Chicken Pineapple Recipe You’ll Want to Make Every Summer

Last Updated on January 29, 2026 by Souhail

There’s something wildly nostalgic about the sweet, sticky glaze of a chicken pineapple recipe. I still remember the first time I had it—it was at a neighborhood potluck in Brooklyn, and someone brought in this steaming dish with golden pineapple chunks and glistening chicken coated in a glossy, tangy sauce. I took one bite, and boom—flavor fireworks. Since then, it’s been one of my go-to dishes when I want something easy but seriously satisfying.

This recipe fits perfectly into your weeknight rotation but feels festive enough for entertaining. The chicken is tender and juicy, soaking up the bright, sweet juices of pineapple and the umami kick of soy sauce and garlic. There’s a subtle heat from chili flakes (optional but highly recommended) and a zingy finish from a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice. It’s comforting, flavorful, and ready in under 40 minutes. Plus, it’s one of those magical recipes that hits all the flavor notes—sweet, savory, tangy, and just a little spicy.

Trust me, once you try this chicken pineapple recipe, it’s going to become a regular in your kitchen.

Here’s Why This Chicken Pineapple Recipe Totally Works

What makes this chicken pineapple recipe such a standout? It’s the perfect marriage of flavors, textures, and simplicity. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it just like I did:

• Sweet and savory balance: Pineapple brings that bright tropical sweetness, which plays beautifully with salty soy sauce, aromatic garlic, and zingy vinegar.
• Fast, weeknight-friendly cooking: You can pull this together in under 40 minutes with minimal prep, making it perfect for busy nights.
• One-pan magic: Fewer dishes, more flavor. This recipe is mostly made in one skillet or wok, so cleanup is a breeze.
• Customizable heat: Want to kick it up? Add chili flakes or fresh jalapeños. Prefer it mild? Leave them out and enjoy the mellow sweet-and-savory combo.
• Versatile pairing: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even inside lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
• It’s a meal prep win: The flavors get even better the next day, making leftovers a treat you’ll actually look forward to.

Dietary Swaps You Can Try:

• Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.
• Low-carb/keto: Serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Vegan version: Sub tofu or seitan for the chicken and make sure to use vegan-friendly sauces.

Let’s Make This Chicken Pineapple Together!

Chicken Pineapple

Recipe by Souhail

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: DinnerCuisine: AsianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories

370

kcal

A quick, sweet and savory chicken pineapple stir-fry that’s perfect for weeknights and bursting with tropical flavor.

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Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cubed

• 1 tbsp oil (vegetable or sesame)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 inch ginger, grated

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned in juice)

• 0.25 cup pineapple juice (from the can or fresh)

• 3 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice

• 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish

Directions

• Grab your apron, and let’s cook this sweet-and-savory magic. I’ll walk you through it like we’re cooking side by side in my New York kitchen.
• Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for that extra tenderness, but chicken breasts work just fine too. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.
• Next, heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Drizzle in a little oil and add the chicken pieces. Let them sizzle undisturbed for a few minutes so they get that golden sear, then stir and cook until they’re about 80% done. Remove and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and toss in chopped garlic and ginger. The smell here is incredible! After about 30 seconds, add bell peppers and sauté just until slightly softened.
• Now pour in pineapple chunks (with a bit of the juice), soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and a splash of water. Stir it all together and let it simmer for 5–6 minutes, reducing slightly.
• Bring the chicken back to the pan, toss it in the sauce, and simmer everything together until the chicken is fully cooked and coated in that thick, sticky glaze.
• Want it a bit spicy? Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
• Finish it off with chopped scallions and sesame seeds. Serve it hot over jasmine rice or even with a refreshing side.

Notes

• You can use canned pineapple but avoid the syrup-packed kind—it’s too sweet.
• If your sauce is too thin, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water) to thicken.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day after the flavors meld together.
• Add veggies like broccoli or snap peas to make it a full one-pan meal.
• For a bolder flavor, use dark soy sauce or add a splash of oyster sauce.
• Want it extra spicy? A chopped red chili or a drizzle of chili oil does the trick.

