Sweet and Savory Asian-Inspired Dish (Printable Format)

A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with juicy chicken, fresh pineapple, and a sticky honey garlic sauce. Quick to prepare and incredibly versatile!

# What You'll Gather:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
02 - 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
03 - 1/4 cup honey
04 - 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low-sodium)
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch
07 - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
08 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ Optional Add-ons

09 - 1 teaspoon grated ginger
10 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
11 - Chopped green onions (for garnish)
12 - Sesame seeds (for garnish)

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and ginger (if using). Whisk until well mixed. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they're fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for best results.
02 - While the chicken marinates, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the remaining marinade with cornstarch. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until it bubbles and thickens (about 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
03 - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken (discard excess marinade), and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
04 - Once the chicken is cooked, add the pineapple chunks to the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pineapple to warm and the flavors to meld together.
05 - Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately while hot, ideally over rice or with your favorite side dish.

# Important Tips:

01 - Fresh pineapple provides the best flavor, but drained canned pineapple works well as a substitute.
02 - For extra flavor, poke holes in the chicken with a fork before marinating.
03 - This dish can be made spicier by adding more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha.
04 - For a healthier version, use chicken breasts instead of thighs and reduce the honey slightly.
05 - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.