4-Ingredient Pineapple Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This 4-Ingredient Pineapple Chicken recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, offering a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful meal. With just four ingredients, this dish comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner ideas. The tender chicken is perfectly glazed with a sweet pineapple sauce that adds a tropical touch. Plus, it’s simple, delicious, and the whole family will love it!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup pineapple chunks (with juice)

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons honey

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pineapple chunks with juice, soy sauce, and honey. Stir well to mix and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

2. While the sauce is simmering, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until they are cooked through and golden brown.

3. Once the chicken is cooked, pour the pineapple sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken evenly.

4. Remove from heat and serve immediately. The chicken can be served with rice or your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Incorporate some bell peppers, onions, or snap peas for an extra crunch and color.

• Spicy version: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.

• Grilled chicken: Instead of cooking the chicken in a skillet, you can grill the chicken for a smoky flavor that pairs well with the pineapple sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a little water or pineapple juice to loosen it up.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can substitute the honey with a natural sweetener like stevia or maple syrup. You can also opt for skinless chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple works perfectly! Just chop it into chunks and use the juice along with the fruit.

What can I serve this chicken with?

This dish goes great with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a side salad for a lighter option.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and pineapple sauce in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours. Just add the sauce and chicken to the slow cooker and cook until the chicken is tender.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To make the sauce thicker, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and add it to the simmering sauce. Stir it until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but keep in mind it will take longer to cook. You’ll need to increase the cooking time to about 30-35 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pineapple sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the chicken and add the sauce when you’re ready to serve.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is very kid-friendly! The sweet pineapple glaze is a hit with children, and the dish is easy to make without too many ingredients or complex steps.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Pour the sauce over the chicken during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Conclusion

This 4-Ingredient Pineapple Chicken recipe is a fantastic, simple meal that combines tropical flavors with the comfort of a chicken dinner. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish that your whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.