Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken

Name: Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 2 green onions, sliced; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Dining at Home

When I first tried Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken, I was amazed by the explosion of flavors! The combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy from the chili and pineapple brought a whole new dimension to my usual chicken recipes. This dish has truly become a favorite in my family, with its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma. I've found that marinating the chicken in the sweet chili sauce really enhances the overall taste and keeps the meat juicy. Trust me, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:33:36.496Z

As I prepared to make Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken for dinner, I realized how much joy its tropical flavor brings to my family. The pairing of chicken with sweet chili sauce and fresh pineapple is not only delicious but also visually stunning. I always recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse every bite with flavor.

During my taste-testing phase, I discovered that grilling the chicken instead of pan-frying keeps it moist while adding that irresistible smoky flavor. It’s a perfect choice for summer barbecues or any time you crave something light yet satisfying!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors
Fresh pineapple adds a tropical twist
Easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners

Marinade Magic

Marinating the chicken in the sweet chili sauce is key to infusing the meat with flavor and keeping it juicy. I usually let it sit for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, marinating for a few hours or even overnight can intensify the flavors even more. The soy sauce adds a savory depth that balances the sweetness of the chili sauce, while the ginger and garlic contribute aromatic notes that elevate the dish.

When marinating, make sure to coat all the chicken pieces evenly. I often use a resealable plastic bag for this process; it ensures the marinade fully envelops the chicken. If you're short on time, even a quick 15-minute soak can still yield tasty results, but do aim for that 30-minute mark for the best flavor.

Cooking Notes

The cooking method is just as important as the marinade. Use a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat for optimal results. If your pan isn't large enough, the chicken may steam rather than sear, leading to a less appealing texture. You’ll want to hear a sizzle when the chicken hits the pan, as this indicates it’s getting that nice golden brown crust.

Keep an eye on your chicken while it cooks; stirring occasionally helps ensure even cooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked. If you notice it cooking too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to prevent burning while still achieving that desirable browning.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken pairs excellently with steamed rice or noodles, which help soak up the lovely sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh green salad to add some crunch and contrast to the dish. You can also serve it in lettuce cups for a fun, hands-on experience, especially for gatherings.

If you're interested in variations, try adding other vegetables like snap peas or carrots for more color and texture. You can also adjust the heat level by adding sliced fresh chilies during cooking or a dash of cayenne pepper in the marinade, depending on your preferences. This dish is all about balancing flavors and making it your own!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken:

For the Chicken Marinade

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced

For Cooking

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned
1 bell pepper, sliced
2 green onions, sliced
Sesame seeds for garnish

Once you have all these ingredients, you're ready to create a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken:

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the pineapple chunks and bell pepper, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy hot with rice or noodles!

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a healthier option, consider replacing chicken breast with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian alternative. Both absorb the marinade flavors well and provide a similar texture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time; tofu may need a bit longer to develop a nice brown crust, while turkey should be cooked until it reaches 165°F.

For those who have dietary restrictions, tamari can be used instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version, and you can experiment with different sweeteners, such as honey or agave, in the marinade if you prefer. Fresh pineapple is fantastic, but pineapple juice can work in a pinch if fresh fruit isn’t available.

Make-Ahead & Storage

One of the best aspects of this recipe is that it can easily be made ahead of time. Marinate the chicken the night before and keep it in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Once cooked, leftover Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep.

If you want to freeze it, you can store the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before reheating. For reheating, I recommend gently warming it in a skillet over low heat to retain its tenderness and prevent it from drying out.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find the dish a bit too sweet for your taste, a splash of rice vinegar can help balance the flavors and add a new layer of acidity. Start with just a teaspoon and adjust to your preference as you stir it into the sizzling mixture. Conversely, if the heat from the chili sauce isn’t pronounced enough, you can mix in some red pepper flakes during cooking for an extra kick.

Additionally, if the sauce seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little chicken broth or water to loosen it up. This way, it can wrap around the chicken and vegetables without overpowering them. Adjusting the consistency to your liking will make a significant impact on how enjoyable the overall dish is.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

→ What can I substitute for sweet chili sauce?

You can create a similar taste using a mix of honey and sriracha.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like snap peas or broccoli.