Name: Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: ½ cup pineapple juice (from a 15-ounce can of canned pineapple chunks, packed in juice, not syrup); ¼ cup reduced sodium chicken broth; 3 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or freshly grated ginger); 1 to 2 garlic cloves, finely minced (or ½ to 1 teaspoon garlic powder, to taste); ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 to 1 ¼ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces; 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste; 3 cups bell peppers, seeded and diced (approximately 1 cup each of red, orange, and yellow peppers, or any mix desired); 2 cloves garlic, finely minced; Reserved pineapple chunks (from the 15-ounce can); Green onions, optional for garnish and to taste; Sesame seeds, optional for garnish and to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 81 reviews

If you’re craving a vibrant dish that bursts with tropical flavors and comes together in a flash, this Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Skillet Recipe is about to become your new weeknight favorite. Tender chicken pieces mingle with colorful bell peppers and juicy pineapple chunks, all enveloped in a sweet and tangy sauce that dances on the palate. Not only is this dish quick and easy, cooked entirely in one skillet, but it also brings a little sunshine to any table, perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several clear glass and white bowls with different ingredients laid out on a white marbled surface. At the top left, there is a glass bowl filled with bright yellow pineapple chunks in juice. Below it, a clear glass bowl holds pale pink raw chicken pieces resting on parchment paper. To the right of these bowls are whole colorful bell peppers: orange, yellow, and red, plus a piece of ginger root. Small bowls are filled with honey-colored sauce, light golden liquid, white powder, and a dark soy sauce. There are also clear small bowls with coarse salt and pepper, red chili flakes, white sesame seeds, and chopped green onions. A whole white garlic bulb is placed near the bottom center. The layout is neat and bright, with each ingredient distinct and colorful. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Skillet Recipe is shining proof that simple ingredients can lead to incredibly bold flavors. Each ingredient plays its part, whether adding sweetness, tang, texture, or that umami kick, coming together to create a balanced and satisfying meal.

½ cup pineapple juice: Provides the foundation of the sauce with natural sweetness and tropical flair, make sure to use juice from canned pineapple packed in juice, not syrup.
¼ cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps balance the sweet elements, opting for reduced sodium lets you control the saltiness.
3 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce: Offers a salty and umami-rich backbone that brightens the sauce beautifully.
3 tablespoons honey: Enhances sweetness and gives the sauce a smooth, sticky texture that clings to the chicken and veggies.
2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Contributes a gentle tang that cuts through the sweetness for a perfect balance.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to a luscious consistency that coats every bite.
1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds warmth and a subtle zing; fresh ginger works wonders if you have it on hand.
1 to 2 garlic cloves, minced: Brings aromatic depth; you can also use garlic powder as a handy alternative.
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Introduces a gentle spice, adjustable to your preferred heat level.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing, imparting a rich flavor and helping to cook the chicken and peppers evenly.
1 to 1¼ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: Diced into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and easy eating.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential seasoning to enhance the dish, plus more to taste.
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle peppery note that complements the sweetness.
3 cups bell peppers: Diced red, orange, and yellow peppers bring vibrant color, crisp texture, and a mild sweetness to the skillet.
2 cloves garlic, minced: For extra aromatic punch when cooking the peppers.
Pineapple chunks (reserved): The star fruity addition that delivers juicy bursts of flavor in every bite.
Green onions (optional): A fresh garnish that adds a mild oniony crunch and bright color.
Sesame seeds (optional): Toasted on top for a nutty flavor and a bit of textural contrast.

How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce and Pineapple

Start by whisking together pineapple juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes in a medium bowl. This sauce is the heart of the dish, marrying sweet, tangy, spicy, and savory into one glorious blend. Don’t forget to set aside the pineapple chunks from the can—they’ll add juicy texture later!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the diced chicken seasoned evenly with salt and pepper. Sauté for about five minutes, flipping and stirring to ensure each piece is cooked through and beautifully browned. When ready, remove the chicken to a plate but keep all those tasty browned bits in the skillet—they’ll infuse the next steps with flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Bell Peppers

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and toss in the diced bell peppers. Sauté for around five minutes until they become crisp-tender, releasing their natural sweetness while maintaining a pleasant crunch. Stir and flip often so they cook evenly without losing their vibrant color.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Give the sauce a quick whisk to redistribute the honey, then pour it over the peppers. Expect some bubbling and steaming—that’s the cornstarch thickening the sauce right before your eyes. Let it simmer for about two minutes while stirring frequently, ensuring it thickens evenly and clings to every piece of pepper.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pineapple

Return the chicken to the skillet and add the reserved pineapple chunks. Toss everything gently to coat in the luscious sauce, cooking for another one to two minutes until the chicken and pineapple are warmed through. Taste, and if you feel like it needs a flavor boost, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of salt, some extra pepper, or a dash more ground ginger or red pepper flakes. This step lets you customize to your liking!

How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Skillet Recipe

The image shows a white speckled pan filled with a colorful dish. The bottom layer is a bright orange-red sauce mixed with diced red and yellow bell peppers. On top of the sauce, there are chunks of cooked white chicken pieces spread on the right side and in the center. On the left side, there are bright yellow pineapple chunks. A wooden spoon rests inside the pan, positioned slightly to the right, stirring through the chicken and pineapple. The pan sits on a white marbled surface with whole red, orange, and yellow bell peppers, green onions, fresh ginger root, garlic bulb, and a small bowl of sesame seeds around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped green onions adds freshness and a pop of vibrant green that brightens the dish. For a nutty crunch and visual appeal, toasted sesame seeds are a perfect finishing touch. These small additions truly elevate the experience and make every bite memorable.

Side Dishes

While the Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Skillet Recipe stands well on its own, pairing it with fluffy white rice, nutrient-packed cauliflower rice, or nutty quinoa helps soak up all that flavorful sauce. Each option complements the skillet with a different texture and mild taste, so choose what suits your mood or pantry.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the chicken and pineapple mixture inside hollowed-out pineapple halves to deliver an eye-catching presentation that feels like a tropical celebration. Another fun idea is to offer various dipping sauces like extra soy sauce, spicy chili sauce, or a creamy coconut dip, encouraging your guests to customize each bite. This dish also works beautifully over a bed of steamed greens or wrapped up in lettuce cups for a lighter, hand-held option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your feast, any leftovers of the Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Skillet Recipe can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to deepen even more overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal.

Freezing

If you want to keep this tropical delight longer, freeze it in a well-sealed container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but do it in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help keep the sauce silky and fresh-tasting.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay juicy, making them a great alternative that works wonderfully with the Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Skillet Recipe.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, just swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy switch.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time to speed up cooking. However, cooking the chicken and combining everything is best done fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe includes red pepper flakes for a gentle warmth that you can adjust or omit altogether. The overall flavor leans more toward sweet and tangy than spicy.

What can I substitute for fresh garlic?

If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder works fine. Use about half a teaspoon to one teaspoon depending on your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend the Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Skillet Recipe enough if you want a quick, colorful, and wonderfully flavorful meal that feels like a mini vacation on your plate. It’s the kind of recipe that delights the family, brightens the dinner table, and leaves you with that satisfying feeling of having whipped up something truly special. Give it a go—you might just find it becoming your new go-to comfort food with an exotic twist!