If you’re after a dinner that’s bursting with flavor, a little sweet, a little savory, and downright irresistible, this Sticky Pineapple Chicken Recipe is an absolute must-try. I love this recipe because it hits all the right notes—juicy chicken thighs, caramelized pineapple, and a sticky, tangy sauce that clings to every bite. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become a favorite in your weeknight rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect balance of flavors: The sweet pineapple and tangy sauce complement the savory chicken perfectly.
- Quick and easy: Ready in just about 25 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal.
- Versatile serving options: Pairs beautifully with rice and fresh veggies for a well-rounded dinner.
- Crowd-pleaser: My family goes crazy for this one every time I make it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient here plays a key role in building the flavor and texture that makes this Sticky Pineapple Chicken Recipe so special. From juicy chicken thighs to that punchy pineapple juice, these components work harmoniously to give you a delicious result. When you’re shopping, opt for fresh garlic and ginger if you can—they really lift the whole dish.
- Sesame oil: Adds a subtle nutty flavor and high smoking point perfect for frying.
- Chicken thighs: I prefer thighs over breasts for their juiciness and tenderness when cooked.
- Pineapple pieces: Fresh or canned both work, but draining the juice carefully is key to controlling the sauce’s sweetness.
- Pineapple juice: Gives natural sweetness and helps achieve that sticky glossy coating.
- Low salt soy sauce: Keeps the sodium in check while offering rich umami depth.
- Sweet chilli sauce: Brings a mild kick with sweetness—feel free to adjust based on your heat preference.
- Crushed ginger and garlic: Essential aromatics that add warmth and complexity.
- Cornflour: This thickens the sauce perfectly, making it luscious and sticky.
- White rice: The classic base that soaks up all the saucy goodness.
- Edamame beans: Adds a pop of color and extra protein.
- Radishes: Thinly sliced for a crisp, peppery bite.
- Avocado: Creamy contrast that cools down the sweet and savory.
- Spring onion: Fresh and mild onion flavor to finish it off.
- Sesame seeds: For a beautiful garnish and subtle crunch.
Variations
I love how this Sticky Pineapple Chicken Recipe can be easily customized—whether you want to amp up the spice, make it a little lighter, or even swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. Here’s how I’ve played around with it to make it mine, and you can too!
- Add a kick: Once, I added a pinch of cayenne powder for extra heat and my family loved the spicy twist alongside the sweet pineapple.
- Swap the protein: Chicken breasts work if you cook them carefully to avoid drying out, or try firm tofu for a vegetarian spin.
- Low carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a lighter, grain-free option.
- Extra veggies: Bell peppers or snap peas stir-fried and added in make it even more colorful and nutritious.
How to Make Sticky Pineapple Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Sizzle the Chicken to Juicy Perfection
Start by heating the sesame oil in a nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced chicken thighs and stir them around for about 5 minutes until they’re nicely browned on all sides. You’ll notice the aroma immediately—this is your sign that we’re off to a good start. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if needed, cook in batches so the chicken can get that lovely golden crust instead of steaming.
Step 2: Caramelize the Pineapple
Drain your pineapple pieces, but keep the juice handy for later. Add the pineapple to the pan with the chicken and let it cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want them to start browning and caramelizing, which brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth. This step really elevates the whole dish, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Bring on the Sticky Sauce
Whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, sweet chilli sauce, crushed garlic, crushed ginger, and cornflour until smooth. Push the chicken and pineapple slightly to the edges of the pan to create a space in the center. Pour this sauce mixture in, then gently stir everything together. Keep cooking and stirring for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through—this sticky coating is what makes this recipe so addictive!
Step 4: Assemble Your Delicious Bowl
Start with a base of hot, fluffy rice. Top it generously with your sticky chicken and pineapple mixture. Add cooked edamame beans, thinly sliced radishes, creamy avocado slices, and freshly chopped spring onions. Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds to add a little crunch and that beautiful finishing touch. Each bite gives you a variety of textures and flavors—trust me, it’s magic.
Pro Tips for Making Sticky Pineapple Chicken Recipe
- Use Chicken Thighs: I learned early on that thighs stay juicy and tender even with high-heat cooking, unlike breasts that can dry out fast.
- Don’t Skip Draining Pineapple: Too much pineapple juice makes the sauce runny, so drain well and use the juice separately for the sauce measurement.
- Cornflour Slurry First: Whisk the cornflour into the liquids before adding to the pan to avoid lumps and get a silky sauce.
