Easy Pineapple Chicken (One Pot)

Quick and easy pineapple chicken recipe, made with simple ingredients in one pot and just 30 minutes on stovetop.

This simple weeknight meal is sweet and tangy with a subtle spicy kick. It's so easy to make and packs so much flavor. Compared to other recipes, this would be considered a slightly healthier version since the chicken is not fried.

I also have a slow cooker version of Crockpot Pineapple Chicken that you should also check out. Both of these recipes pair well with Coconut Rice (One Pot). There is something about the combination of pineapple and coconut that sets my mouth to watering every time.

Key ingredients

• Oil- For best results, use sesame oil and olive oil.
• Chicken- Use boneless, cut into cubes.
• Garlic- Brings a great flavor combination.
• Ginger- Be sure it is fresh, minced.
• Onion- White are best for this recipe.
• Green pepper- Get one that is sweet and crisp.
• Pineapple and juice- You can use canned or fresh.
• Soy sauce- Low sodium is recommended.
• Chicken broth- Adds flavor, color, and moisture.
• Hoisin sauce- Brings in a sweet and tangy taste.
• Brown sugar- This has a slightly different flavor than granulated sugar.
• Cornstarch- Helps to thicken the sauce.
• Salt and pepper- Adjust according to personal taste.
• Red chili flakes- Used as a garnish.

Variations

• Some other garnish ideas- Include finely chopped green onions, cilantro, or roasted sesame seeds.
• Use other chicken options- Such as chicken breasts or drumsticks. It can be shredded, baked, or grilled.
• Teriyaki version- Just add ¼ cup of Teriyaki sauce for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Add BBQ sauce- To spice things up a bit, simply add ¼ cup to the recipe.
• Make a marinade- Mix all the ingredients together in a Ziploc bag to make a marinade. It's great for grilling outside or baking in the oven too.
• Stir fry- Add more vegetables and saute everything together. Serve over rice.
• Make Kabobs- Marinate the chicken and place on skewers with various vegetables. Place on the grill and enjoy. Grilled pineapple is always a hit.

How to make sweet chicken

1. Saute chicken- In hot oil until golden brown.
2. Add in- Garlic, ginger, onions, green pepper, and pineapples and cook until tender.
3. Mix in- The pineapple juice, soy sauce, broth, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and cornstarch.
4. Simmer until liquid is reduced- Then sprinkle with red chili flakes.

What to serve with Hawaiian chicken

• Rice or quinoa- You can try this Pineapple Rice (One Pot) or Cilantro Lime Rice (One Pot).
• Vegetables- My favorite pairing includes Oven Roasted Broccoli (One Pan) or Oven Roasted Asparagus (One Pan).
• Salad- Easy Green Salad (One Bowl) or Easy Kale Salad (One Bowl).

Tips and techniques

• Use a non-stick pan- To prevent burning and sticking.
• Adjust the amount of spices- Especially red chili flakes, to your preference.
• Use whatever vegetables you like- I only used onions and green peppers.
• Both fresh or canned pineapple- Can be used in this recipe.
• This tastes best- When served over boiled rice or even fried rice.
• Use low sodium broth and soy sauce- To prevent your dish from being overly salty.
• To avoid lumpy sauce- Dissolve cornstarch in 2 tablespoon water before adding it to the pot. 

Recipe FAQs

Storage

• Make ahead- You can make this beforehand and place it in a sealed container in the fridge for 3 days or in the freezer for 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.
• Refrigerate- Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Freeze- Store in a sealed container in the freezer for up to 1 month.
• Reheat- Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in the microwave until warmed through or place in a pot and heat on the stove.

Other One Pot Chicken Recipes:

• Chicken and Broccoli (One Pot)
• Honey Sriracha Chicken (One Pot)
• Mexican Shredded Chicken (One Pot)
• Crispy Fried Chicken Bites (One Pot)
• Jalepeno Popper Chicken (One Pot)

Recipe