FREE DINNER EBOOK! Get your copy!

Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skillet Easy Weeknight Meal

by on January 4, 2025

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for an easy weeknight meal that brings the taste of the tropics to your kitchen? Look no further! My Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skillet is a one-pan dish packed with flavor and color. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delightful dinner that your family will love. Let’s dive into this quick recipe that makes every evening feel like a vacation!

- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 small onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 red bell pepper, sliced - 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced - 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (or canned, drained) - 1/2 cup coconut milk - 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated When I make Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skillet, I focus on fresh ingredients. The chicken adds protein and heartiness to the dish. I prefer boneless and skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking. These pieces become tender and juicy when cooked right. Olive oil is my go-to for sautéing. It adds a lovely flavor and helps prevent sticking. I always use a small onion, diced finely, to build a great base. Garlic and ginger follow, bringing warmth and zest to the dish. Bell peppers give the meal a pop of color and crunch. I like using both red and yellow peppers. They also add sweetness, balancing the dish. Fresh pineapple is a must; it gives a tropical taste. If fresh isn't an option, canned works in a pinch. Coconut milk adds creaminess and richness. It blends well with the soy sauce, enhancing the flavor profile. Together, these ingredients create a delightful and easy weeknight meal. - Salt and pepper - 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish) - Fresh cilantro leaves I always season with salt and pepper. This step is key for bringing out the flavors. I like to add green onions as a garnish. Their bright taste adds freshness to the dish. Fresh cilantro leaves give a nice herbal touch. They make the dish look pretty too. These simple garnishes add extra flavor and color. Enjoy your Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skillet hot and fresh! {{ingredient_image_1}} To brown the chicken, heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until they turn golden brown and cook through. This browning adds flavor to your dish. Now, let’s sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger. In the same skillet, add diced onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes until soft. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1 more minute. This step makes your kitchen smell amazing! Next, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers. Sauté them for 4-5 minutes until they start to soften. Finally, add the diced pineapple and stir. Cook everything for an extra 2 minutes to blend the flavors. Pour in the coconut milk and soy sauce. Stir well to mix all the ingredients. This combination gives a rich, creamy taste. Bring it to a gentle simmer. This means you should see small bubbles. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes. After that, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together and heat for another 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Enjoy your Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skillet! To get the best chicken texture, start with bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Use medium-high heat to quickly brown the chicken. It keeps the juices inside. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes. Ensure it's golden on all sides. After cooking, set the chicken aside to rest. This prevents it from drying out. For sautéing vegetables, heat your skillet before adding oil. I like to use olive oil for flavor. Add onions first, cooking for 2-3 minutes. Once they soften, add garlic and ginger. Cook for one more minute to wake up the flavors. Next, add your bell peppers. Sauté them for 4-5 minutes. You want them tender but still bright. To make your dish even better, think about extra spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add heat. A dash of curry powder gives it a warm flavor. You could also use fresh herbs like basil. They bring a fresh taste that shines. Always adjust the seasoning to your liking. Start with salt and pepper, but taste as you go. If it lacks flavor, add more soy sauce or coconut milk. A little sweetness from the pineapple can balance saltiness. Trust your taste buds; they guide you to the best flavor! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh pineapple and vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can add a bit of honey or brown sugar to balance the flavors of the pineapple and coconut milk. Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking. Serve with Rice: This dish pairs perfectly with jasmine rice or coconut rice to soak up the delicious sauce. {{image_2}} You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice bite. Cut shrimp into medium pieces. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until pink. Tofu is great for a meatless option. Use firm tofu, drain, and press it for better texture. Cut tofu into cubes and brown in oil. Cook it for about 5-6 minutes until golden. Both choices work well with the sweet pineapple and creamy coconut. Want to mix it up? Try adding mango or papaya. These fruits bring more sweetness and flavor. Just dice them and add with the pineapple. You can also use different coconut milk types. Light coconut milk lowers fat but keeps flavor. Or try flavored coconut milk for a twist. Each fruit and milk choice gives a unique taste to the dish. If you need gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari has a similar taste but is gluten-free. For low-carb diets, skip the pineapple or use less. You can add more veggies like zucchini or broccoli instead. These options keep the meal tasty without extra carbs. Enjoy a delicious meal that fits your needs! To keep your Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skillet fresh, store it in the fridge. First, let it cool down. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors intact. You can also use a glass container or a plastic one with a tight lid. Make sure to consume leftovers within three to four days for the best taste. When it's time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating them right is key. The best method is to use a skillet over medium heat. This helps keep the chicken juicy and the veggies crisp. Stir it often to heat evenly. If you prefer the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish. Cover it to trap steam and heat it in short bursts. Check often to avoid overcooking. This way, you keep the dish delicious and flavorful! Yes, you can use frozen chicken or vegetables. If using frozen chicken, cut it into smaller pieces. This helps it cook evenly. Start by cooking the chicken for a few extra minutes. You want to ensure it reaches 165°F. For frozen vegetables, add them after the onions and garlic. Cook until they are tender. This method keeps the dish tasty and fresh. If you lack coconut milk, don't worry. You can use milk or almond milk as substitutes. They will change the flavor, but the dish will still be good. You can also mix in some shredded coconut for a tropical taste. If you want a creamier texture, add a little cream cheese. This keeps the dish rich and flavorful. To make this dish vegetarian, swap out the chicken for tofu or chickpeas. You can cube firm tofu and cook it like the chicken. This gives a nice texture. If using chickpeas, drain and rinse them before adding to the skillet. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for more flavor. You can also add more veggies for a colorful meal. In this blog post, I covered a tasty chicken dish with simple steps. You learned about the essential ingredients, cooking techniques, and flavor combinations. I also shared tips for variations, storage, and answers to common questions. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, these ideas help you create a delicious meal. Keep exploring new flavors and techniques to make your cooking fun and rewarding. Enjoy your time in the kitchen!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Bright Flavors: This dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory chicken and fresh vegetables, creating a delightful tropical flavor profile.
  2. Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of only 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
  3. Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein, fresh produce, and coconut milk, this skillet meal is as nutritious as it is delicious.
  4. Customizable: You can easily swap out vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile dish.

