If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that perfectly balances tangy sweetness with a hint of spice, look no further than this Pineapple Chicken Recipe. It’s a personal favorite that never fails to impress, wrapping juicy chicken tenderloins in a luscious, sticky pineapple glaze that sings with tropical goodness. Whether you grill it or cook it on the stovetop, this recipe delivers a burst of bright, savory-sweet flavors that turn an everyday meal into something truly special and memorable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Pineapple Chicken Recipe plays an essential role, keeping the flavors exciting and textures just right without complicating your prep. From the juicy canned pineapple juice to the spicy Asian chili paste, every element works together to create that irresistible balance of sweet, tangy, and savory.

2 pounds chicken tenderloins: Choose tenderloins or thinly pounded skinless chicken breasts for quick, even cooking.
1/4 cup olive oil: Helps the marinade penetrate and prevents the chicken from sticking when grilling or searing.
2 teaspoons cornstarch: Thickens the pineapple glaze into a beautiful, glossy sauce.
1 cup canned pineapple juice: The star of the marinade, bringing natural sweetness and tropical flavor.
1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar: Adds rich sweetness and caramel notes to the glaze.
1-2 tablespoons lemon juice: A splash brightens the dish; adjust amount for less or more tang.
2 tablespoons ketchup: Introduces a subtle tanginess and depth to the marinade.
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the sweetness beautifully.
2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce: Deepens umami flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Brings a gentle kick and complexity.
1-2 teaspoons Asian chili paste (like Sambal Oelek): Adjust for heat level and awaken the palate.
1 teaspoon each salt, garlic powder, ginger powder: Classic spices that round out the flavor profile.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle savory background notes.
Chopped green onions: Fresh garnish that brightens every bite.
Additional Asian chili sauce (to taste): Perfect for those who love extra heat and flavor.

How to Make Pineapple Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Whisk the Marinade and Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together pineapple juice, brown sugar, lemon juice, ketchup, red wine vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, chili paste, salt, garlic powder, ginger powder, and onion powder in a medium bowl. Reserve about one-third of this mixture and set it aside in the fridge to use later as your glaze. Add olive oil to the remaining marinade, toss in the chicken, and let it soak up those flavors for 2 to 4 hours in the refrigerator. This step ensures your chicken is juicy, tender, and bursting with taste from the very first bite.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken for Cooking

When it’s almost time to cook, remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes. This simple step helps the chicken cook more evenly. Meanwhile, preheat your grill to medium heat or get your skillet ready if going stovetop. Pat the chicken dry before cooking to get a beautiful sear that locks in all those flavors.

Step 3: Grill or Cook the Chicken

If grilling, place the chicken on the grill and cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the internal temperature hits 165°F. For stovetop cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Lower the heat, cover, and cook a few more minutes until fully cooked through. Both methods deliver juicy, flavorful chicken perfect for glazing.

Step 4: Thicken the Glaze and Finish the Chicken

While the chicken cooks, whisk cornstarch into your reserved marinade and gently simmer it in a covered saucepan on the grill or stovetop until thickened. Once the chicken is done, brush it generously with this luscious glaze for a sticky, tangy finish. For stovetop chicken, toss the cooked pieces right in the glaze to coat evenly. This final step makes the Pineapple Chicken Recipe sing with sticky-sweet vibrancy.

How to Serve Pineapple Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions and a touch of lemon zest on top really elevates this dish visually and adds a refreshing brightness. For those who like a little extra kick, drizzle some Asian chili sauce on the side or directly on the chicken; it complements the sweet pineapple beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Pineapple Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple, fluffy white rice that soaks up every bit of the glaze. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables or a crisp Asian slaw for added crunch and color that bring balance to each plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the glazed chicken over coconut rice and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro. Another crowd-pleaser is to skewer the chicken on sticks with pineapple chunks and grill them kabob-style. Presenting it family-style on a platter decorated with pineapple slices adds a tropical flair perfect for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pineapple Chicken Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the chicken completely before sealing it to preserve freshness and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked glazed chicken for up to 2 months. Wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftover pineapple chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra glaze if it seems dry. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals, making sure not to overcook and dry out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple juice?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple juice will add a fresher, more vibrant flavor, but be sure to strain it well to avoid pulp. You might need a bit more sugar to balance the tartness.

