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Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken Simple and Tasty Meal

by on February 27, 2025

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Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken is perfect for you! This dish combines flavors that burst in your mouth. It’s easy to prepare and great for any night. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can impress your family or friends. Ready to learn how? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger - Salt and pepper, to taste To make the chicken tender and tasty, I use bite-sized pieces. The sweet chili sauce adds a lovely flavor. Soy sauce gives it a savory kick. Olive oil helps cook the chicken evenly. Fresh ginger adds a nice zing, while salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. - 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks - 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced into thin strips - 1 small red onion, sliced into half-moons - 3 cloves garlic, minced - Chopped green onions, for garnish - Sesame seeds, for garnish The pineapple brings sweetness and acidity, balancing the dish perfectly. Bell peppers add crunch and color. Red onion gives a mild sweetness, while garlic adds depth. Green onions and sesame seeds are great for garnishing, making your dish look stunning. - 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce - 2 tablespoons soy sauce These two sauces are key to the overall flavor. Sweet chili sauce gives a nice sweet heat. Soy sauce adds umami and depth. Together, they create a rich sauce that coats the chicken and veggies beautifully. This dish is simple and quick to prepare. You will love how fresh and vibrant it tastes! {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, cut 1 pound of chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. In a medium bowl, mix the chicken with 1/4 cup of sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger. Add a pinch of salt and ground pepper for flavor. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let it marinate for up to 2 hours. This will make the chicken taste even better. Next, gather your tools. You need a large skillet for this step. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Once hot, add the sliced red onion and 3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and sauté for about 2 minutes until they smell great and the onion turns slightly translucent. Now, it's time to cook the chicken. Increase the heat if needed and add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken turns golden brown and is fully cooked. Check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. After the chicken is cooked, toss in the sliced bell pepper and 1 cup of fresh pineapple chunks. Stir everything together and cook for an extra 3 to 4 minutes. This step caramelizes the pineapple and softens the veggies while keeping them crisp. Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the mix to a serving platter. Enjoy this colorful and tasty dish with fresh green onions and sesame seeds on top! To get the best taste from your chicken, marinate it well. Use a bowl that fits all the chicken pieces. Mix in sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and ginger. Add salt and pepper for extra flavor. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. For even more taste, marinate it for up to 2 hours. This makes the chicken juicy and full of flavor. When cooking, keep an eye on the heat. Start with medium-high heat to get a nice sear. This helps the outside become golden brown. Use a large skillet to give the chicken space. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Cook until the inside reaches 165°F. This ensures it’s safe to eat and still tender. Overcooking can make it dry, so watch the time closely. Make your dish pop with color and style. Serve the chicken over fluffy jasmine rice. This adds a soft base to balance the dish. Place fresh pineapple wedges around the chicken. This not only looks great but also brings out the flavors. Top with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This adds a nice crunch and a fresh touch. Pro Tips Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours if possible. This enhances the flavor and tenderness, making each bite more delicious. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, use fresh pineapple and vibrant bell peppers. Fresh ingredients will elevate the dish and provide a more authentic flavor. Control the Heat: Adjust the heat while cooking to avoid burning the garlic and onions. Start on medium-high but lower it if they begin to brown too quickly. Garnish Creatively: Don't skip the garnish! Chopped green onions and sesame seeds not only add visual appeal but also enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. {{image_4}} You can switch chicken for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice touch. Just marinate them in the same sauce. Tofu gives a great plant-based option. Press it to remove extra water, then cut it into cubes. Marinate tofu just like the chicken. Both options keep the sweet and spicy flavors. Feel free to add other veggies. Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots work well. These veggies add crunch and color. You can also try mushrooms for a different texture. Just make sure to adjust cooking times for each vegetable. You want them cooked but still crisp. You can change the sweetness and heat to suit your taste. Add more sweet chili sauce for extra sweetness. For more heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili. You can also mix in lime juice for a tangy twist. Adjusting these flavors makes the dish your own. To keep your Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool down first. Place the container in the fridge. The dish stays good for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken. You can use the microwave or a skillet. For the microwave, heat on medium for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir halfway through to warm it evenly. If using a skillet, add a little oil and heat over medium. Cook until hot, about 5 minutes. If you want to freeze, portion the chicken into smaller containers. This helps with thawing later. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags. Label them with the date. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. To keep your chicken tender, marinate it well. Use sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and fresh ginger. A good rule is to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you can, let it sit longer, up to 2 hours. This helps infuse flavor and moisture. Also, cook the chicken over medium-high heat. This ensures it cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F. Yes, you can use canned pineapple. However, fresh pineapple gives a better flavor and texture. Canned pineapple is softer and may not caramelize as well. If you use canned pineapple, drain it well before adding it to the skillet. This helps prevent excess moisture in your dish. Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken pairs well with jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce perfectly. You can also serve it with quinoa or noodles for a twist. Adding a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad balances the meal. For extra flavor, top your dish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. This adds a nice crunch and a pop of color. This blog shared how to make a tasty Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken. We covered ingredients, marinating the chicken, and cooking tips. You learned about helpful variations, such as using shrimp or tofu. Storing and reheating tips will keep your meals fresh. Remember, a little planning can turn your meal into a feast. Enjoy your cooking, and don’t be afraid to get creative!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet pineapple and spicy chili sauce creates a delightful contrast that awakens the taste buds.
  2. Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
  3. Vibrant Colors: The bright colors of the bell pepper and pineapple make the dish visually appealing and enticing.
  4. Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade Ingredients

– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

– Salt and pepper, to taste

To make the chicken tender and tasty, I use bite-sized pieces. The sweet chili sauce adds a lovely flavor. Soy sauce gives it a savory kick. Olive oil helps cook the chicken evenly. Fresh ginger adds a nice zing, while salt and pepper enhance all the flavors.

Vegetables and Garnishes

– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks

– 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced into thin strips

– 1 small red onion, sliced into half-moons

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– Chopped green onions, for garnish

– Sesame seeds, for garnish

The pineapple brings sweetness and acidity, balancing the dish perfectly. Bell peppers add crunch and color. Red onion gives a mild sweetness, while garlic adds depth. Green onions and sesame seeds are great for garnishing, making your dish look stunning.

Sauce Ingredients

– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce

These two sauces are key to the overall flavor. Sweet chili sauce gives a nice sweet heat. Soy sauce adds umami and depth. Together, they create a rich sauce that coats the chicken and veggies beautifully.

This dish is simple and quick to prepare. You will love how fresh and vibrant it tastes!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

To start, cut 1 pound of chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. In a medium bowl, mix the chicken with 1/4 cup of sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger. Add a pinch of salt and ground pepper for flavor. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let it marinate for up to 2 hours. This will make the chicken taste even better.

Preparing the Stir-fry

Next, gather your tools. You need a large skillet for this step. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Once hot, add the sliced red onion and 3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and sauté for about 2 minutes until they smell great and the onion turns slightly translucent.

Cooking the Chicken and Adding Veggies

Now, it’s time to cook the chicken. Increase the heat if needed and add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken turns golden brown and is fully cooked. Check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. After the chicken is cooked, toss in the sliced bell pepper and 1 cup of fresh pineapple chunks. Stir everything together and cook for an extra 3 to 4 minutes. This step caramelizes the pineapple and softens the veggies while keeping them crisp.

Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the mix to a serving platter. Enjoy this colorful and tasty dish with fresh green onions and sesame seeds on top!

Tips & Tricks

Marinating Tips for Best Flavor

To get the best taste from your chicken, marinate it well. Use a bowl that fits all the chicken pieces. Mix in sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and ginger. Add salt and pepper for extra flavor. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. For even more taste, marinate it for up to 2 hours. This makes the chicken juicy and full of flavor.

Cooking Techniques for Tender Chicken

When cooking, keep an eye on the heat. Start with medium-high heat to get a nice sear. This helps the outside become golden brown. Use a large skillet to give the chicken space. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Cook until the inside reaches 165°F. This ensures it’s safe to eat and still tender. Overcooking can make it dry, so watch the time closely.

Presentation Suggestions

Make your dish pop with color and style. Serve the chicken over fluffy jasmine rice. This adds a soft base to balance the dish. Place fresh pineapple wedges around the chicken. This not only looks great but also brings out the flavors. Top with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This adds a nice crunch and a fresh touch.

