This pineapple chicken recipe is inspired by the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine. I first discovered Chinese food back in my student days, and it quickly became a favorite. From time to time, or on special occasions, I’d visit a wonderful Chinese restaurant in Iași. I’ll never forget another amazing meal I had in a Chinese restaurant in Budapest. The flavors were so new and delightful that we couldn’t stop eating! What I especially love about Chinese food is the unique combination of sweet and spicy flavors in their dishes. And their sauces—especially the sweet and sour ones—are absolutely irresistible.
Now, coming back to our pineapple chicken recipe, I can tell you that it’s incredibly simple to prepare, but at the same time, it’s a truly special dish. Your guests will be delighted, believe me! Let’s get cooking!

Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken Delight

Equipment


Ingredients
1 kg chicken thighs
400 g can of pineapple chunks 1 can, including the juice
50 ml sunflower oil
1/3 tsp salt to taste
1/3 tsp ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the chicken thighs thoroughly and pat them dry. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until golden brown on one side. Flip the chicken over and pour the juice from the canned pineapple into the skillet.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let the chicken simmer over low heat for a few minutes, allowing the juices to infuse the meat with flavor.
- Remove the lid and continue cooking until the pineapple juice reduces, thickens slightly, and the chicken browns nicely. Toward the end, add 2-3 more tablespoons of pineapple juice to enhance the flavor. Cook for another few minutes, letting the chicken absorb the sweet and tangy notes of the sauce.
- Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and top with the pineapple chunks. Serve alongside a steaming bowl of rice. You can opt for store-bought flavored or vegetable-infused rice, or make your own fried rice with eggs and veggies for an extra touch of authenticity.Enjoy!
Notes
Cooking Tips
- For an added kick, sprinkle a pinch of red chili flakes into the skillet while cooking.
- Garnish with freshly chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a visually appealing finish.