Ingredients

List of Essential Ingredients

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 small onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 red bell pepper, sliced

– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

– 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (or canned, drained)

– 1/2 cup coconut milk

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

When I make Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skillet, I focus on fresh ingredients. The chicken adds protein and heartiness to the dish. I prefer boneless and skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking. These pieces become tender and juicy when cooked right.

Olive oil is my go-to for sautéing. It adds a lovely flavor and helps prevent sticking. I always use a small onion, diced finely, to build a great base. Garlic and ginger follow, bringing warmth and zest to the dish.

Bell peppers give the meal a pop of color and crunch. I like using both red and yellow peppers. They also add sweetness, balancing the dish. Fresh pineapple is a must; it gives a tropical taste. If fresh isn’t an option, canned works in a pinch.

Coconut milk adds creaminess and richness. It blends well with the soy sauce, enhancing the flavor profile. Together, these ingredients create a delightful and easy weeknight meal.

Seasonings and Garnishes

– Salt and pepper

– 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

– Fresh cilantro leaves

I always season with salt and pepper. This step is key for bringing out the flavors. I like to add green onions as a garnish. Their bright taste adds freshness to the dish.

Fresh cilantro leaves give a nice herbal touch. They make the dish look pretty too. These simple garnishes add extra flavor and color. Enjoy your Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skillet hot and fresh!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Chicken

To brown the chicken, heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until they turn golden brown and cook through. This browning adds flavor to your dish.

Sautéing Vegetables

Now, let’s sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger. In the same skillet, add diced onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes until soft. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1 more minute. This step makes your kitchen smell amazing!

