Pineapple Chicken(China)
Pineapple Chicken is a vibrant dish that combines tender chicken with the sweetness of pineapple, a hint of ginger, and the savory depth of soy sauce. This dish is perfect for families looking for a quick weeknight meal that bursts with flavor and tropical flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add some water to the cornstarch; stir into a paste and set aside.
- Heat a wok and add the peanut oil.
- Add the ginger, garlic, and chicken to the wok; fry for a while.
- Add soy sauce, white wine, and 1 teaspoon of sugar to the wok.
- Fry for a while, then cover the wok and cook for 4 to 5 minutes.
- Uncover the wok and fry a little more.
- Add the pineapple to the wok and fry a little more.
- Add the remaining sugar and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the scallions and fry for a while.
- Finally, add the paste and cook for a few seconds until the paste is cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for at least 30 minutes before cooking. If fresh ginger isn't available, ground ginger can be used, but reduce the amount. Adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar or pineapple juice if desired. For a kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes. This recipe can also be served over Stir-Fried Rice for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pineapple Chicken over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a colorful and satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Chow Mein or Sweet And Sour Cashew Chicken for a delightful spread. Garnish with additional scallions for freshness and a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. You can also microwave it, covered, for about 2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Chicken(China) contains roughly 300 calories, with 14g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value) and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2649mg per serving (115% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of breasts for a juicier result. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly, as thighs may require a slightly longer cooking time.
What can I substitute for peanut oil?
If you're allergic to peanuts or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute peanut oil with vegetable oil, canola oil, or sesame oil for a unique twist.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Pineapple Chicken is great for meal prep. Just make sure to store it separately from rice or other sides until you're ready to eat to maintain freshness and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).