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best pineapple chicken recipe

Best Pineapple Chicken Recipe

This tropical-inspired pineapple chicken recipe is packed with vibrant flavors and contrasting textures. The citrusy glaze coats tender chicken bites, paired perfectly with creamy coconut rice and a refreshing mango-pineapple salsa. A drizzle of spicy mayo ties it all together, making each bite sweet, savory, and spicy in the best way.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 3
Course: Dinner
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Lemon Ginger Chicken
  • 1 lb chicken breast diced – Boneless, skinless chicken cooks faster and stays juicy when cut evenly.
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated – Adds warmth and a sharp, zesty bite.
  • Zest of 1 lemon – Enhances aroma and boosts the citrus notes.
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice – Helps tenderize the chicken and gives a tangy depth.
  • 2 tbsp honey – Balances the tartness of lemon with natural sweetness.
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce – Adds umami and rounds out the flavors.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil – Ideal for sautéing the chicken without overpowering its flavor.
  • Salt & pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning at each stage.
  • Coconut Rice
  • 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice – Fragrant rice works best for absorbing coconut flavor.
  • 1 cup coconut milk – Use full-fat for a creamier texture.
  • 1/2 cup water – Helps regulate the consistency of the rice.
  • 1/2 tsp salt – Brings out the natural sweetness in coconut milk.
  • Pineapple Mango Salsa
  • 1/2 cup diced pineapple – Use fresh for better texture and flavor.
  • 1/2 cup diced mango – Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion – Gives a slight crunch and sharpness.
  • 1 tbsp lime juice – Brightens up the salsa with acidity.
  • Fresh cilantro chopped – Optional, but adds a herbal lift.
  • Salt & pepper to taste – Balance the sweetness and acidity.
  • Spicy Mayo
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise – Acts as the creamy base.
  • 1 –2 tsp sriracha – Customize the heat level to your liking.
  • 1 tsp lime juice – Cuts the richness of mayo and enhances flavor.

Method
 

  1. Start by rinsing the jasmine or basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and keeps the rice fluffy. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice with coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking. After the time is up, remove it from heat and let it sit for 5 more minutes to finish steaming. Fluff with a fork before serving.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together grated ginger, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, and soy sauce. This glaze is the flavor powerhouse of the dish. The honey caramelizes slightly when cooked, while ginger and lemon cut through the richness.
  4. The sauce will look slightly thin at first, but as it cooks down later with the chicken, it will thicken and become glossy. Set it aside for now and prepare the chicken.
  5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet in a single layer. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until golden brown on one side.
  6. Flip and cook the other side until fully cooked. Pour the lemon ginger glaze over the chicken. Stir gently and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the glaze thickens and evenly coats each piece. The result should be shiny, aromatic, and sticky chicken bites.
  7. While the chicken simmers, combine diced pineapple, mango, red onion, and lime juice in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper and toss gently. You can also stir in chopped cilantro if you like a fresher, herbaceous flavor.
  8. The salsa should be juicy and vibrant, with sweet and acidic notes balancing each other. Chill the mixture briefly in the fridge while you prepare the rest of the dish.
  9. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth. This spicy mayo acts as the creamy contrast to the sweet and citrusy flavors in the dish.
  10. Taste and adjust the heat if needed by adding more sriracha. If you want a thinner consistency, add a few drops of water.
  11. To assemble, start by scooping coconut rice into your bowl as the base. Add a generous serving of lemon ginger chicken on top. Spoon some pineapple mango salsa over the side, allowing the juices to run slightly into the rice.
  12. Drizzle the spicy mayo over everything, then garnish with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge if you like. Serve warm and enjoy the layers of flavor in every bite.