Description
Master our sticky pineapple chicken recipe with this step-by-step guide. Achieve perfect flavor and texture every time.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp neutral oil (vegetable, canola)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
- For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup reserved pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp unseasoned rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
- 1. Prep Chicken: Pat chicken pieces dry and season with salt and pepper.
- 2. Make Sauce: In a bowl, whisk pineapple juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes. Reserve 1/4 cup of this mixture.
- 3. Sear Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken in batches until golden brown, 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- 4. Add Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Pour remaining sauce into the skillet, scraping up browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
- 5. Thicken Glaze: Whisk cornstarch into the reserved 1/4 cup sauce until smooth. Slowly pour into simmering sauce, whisking constantly until thickened and glossy (1-2 minutes).
- 6. Combine & Simmer: Return chicken and drained pineapple chunks to the pan. Toss to coat. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce is sticky. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins