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When it comes to creating a dish that tantalizes the taste buds, few combinations can rival the allure of sweet and spicy flavors. Among the many culinary creations that showcase this perfect pair, Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Chicken stands out as a vibrant and delicious option. This dish marries tender chicken with the tropical sweetness of pineapple and a kick of heat, resulting in a meal that is as flavorful as it is visually appealing. With its balance of flavors and textures, Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Chicken is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Chicken

Savor the vibrant flavors of Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Chicken, a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweetness and heat. This recipe features tender chicken marinated in a delicious blend of soy sauce, honey, and sriracha, combined with fresh pineapple, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic garlic and ginger. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it's both nutritious and visually appealing. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering meal!
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Ingredients
  

1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs, chopped into bite-sized pieces

1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (canned pineapple can be used if drained)

1/2 cup bell peppers (a mix of red and green), diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce

3 tablespoons honey or agave syrup

1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (add more or less to suit your taste)

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 teaspoon sesame oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Cooked jasmine rice or quinoa (for serving)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey or agave syrup, sriracha sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and ginger until well combined. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, though marinating for 1-2 hours enhances the flavors even more.

    Prepare Vegetables: While the chicken is marinating, take the time to chop the bell peppers and red onion into small pieces. Set them aside for later use to allow the flavors to blend.

      Cooking the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Remove the chicken from the marinade (set aside the marinade for later use) and carefully add it to the hot skillet. Sauté the chicken for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it is nicely browned and cooked through.

        Add Vegetables and Pineapple: Once the chicken is fully cooked, add the diced bell peppers, red onion, and fresh pineapple chunks to the skillet. Stir-fry the mixture for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp and vibrant in color.

          Incorporate the Marinade: Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as necessary to enhance the flavor.

            Serve: Spoon generous portions of the Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Chicken over bowls of cooked jasmine rice or quinoa. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro on top for a refreshing touch.

              Enjoy: Serve the dish hot and relish the delightful sweet and spicy flavors with your family and friends!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  - Prep Time: 25 minutes

                    - Total Time: 1 hour (including marination)

                      - Servings: 4 servings

                        Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, consider serving the chicken in vibrant bowls and garnish with extra cilantro and a few pineapple chunks for added color and interest.