- Cook in Batches if Needed: Crowding the pan steams the chicken instead of browning it, so give it space for best flavor and texture.
How to Serve Sticky Pineapple Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping this dish with a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds—they add a mild crunch and nutty flavor that complements everything. The spring onions bring fresh brightness, and the creamy avocado slices balance the sauce’s tangy sweetness beautifully. Radishes are a fun crunch addition, and I swear they make the dish feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This sticky pineapple chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or sticky white rice. For extra veggies, I often serve it with sautéed snap peas or steamed bok choy. If you want something lighter, a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar is refreshing alongside all those rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If I’m serving this for guests or a fun dinner party, I like to build individual rice bowls topped with the chicken mixture and arranged garnishes like avocado slices, radishes, and edamame beans around the edges. It’s not only colorful but makes for a festive presentation that gets everyone excited to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chicken and sauce keep their flavor beautifully, but I prefer to keep the avocado and fresh garnishes separate until serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
This Sticky Pineapple Chicken Recipe freezes well, just be sure to freeze the chicken and sauce mixture separately from any fresh sides like avocado or radishes. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
I reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent the sauce from sticking or burning. If it feels too thick, a splash of water or pineapple juice helps loosen the sauce back up without watering down the flavor.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this Sticky Pineapple Chicken Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breast, but be careful not to overcook it since breasts dry out faster. Cook on medium heat and remove from the pan as soon as the chicken is cooked through to keep it juicy.
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Is it okay to use canned pineapple?
Absolutely! Just make sure to drain the pineapple well and reserve the juice to use in your sauce so you control the sweetness and consistency perfectly.
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How can I make this recipe spicier?
You can increase the amount of sweet chilli sauce or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne powder to the sauce mixture depending on your heat tolerance.
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Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, swap regular soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and double-check that your sweet chilli sauce is gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Sticky Pineapple Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a treat while still being easy enough for a busy night. I absolutely love how the sticky sauce coats tender chicken and caramelized pineapple, creating a mouthwatering combo that feels special without any fuss. So, the next time you want something fresh, flavorful, and comforting, try this recipe—I promise it’ll make your taste buds dance and your family ask for seconds. Happy cooking, friend!
Print
Sticky Pineapple Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Sticky pineapple chicken is a delicious sweet and savory dish featuring tender diced chicken thighs cooked in a sticky pineapple-infused sauce. This meal combines juicy pineapple pieces, a flavorful sweet chili and soy sauce glaze, and a hint of ginger and garlic to create a perfect balance of flavors. Served over fluffy white rice and accompanied by fresh veggies like edamame beans, radishes, avocado, and spring onion, it makes for a tasty and wholesome dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 600g chicken thighs, diced
- 150g pineapple pieces
- 100ml pineapple juice
- 3 Tbsp low salt soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp sweet chilli sauce
- 1 tsp crushed ginger
- 1 tsp crushed garlic
- 1 Tbsp cornflour
Accompaniments
- 2 cups white rice, cooked
- 1 cup edamame beans, cooked
- 2 radishes, finely sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 spring onion, finely sliced
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- Heat the pan: Heat sesame oil in a nonstick frying pan over medium heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook chicken: Add the diced chicken thighs to the pan and stir frequently, cooking for about 5 minutes until the chicken starts to brown on the outside.
- Brown pineapple: Drain the pineapple pieces, reserving the juice. Add the pineapple to the frying pan and cook for 3 minutes, allowing the pieces to brown slightly and caramelize.
- Prepare and add sauce: Whisk together pineapple juice, low salt soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, crushed ginger, crushed garlic, and cornflour to create the sauce. Make a gap in the center of the frying pan and pour the sauce in.
- Cook sauce and chicken: Stir continuously as the sauce cooks and thickens, coating the chicken and pineapple. Continue cooking until the chicken is fully cooked through and the sauce is glossy and sticky.
- Assemble the dish: Serve the sticky pineapple chicken on a bed of hot cooked white rice. Top with cooked edamame beans, thinly sliced radish, avocado slices, spring onion, and finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Chicken and pineapple are cooked in a flavorful sweet and sour sauce that thickens to a sticky glaze.
- The dish is complemented by a combination of cooked and fresh vegetables, providing contrasting textures and nutrients.
- For a healthier option, brown rice can be substituted for white rice.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by cutting a piece to check the inside is no longer pink before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 624
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 656 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 23 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 44 g
- Cholesterol: 192 mg