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours if possible. This enhances the flavor and tenderness, making each bite more delicious.
  2. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, use fresh pineapple and vibrant bell peppers. Fresh ingredients will elevate the dish and provide a more authentic flavor.
  3. Control the Heat: Adjust the heat while cooking to avoid burning the garlic and onions. Start on medium-high but lower it if they begin to brown too quickly.
  4. Garnish Creatively: Don’t skip the garnish! Chopped green onions and sesame seeds not only add visual appeal but also enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.

Variations

Alternative Proteins

You can switch chicken for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice touch. Just marinate them in the same sauce. Tofu gives a great plant-based option. Press it to remove extra water, then cut it into cubes. Marinate tofu just like the chicken. Both options keep the sweet and spicy flavors.

Different Vegetable Options

Feel free to add other veggies. Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots work well. These veggies add crunch and color. You can also try mushrooms for a different texture. Just make sure to adjust cooking times for each vegetable. You want them cooked but still crisp.

Adjusting Sweetness and Heat

You can change the sweetness and heat to suit your taste. Add more sweet chili sauce for extra sweetness. For more heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili. You can also mix in lime juice for a tangy twist. Adjusting these flavors makes the dish your own.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool down first. Place the container in the fridge. The dish stays good for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken. You can use the microwave or a skillet. For the microwave, heat on medium for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir halfway through to warm it evenly. If using a skillet, add a little oil and heat over medium. Cook until hot, about 5 minutes.

Freezing Tips for Meal Prep

If you want to freeze, portion the chicken into smaller containers. This helps with thawing later. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags. Label them with the date. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I ensure my chicken stays tender?

To keep your chicken tender, marinate it well. Use sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and fresh ginger. A good rule is to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you can, let it sit longer, up to 2 hours. This helps infuse flavor and moisture. Also, cook the chicken over medium-high heat. This ensures it cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F.

Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple. However, fresh pineapple gives a better flavor and texture. Canned pineapple is softer and may not caramelize as well. If you use canned pineapple, drain it well before adding it to the skillet. This helps prevent excess moisture in your dish.

What to serve with Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken?

Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken pairs well with jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce perfectly. You can also serve it with quinoa or noodles for a twist. Adding a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad balances the meal. For extra flavor, top your dish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. This adds a nice crunch and a pop of color.

This blog shared how to make a tasty Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken. We covered ingredients, marinating the chicken, and cooking tips. You learned about helpful variations, such as using shrimp or tofu. Storing and reheating tips will keep your meals fresh.

Remember, a little planning can turn your meal into a feast. Enjoy your cooking, and don’t be afraid to get creativ

- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger - Salt and pepper, to taste To make the chicken tender and tasty, I use bite-sized pieces. The sweet chili sauce adds a lovely flavor. Soy sauce gives it a savory kick. Olive oil helps cook the chicken evenly. Fresh ginger adds a nice zing, while salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. - 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks - 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced into thin strips - 1 small red onion, sliced into half-moons - 3 cloves garlic, minced - Chopped green onions, for garnish - Sesame seeds, for garnish The pineapple brings sweetness and acidity, balancing the dish perfectly. Bell peppers add crunch and color. Red onion gives a mild sweetness, while garlic adds depth. Green onions and sesame seeds are great for garnishing, making your dish look stunning. - 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce - 2 tablespoons soy sauce These two sauces are key to the overall flavor. Sweet chili sauce gives a nice sweet heat. Soy sauce adds umami and depth. Together, they create a rich sauce that coats the chicken and veggies beautifully. This dish is simple and quick to prepare. You will love how fresh and vibrant it tastes! {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, cut 1 pound of chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. In a medium bowl, mix the chicken with 1/4 cup of sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger. Add a pinch of salt and ground pepper for flavor. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let it marinate for up to 2 hours. This will make the chicken taste even better. Next, gather your tools. You need a large skillet for this step. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Once hot, add the sliced red onion and 3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and sauté for about 2 minutes until they smell great and the onion turns slightly translucent. Now, it's time to cook the chicken. Increase the heat if needed and add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken turns golden brown and is fully cooked. Check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. After the chicken is cooked, toss in the sliced bell pepper and 1 cup of fresh pineapple chunks. Stir everything together and cook for an extra 3 to 4 minutes. This step caramelizes the pineapple and softens the veggies while keeping them crisp. Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the mix to a serving platter. Enjoy this colorful and tasty dish with fresh green onions and sesame seeds on top! To get the best taste from your chicken, marinate it well. Use a bowl that fits all the chicken pieces. Mix in sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and ginger. Add salt and pepper for extra flavor. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. For even more taste, marinate it for up to 2 hours. This makes the chicken juicy and full of flavor. When cooking, keep an eye on the heat. Start with medium-high heat to get a nice sear. This helps the outside become golden brown. Use a large skillet to give the chicken space. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Cook until the inside reaches 165°F. This ensures it’s safe to eat and still tender. Overcooking can make it dry, so watch the time closely. Make your dish pop with color and style. Serve the chicken over fluffy jasmine rice. This adds a soft base to balance the dish. Place fresh pineapple wedges around the chicken. This not only looks great but also brings out the flavors. Top with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This adds a nice crunch and a fresh touch. Pro Tips Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours if possible. This enhances the flavor and tenderness, making each bite more delicious. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best taste, use fresh pineapple and vibrant bell peppers. Fresh ingredients will elevate the dish and provide a more authentic flavor. Control the Heat: Adjust the heat while cooking to avoid burning the garlic and onions. Start on medium-high but lower it if they begin to brown too quickly. Garnish Creatively: Don't skip the garnish! Chopped green onions and sesame seeds not only add visual appeal but also enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. {{image_4}} You can switch chicken for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice touch. Just marinate them in the same sauce. Tofu gives a great plant-based option. Press it to remove extra water, then cut it into cubes. Marinate tofu just like the chicken. Both options keep the sweet and spicy flavors. Feel free to add other veggies. Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots work well. These veggies add crunch and color. You can also try mushrooms for a different texture. Just make sure to adjust cooking times for each vegetable. You want them cooked but still crisp. You can change the sweetness and heat to suit your taste. Add more sweet chili sauce for extra sweetness. For more heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili. You can also mix in lime juice for a tangy twist. Adjusting these flavors makes the dish your own. To keep your Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool down first. Place the container in the fridge. The dish stays good for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken. You can use the microwave or a skillet. For the microwave, heat on medium for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir halfway through to warm it evenly. If using a skillet, add a little oil and heat over medium. Cook until hot, about 5 minutes. If you want to freeze, portion the chicken into smaller containers. This helps with thawing later. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags. Label them with the date. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. To keep your chicken tender, marinate it well. Use sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and fresh ginger. A good rule is to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you can, let it sit longer, up to 2 hours. This helps infuse flavor and moisture. Also, cook the chicken over medium-high heat. This ensures it cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F. Yes, you can use canned pineapple. However, fresh pineapple gives a better flavor and texture. Canned pineapple is softer and may not caramelize as well. If you use canned pineapple, drain it well before adding it to the skillet. This helps prevent excess moisture in your dish. Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken pairs well with jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce perfectly. You can also serve it with quinoa or noodles for a twist. Adding a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad balances the meal. For extra flavor, top your dish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. This adds a nice crunch and a pop of color. This blog shared how to make a tasty Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken. We covered ingredients, marinating the chicken, and cooking tips. You learned about helpful variations, such as using shrimp or tofu. Storing and reheating tips will keep your meals fresh. Remember, a little planning can turn your meal into a feast. Enjoy your cooking, and don’t be afraid to get creative!

Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken Delight

A delightful stir-fry featuring chicken, fresh pineapple, and colorful vegetables, all coated in a sweet chili sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
  • 1 whole bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced into thin strips
  • 1 small red onion, sliced into half-moons
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • to garnish chopped green onions
  • to garnish sesame seeds

Instructions
 

  • In a medium-sized bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, freshly grated ginger, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure each piece of chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor).
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the sliced red onion and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté them for about 2 minutes or until they become fragrant and slightly translucent.
  • Increase the heat if necessary, then add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook the chicken for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
  • Introduce the sliced bell pepper and fresh pineapple chunks into the skillet. Toss everything together and stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes.
  • Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken mixture onto a serving platter. Garnish generously with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an appealing finish.

Notes

For a stunning presentation, serve over steamed jasmine rice with fresh pineapple wedges.
Keyword chicken, pineapple, stir-fry, sweet chili

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