Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken

When you crave bold, sweet, and savory flavors all in one bite, this Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Pineapple Skillet delivers exactly that. Tender chicken thighs are seared to golden perfection, then smothered in a luscious honey garlic glaze that clings to every piece. Sweet pineapple chunks and vibrant bell peppers add a tropical twist, while the sticky sauce brings everything together in a harmony of textures and tastes. This one-pan wonder is proof that weeknight dinners can be both effortless and unforgettable.

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The magic of this dish lies in the sauce—a simple combination of honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger that transforms into a sticky, caramelized coating as it simmers. The cornstarch-dusted chicken creates a light crust that helps the glaze adhere beautifully, while the pineapple and peppers soften just enough to release their natural sweetness without losing their bite. It's a fusion of Asian-inspired flavors that feels both exotic and comforting, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 green onions, sliced
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat chicken thighs dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Dust lightly with cornstarch, shaking off excess.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sriracha (if using). Set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove to a plate.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables and Pineapple

In the same skillet, add bell peppers and pineapple. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Simmer with Sauce

Return chicken to the skillet. Pour sauce over all ingredients. Reduce heat to medium, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, turning chicken once, until cooked through and sauce is thickened.

Step 6: Create the Glaze

Uncover, cook 2–3 more minutes if needed to reduce sauce to a sticky glaze.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice or quinoa.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, make sure to pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning—this helps the cornstarch adhere properly and creates a better sear. Don't crowd the skillet when searing the chicken; work in batches if necessary to achieve that beautiful golden crust. When whisking the sauce, ensure the honey is fully incorporated with the soy sauce and vinegar for a smooth, even glaze. Fresh ginger makes a noticeable difference in flavor compared to dried, so grate it finely for maximum impact. If your sauce isn't thickening enough during the final simmer, let it cook uncovered for an extra minute or two, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences and what's available in your kitchen. Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if preferred, but reduce the cooking time slightly as breasts cook faster and can dry out. For extra vegetables, add snap peas, broccoli florets, or sliced mushrooms along with the bell peppers. If you want to make this gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce. For a spicier kick, increase the sriracha or add red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with other fruits—mango chunks or peach slices work beautifully in place of pineapple. For a lower-sugar version, reduce the honey to 1/4 cup and add a splash more rice vinegar to balance the flavors.

Serviervorschläge

This vibrant skillet dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy jasmine rice or nutty quinoa, which soak up the delicious sticky glaze. For a lighter option, serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside steamed bok choy. A crisp white wine like Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc complements the sweet and tangy flavors perfectly. For a complete meal, add a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil, or serve with steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt. The colorful presentation makes it ideal for serving family-style directly from the skillet, garnished generously with green onions and sesame seeds for an impressive finish.

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Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or planning a special dinner, this Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Pineapple Skillet brings restaurant-quality flavor to your table with minimal effort. The combination of juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and that irresistible sticky glaze creates a meal that's as satisfying to make as it is to eat. With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and simple one-pan preparation, this dish is destined to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Serve it with your favorite sides, gather around the table, and enjoy the delicious fusion of sweet, savory, and tropical goodness.

Recipe FAQ

→ What cut of chicken works best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness and ability to stay juicy during cooking.

→ Can I substitute the pineapple with other fruits?

Yes, mango or peaches can provide a similar sweet and tangy flavor while complementing the sauce.

→ How can I make the sauce spicier?

Adding more chili garlic sauce or sriracha will bring additional heat to balance the sweetness.

→ Is it necessary to use cornstarch on the chicken?

The cornstarch helps create a slightly crispy exterior and thickens the sauce for a glossy finish.

→ What side dishes pair well with this skillet meal?

Steamed jasmine rice or quinoa both soak up the flavorful sauce while providing a light, complementary base.

→ Can this be made gluten-free?

Replacing soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy alternative ensures the dish remains gluten-free.