Chinese Pineapple Chicken: The Ultimate Pineapple Chicken Recipe

Name: Chinese Pineapple Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 28 ounces crushed pineapple + juice; 0.5 cup chicken stock; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 4 tablespoons brown sugar, packed; 0.5 teaspoon ginger; 2 tablespoons minced garlic; 0.5 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional); 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small chunks; 1 teaspoon peanut oil; 0.5 teaspoon sea salt; 0.25 teaspoon pepper; 1 cup cornstarch (for coating); 1.5 cups peanut oil (for frying)

Introduction to Chinese Pineapple Chicken

Chinese Pineapple Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or special occasions. The vibrant flavors of pineapple and savory chicken come together to create a dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through creating a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love.

A Personal Story Behind My Chinese Pineapple Chicken Journey

Growing up, my family often enjoyed Chinese takeout, and one of our favorites was pineapple chicken. The combination of sweetness and savory flavors always brought a smile to my face. When I decided to learn how to cook, this dish was one of the first I tackled. Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe to make it my own, adding my special touch with the perfect balance of ingredients. Now, I’m excited to share my version of Chinese Pineapple Chicken with you, hoping it will become a cherished dish in your home as well.

What Makes This Chinese Pineapple Chicken Recipe Special?

This recipe stands out because of its simplicity and the vibrant flavors it brings to the table. The crushed pineapple not only adds sweetness but also a wonderful juiciness that keeps the chicken moist. The use of garlic and ginger enhances the flavor profile, making each bite a burst of tropical goodness. Additionally, frying the chicken in peanut oil provides a crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the sauce. It’s a dish that combines comfort food with a taste of the tropics, making it a unique addition to any meal plan.

The Full Chinese Pineapple Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

28 ounces crushed pineapple + juice
1/2 cup chicken stock
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
3 tbsp soy sauce
4 tbsp brown sugar, packed
1/2 tsp ginger
2 tbsp minced garlic
1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
3 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp water
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small chunks
1 tsp peanut oil
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 cup cornstarch (for coating)
1 1/2 cups peanut oil (for frying)

Instructions

In a medium bowl, mix the crushed pineapple with juice, chicken stock, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, minced garlic, red chili flakes, cornstarch, and water. Whisk well and set aside. Tip: Ensure all ingredients are combined thoroughly for a well-flavored sauce.

Toss the chicken chunks with peanut oil in a large bowl. Sprinkle with sea salt and pepper, and stir to combine. Set aside. Tip: Make sure the chicken is evenly coated for consistent flavor.
Place the cornstarch in a zip-top bag, add the chicken, and shake to coat. Set aside for later. Tip: This method helps to keep the chicken crispy when frying.

Heat peanut oil in a wok or large skillet to 350°F. Tip: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is hot enough for frying.
Carefully fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain the oil temperature.
Repeat with the remaining chicken until all pieces are fried. Tip: Ensure each batch is equally golden for best results.

Transfer the hot oil to cool in a heatproof container. Tip: Be cautious when handling hot oil to avoid burns.
In a medium saucepan, combine the minced garlic and pineapple sauce. Simmer and stir until the sauce thickens. Tip: Keep stirring to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan.
Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Tip: Let the chicken sit in the sauce for a minute for the best flavor absorption.

Serve the Pineapple Chicken with Pineapple Sauce over fried or steamed rice. Tip: Garnish with green onions for added color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Chinese Pineapple Chicken

This Chinese Pineapple Chicken is best served over a bed of fluffy fried or steamed rice, as it complements the sauce beautifully. You can also pair it with sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. For those who enjoy a little heat, consider increasing the amount of red chili flakes in the sauce for a spicier kick. Alternatively, you can add cashews or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences, making it a fantastic option for any dinner table.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Pineapple Chicken

Q: Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
A: Yes! While this recipe uses chicken, you can substitute it with shrimp or tofu for a different twist.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure the chicken stock is gluten-free.

Q: Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it before adding the chicken.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: This dish pairs well with steamed broccoli, bok choy, or a simple green salad to balance the flavors.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories per Serving: 450
Servings: 6