How spicy is this Pineapple Chicken Recipe?

The heat level is adjustable based on how much chili paste and chili sauce you add. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice and add more to taste when serving.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes, the marinade can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This makes getting dinner ready even easier when you’re short on time.

What if I don’t have a grill or a skillet? Can I bake the chicken?

Certainly! Bake the marinated chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, then broil for a few minutes with the glaze brushed on to get that sticky, caramelized finish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! The Pineapple Chicken Recipe reheats well and keeps its flavor, making it an excellent option for meal prep lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Pineapple Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of flavors with every bite. Its perfect marriage of sweet, spicy, and savory makes it a standout on any table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do sharing it—grab those ingredients, fire up your grill or stove, and bring a little taste of sunshine to your next meal!

Pineapple Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 22 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including marinating)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This Pineapple Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts or tenderloins marinated and glazed in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy pineapple sauce. Grilled or pan-seared to perfection, this dish is complemented with a flavorful pineapple glaze, green onions, and optional chili sauce, making it a delicious and vibrant meal perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade and Chicken: Whisk all the marinade and glaze ingredients together (except olive oil and cornstarch) in a medium bowl. Reserve 1/3 cup for the glaze and whisk in 1/4 cup olive oil with the rest of the marinade. Place the chicken in a large freezer bag or container, add the marinade mixture, and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours to marinate. Keep the reserved portion for the glaze refrigerated separately.
Bring Chicken to Room Temperature: About 15 to 30 minutes before cooking, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature to ensure even cooking.
For Grilling – Preheat and Prepare: Grease and preheat grill to medium heat, approximately 375 to 450°F. Remove chicken from marinade, drain well, and pat dry to promote good grill marks and prevent flare-ups.
Grill the Chicken: Place chicken on the grill and cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached, indicating the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
Make the Glaze: While the chicken cooks, whisk 2 teaspoons cornstarch into the reserved marinade glaze. Place the mixture in a covered saucepan on the grill or stovetop and bring to a simmer. Once simmering, remove the lid and whisk frequently until the glaze thickens. Brush the cooked chicken generously with this glaze before serving.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish the glazed chicken with fresh lemon zest, chopped green onions, and add extra Asian chili sauce if desired for more heat. Serve immediately, preferably with rice.
For Stove Top Cooking – Heat Oil: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Remove chicken from marinade, pat dry, and add to skillet.
Cook Chicken on Stove: Cook chicken undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes to get a good sear. Flip, cover, and reduce heat to medium. Continue cooking for 3 to 5 minutes or until cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
Prepare Glaze in Skillet: Whisk 2 teaspoons cornstarch into the reserved glaze and add to the empty skillet. Bring it to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally. Return chicken to skillet and toss in the glaze to coat evenly.
Final Garnish and Serve: Garnish stove-top chicken with lemon zest, chopped green onions, and extra chili sauce to taste. Serve warm with sides of your choice.

Notes

Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours and up to 4 hours for maximum flavor and tenderness.
If you prefer less tanginess, use only 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
The glaze can be prepared on the grill or stovetop depending on available space.
Adjust the amount of Asian chili paste or additional chili sauce according to your preferred spice level.
To ensure even cooking, let the chicken come to room temperature before grilling or cooking on the stovetop.
Serve this dish with steamed rice or a light salad to balance the richness of the glaze.
If using chicken breasts, pounding to an even thickness ensures quicker, even cooking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 2-4 hours marinating)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling or Stove-Top Cooking
Cuisine: Asian Fusion