This Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that will transport you to the beautiful beaches of Hawaii. Tender chicken cooked in a tangy pineapple sauce, served with steamed rice, and garnished with fresh pineapple chunks and cilantro. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests. It is easy to make and will leave everyone wanting more!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Steamed rice, for serving
- Cilantro, for garnish
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved.
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl with the marinade. Stir to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later use.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, pour the reserved marinade and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and add the slurry mixture. Stir well until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked chicken and pineapple chunks to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken and pineapple with the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the pineapple is heated through.
- Serve the Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken over steamed rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Enjoy this delicious Hawaiian dish!
Interesting Facts
Pineapples are native to South America but were brought to Hawaii by Spanish explorers in the 16th century.
Hawaii is the only US state that commercially grows pineapple for export.
The sweet and tangy flavor of pineapple complements the savory taste of chicken in this dish.