high-protein snacks or lunches throughout the week.
• School lunches: A fun, protein-packed option that kids love and you can feel good about.

Pairing suggestions:

• Sides: Steamed white or brown rice, fluffy quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
• Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, steamed green beans, or vibrant sautéed snap peas complement the flavors beautifully.
• Garnish: Fresh chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds add a finishing touch.
• Drinks: Iced tea, sparkling water with lime, or a crisp white wine.

Storage:

Store any leftover sticky pineapple chicken in airtight containers to maintain its freshness. It keeps well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge, or you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months.

When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the glaze, I often do this if reheating from frozen.

Nutrition and Lifestyle Perks of This Easy Pineapple Chicken Recipe

Enjoy a protein-packed dinner that supports muscle growth and keeps you feeling full. This pineapple chicken recipe is a balanced meal for healthy eating goals, incorporating lean protein, fruit, and vegetables, easily adaptable for diabetic-friendly options.

• Excellent source of lean protein for sustained energy throughout your day.
• Naturally rich in vitamins, especially C from pineapple and peppers, and antioxidants.
• A quick, healthy meal prep recipe that simplifies weeknight cooking for busy households.
• Hearty and satisfying, making it a perfect family-friendly dinner option everyone will love.
• Easily customizable to fit various dietary needs, from low-carb to gluten-free options.

Why This Sticky Pineapple Chicken Recipe Makes Life Easier

This dish is a true helper in the kitchen, offering convenience, budget-friendliness, and incredible flexibility for your daily life.

• Spend less time in the kitchen and more precious moments with your family.
• Helps meet fitness goals with a lean protein meal that’s easy to track and enjoy.
• Simple enough for beginners, yet delicious enough to impress even seasoned foodies.
• A versatile recipe that helps you use up pantry staples and avoid food waste effortlessly.

Kitchen Secrets, Adjustments & Safe Swaps

Unlock the full potential of your sticky pineapple chicken with these pro tips and creative ideas.

Pro tips for flavor and texture:

• Marinating the chicken for 15-30 minutes enhances flavor depth and tenderness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing chicken for a better, more even crust.
• Whisk cornstarch with cold liquid to avoid lumps in your sticky pineapple glaze, ensuring a smooth finish.

Creative add-ins and festive twists:

• Stir in some water chestnuts or bamboo shoots during the last few minutes for extra crunch.
• Add a splash of sriracha or a few red pepper flakes for a subtle, spicier kick.
• Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions for a restaurant-quality finish.

Allergy-aware suggestions and safe substitutions:

• For a gluten-free sticky pineapple chicken, use tamari instead of traditional soy sauce.
• To reduce sugar, swap brown sugar for a monk fruit or erythritol blend in equal measure.
• If sensitive to garlic or ginger, use their powdered forms in smaller amounts to suit your taste.

Reader Questions About Sticky Pineapple Chicken

“Can pineapple chicken be prepped ahead for the week?”

Absolutely! Cook the chicken and make the glaze, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Combine and reheat when ready to serve for a quick, healthy meal.

“What are good substitutes for red bell peppers in this pineapple chicken recipe?”

You can easily use yellow or orange bell peppers for a similar sweetness and color. Snap peas or even broccoli florets are also great options; just adjust cooking time for desired tenderness.

“Is this pineapple chicken recipe spicy?”

As written, this pineapple chicken recipe is sweet and savory, not spicy. However, it’s incredibly easy to add a dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the glaze if you prefer a delicious kick!

“Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned for this sticky pineapple glaze?”

Yes, absolutely! Fresh pineapple adds a wonderful brightness. Just ensure you have enough pineapple juice on hand, as fresh pineapple often yields less juice than canned for your sticky pineapple glaze base.

“How do I make the pineapple chicken glaze thicker?”

If your sticky pineapple glaze isn’t thick enough, make a bit more cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 Tbsp cold water) and whisk it in, simmering gently until it reaches your desired consistency. I’ve found this simple trick always saves a thin glaze, ensuring that perfect coating every time.

“Is pineapple chicken a healthy option for weight loss diets?”

Yes, pineapple chicken can definitely be a healthy option! This recipe is lean protein-packed. Control your portion sizes and consider reducing the added brown sugar in the glaze for a lighter, more diabetic-friendly option to align with your health goals.

There you have it—your new go-to for a flavor-packed, easy, and family-friendly sticky pineapple chicken dinner, making healthy eating a breeze. I find this dish makes quick healthy meals a reality for our family. Pin this amazing recipe now, it’s perfect for your weekly meal prep!

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