Dinner

Sticky Pineapple Chicken Recipe

ByElara Stone February 21, 2026February 21, 2026

Introduction

Sticky Pineapple Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels special and satisfying.

A black bowl filled with two main layers: the bottom layer is white rice with a soft, fluffy texture, and the top layer has chunks of glossy, caramel-colored chicken mixed with yellow pineapple pieces, all coated in a shiny, thick sauce with a few green cilantro leaves and white sesame seeds sprinkled on top. A wooden spoon rests on the edge of the bowl, and part of a white marbled surface is visible underneath, along with a brown bowl filled with white rice to the right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs. Chicken Breast (cut into bite-size pieces)
1/2 to 1 teaspoon Salt
1 teaspoon Pepper
1 cup Pineapple Juice
1/4 cup Soy Sauce
1/3 cup Brown Sugar
1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce
1 teaspoon Fresh Ginger (or 1/4 teaspoon Dried Ginger)
1 1/2 teaspoon Cornstarch
1 1/2 cups Fresh Pineapple (sliced)

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces and pat dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, or until cooked through and no longer pink.
Step 2: While the chicken cooks, prepare the sticky pineapple sauce. In a small pot, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, sweet chili sauce, cornstarch, and ginger. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: When the chicken is done, pour the sauce over it in the skillet and toss well to coat. Fold in the fresh pineapple slices and gently stir to combine. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro and cashews for extra flavor and crunch.

Tips & Variations

For a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Swap the chicken breast for thighs if you prefer juicier meat.
Serve over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple chunks drained well can be used.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid reheating multiple times to keep the chicken tender and the sauce flavorful.