Are you craving a delicious and easy-to-make dish that bursts with vibrant flavors? Then look no further! This Chicken Pineapple Filipino recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, offering a unique taste experience that's sure to become a family favorite. This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights and easily adaptable to your preferences, making it a versatile addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. It’s one of those best recipes that’s both healthy and satisfying. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
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Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Return chicken to the skillet. Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar. Stir well to combine. Add the drained pineapple chunks.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and tender.
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Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of the reserved pineapple juice until smooth. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering chicken and pineapple, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
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Season and Serve: Season with black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over cooked rice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When searing the chicken, ensure the pieces are not overcrowded. This will help them brown properly instead of steaming. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar. Conversely, add more for a sweeter profile.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for a more nutritious and flavorful meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Pineapple: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Chicken Pineapple with Coconut Milk: Substitute 1/2 cup of coconut milk for some of the chicken broth for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This delicious Chicken Pineapple Filipino recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that don’t compromise on taste or health. It's a healthy meal option that's quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish!