Get ready to indulge in a vibrant dish with our pineapple chicken recipe! This delightful combination of tender chicken and juicy pineapple creates a flavor explosion that transports you to a tropical paradise. Perfect for any occasion, this dish can easily impress your family and friends while being simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this mouthwatering meal!
Ingredients
– 2 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
– 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
– 1/2 cup bell peppers, chopped
– 1/4 cup onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, while the cooking time is around 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken thigh with pineapple) contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 28g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional value is based on one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch to create a marinade.
2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let sit for 10 minutes.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil.
4. Add diced onion and garlic, sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
5. Remove chicken from marinade and add to the skillet, searing for 5 minutes on each side.
6. Add bell peppers and pineapple to the skillet, stirring gently.
7. Pour remaining marinade over the chicken and vegetables.
8. Cover and let simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
9. Check chicken for doneness, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
10. Serve hot over cooked rice.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option or use canned pineapple if fresh isn’t available. Additionally, swap out bell peppers for zucchini or snap peas for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
This pineapple chicken pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or quinoa. It can also be served alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pineapple chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the dish.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcooking the chicken can make it dry; use a meat thermometer.
– Skipping the marination step can reduce flavor depth.
– Not using fresh pineapple might alter the taste.
– Using low-quality soy sauce can result in a bland dish.
– Ignoring the resting time after cooking may impact juiciness.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, add a splash of lime juice before serving.
– Garnish with fresh cilantro for a vibrant touch.
– Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey.
– Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and burning.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking for even cooking.
What can I serve with pineapple chicken?
Pineapple chicken pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can also check that the juices run clear.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken a few hours in advance for more flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Pineapple chicken makes great leftovers and can be stored for several days in the fridge.
Conclusion
This pineapple chicken recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its simple preparation and vibrant taste, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this tropical dish that brings the sunshine to your dining table!
Pineapple Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 chicken thighs boneless and skinless
- 1 cup fresh pineapple diced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers chopped
- 1/4 cup onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch to create a marinade.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil.
- Add diced onion and garlic, sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Remove chicken from marinade and add to the skillet, searing for 5 minutes on each side.
- Add bell peppers and pineapple to the skillet, stirring gently.
- Pour remaining marinade over the chicken and vegetables.
- Cover and let simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Check chicken for doneness, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve hot over cooked rice.