Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Chicken

When it comes to the world of culinary experiences, tropical cuisine stands out for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and the delightful fusion of sweet and savory profiles. Among the tropical ingredients that have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of chefs and home cooks alike, pineapple reigns supreme. Its unique ability to elevate both sweet and savory dishes makes it a treasured component in various cuisines, particularly in the tropical regions where it thrives.

Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Chicken

Discover the vibrant flavors of the tropics with our Pineapple Paradise Chicken recipe! This delightful dish combines tender chicken thighs with the sweet and tangy burst of fresh pineapple, enhanced by a touch of soy sauce, honey, and sriracha for a balanced flavor that excites your palate. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is a visual and culinary feast that will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unforgettable meal!

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Ingredients

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (or canned, drained and rinsed)

3 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust based on your spice preference)

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon ginger powder (or 1 inch fresh ginger, minced)

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1/4 cup scallions, chopped (for garnish)

Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, sriracha, rice vinegar, garlic powder, ginger powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until thoroughly mixed. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).

Prepare for Cooking: After marination, take the chicken out of the fridge. If using fresh pineapple, carefully dice it into bite-sized chunks and set aside. This will add a refreshing sweet balance to the dish.

Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade, setting the marinade aside for later use. Place the chicken in the skillet, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F/75°C for safety).

Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the reserved marinade with cornstarch to create a slurry. Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked, add the diced pineapple to the skillet with the chicken. Pour the cornstarch slurry evenly over the chicken and pineapple, stirring to incorporate. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Garnish and Serve: When the sauce has thickened and the pineapple is warmed through, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Chicken over a bed of steamed rice or fluffy quinoa. For a vibrant finish, garnish with a generous sprinkling of chopped scallions and sesame seeds. Delight in this sweet and spicy tropical dish!