Nutrition Facts

• Total number of serves: 4
• Calories: 370kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 16g
• Protein: 30g

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My Go-To Tips for Chicken Pineapple Success

Want that perfect glossy finish and just-right texture? Here are some pro tips I’ve picked up over the years that make this recipe shine:

• Use fresh pineapple if you can: The natural enzymes tenderize the chicken and add vibrant flavor. Canned works too, just go for chunks in juice (not syrup).
• Brown the chicken first: Getting a little sear on your chicken locks in flavor and gives a gorgeous golden color.
• Don’t rush the sauce: Let it simmer until thick and sticky. That glossy, clingy texture is what makes this dish so addictive.
• Balance is key: If the dish feels too sweet, add a splash of lime juice or rice vinegar to brighten it up.
• Add veggies for a one-pan meal: Bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli are great stir-in options. They soak up the sauce and add crunch.

Fun Twists You Can Try with This Chicken Pineapple Recipe

Once you’ve made this classic version, you might want to switch things up depending on your mood, your pantry, or who you’re feeding. Here are some of my favorite variations:

Spicy Thai-Inspired Pineapple Chicken

Add a spoonful of red curry paste and a splash of coconut milk to the sauce. Finish with Thai basil and a squeeze of lime. This version leans creamy, spicy, and herbaceous—so good over jasmine rice!

Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry

Toss in a bunch of chopped veggies like bell peppers, snow peas, and broccoli. Cook them with the chicken for a complete, colorful one-pan stir-fry. The pineapple juice becomes a natural glaze for everything in the pan.

Honey Garlic Pineapple Chicken

Add an extra tablespoon of honey and double up on the garlic for a sweeter, stickier vibe. Think garlic-glazed wings but with juicy chunks of chicken and golden pineapple. Kids especially love this one.

Lettuce Wrap Pineapple Chicken

For a lighter, low-carb twist, skip the rice and spoon the saucy chicken mixture into crisp butter lettuce leaves. Top with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for a fun texture boost.

Pineapple Tofu Stir-Fry (Vegan!)

Swap the chicken for crispy tofu cubes. Use the same sauce ingredients (with tamari for gluten-free) and enjoy a satisfying plant-based version that’s packed with protein and flavor.

What to Serve With Chicken Pineapple (Because You’ll Want More!)

This dish is bold and bright on its own, but it becomes next-level when paired with the right sides. Here are a few ways to round out your tropical feast:

• Steamed jasmine or coconut rice – Perfect for soaking up every drop of that glossy sauce.
• Garlic noodles or vermicelli rice noodles – For a Southeast Asian twist.
• Stir-fried vegetables – Like bok choy, bell peppers, or snow peas tossed with garlic and sesame oil.
• Crispy spring rolls or dumplings – A crunchy, savory starter that balances the sweetness of the chicken.
• Twice Baked Potatoes – Yes, it sounds unusual, but the savory, cheesy texture contrasts surprisingly well with the tropical flavors. Try this recipe for an indulgent side.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers Like a Pro

This chicken pineapple recipe is just as good (maybe even better) the next day, which makes it great for meal prep or leftovers.

• Storage: Let the dish cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze it too! Store it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen up the sauce. Microwave is fine for smaller portions, just heat in 30-second bursts and stir often to avoid overcooking.

FAQs About Chicken Pineapple

In Conclusion: Let’s Bring Some Tropical Flavor Into Your Kitchen

Whether you’re craving something warm, tangy, and comforting, or just need a quick dinner that feels special, this Chicken Pineapple recipe is a total winner. It’s sweet, savory, just a little spicy, and 100% satisfying.

Try it out this week, and let me know how it turns out! And if you’re looking for something sweet to follow it up with, these easy peach jam jars are a lovely little treat—or chill things down with this dreamy peach sorbet.

Tag me if you make it—I love seeing your delicious results!