Next, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers. Sauté them for 4-5 minutes until they start to soften. Finally, add the diced pineapple and stir. Cook everything for an extra 2 minutes to blend the flavors.

Combining Flavors

Pour in the coconut milk and soy sauce. Stir well to mix all the ingredients. This combination gives a rich, creamy taste. Bring it to a gentle simmer. This means you should see small bubbles. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes.

After that, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together and heat for another 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Enjoy your Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skillet!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Techniques

To get the best chicken texture, start with bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Use medium-high heat to quickly brown the chicken. It keeps the juices inside. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes. Ensure it’s golden on all sides. After cooking, set the chicken aside to rest. This prevents it from drying out.

For sautéing vegetables, heat your skillet before adding oil. I like to use olive oil for flavor. Add onions first, cooking for 2-3 minutes. Once they soften, add garlic and ginger. Cook for one more minute to wake up the flavors. Next, add your bell peppers. Sauté them for 4-5 minutes. You want them tender but still bright.

Flavor Enhancements

To make your dish even better, think about extra spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add heat. A dash of curry powder gives it a warm flavor. You could also use fresh herbs like basil. They bring a fresh taste that shines.

Always adjust the seasoning to your liking. Start with salt and pepper, but taste as you go. If it lacks flavor, add more soy sauce or coconut milk. A little sweetness from the pineapple can balance saltiness. Trust your taste buds; they guide you to the best flavor!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh pineapple and vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
  2. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can add a bit of honey or brown sugar to balance the flavors of the pineapple and coconut milk.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking.
  4. Serve with Rice: This dish pairs perfectly with jasmine rice or coconut rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Variations

Alternative Proteins

You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice bite. Cut shrimp into medium pieces. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until pink. Tofu is great for a meatless option. Use firm tofu, drain, and press it for better texture. Cut tofu into cubes and brown in oil. Cook it for about 5-6 minutes until golden. Both choices work well with the sweet pineapple and creamy coconut.

Different Tropical Elements

Want to mix it up? Try adding mango or papaya. These fruits bring more sweetness and flavor. Just dice them and add with the pineapple. You can also use different coconut milk types. Light coconut milk lowers fat but keeps flavor. Or try flavored coconut milk for a twist. Each fruit and milk choice gives a unique taste to the dish.

Dietary Modifications

If you need gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari has a similar taste but is gluten-free. For low-carb diets, skip the pineapple or use less. You can add more veggies like zucchini or broccoli instead. These options keep the meal tasty without extra carbs. Enjoy a delicious meal that fits your needs!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skillet fresh, store it in the fridge. First, let it cool down. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors intact. You can also use a glass container or a plastic one with a tight lid. Make sure to consume leftovers within three to four days for the best taste.

Reheating Tips

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating them right is key. The best method is to use a skillet over medium heat. This helps keep the chicken juicy and the veggies crisp. Stir it often to heat evenly. If you prefer the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish. Cover it to trap steam and heat it in short bursts. Check often to avoid overcooking. This way, you keep the dish delicious and flavorful!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken or vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken or vegetables. If using frozen chicken, cut it into smaller pieces. This helps it cook evenly. Start by cooking the chicken for a few extra minutes. You want to ensure it reaches 165°F. For frozen vegetables, add them after the onions and garlic. Cook until they are tender. This method keeps the dish tasty and fresh.

What if I don’t have coconut milk?

If you lack coconut milk, don’t worry. You can use milk or almond milk as substitutes. They will change the flavor, but the dish will still be good. You can also mix in some shredded coconut for a tropical taste. If you want a creamier texture, add a little cream cheese. This keeps the dish rich and flavorful.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, swap out the chicken for tofu or chickpeas. You can cube firm tofu and cook it like the chicken. This gives a nice texture. If using chickpeas, drain and rinse them before adding to the skillet. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for more flavor. You can also add more veggies for a colorful meal.

In this blog post, I covered a tasty chicken dish with simple steps. You learned about the essential ingredients, cooking techniques, and flavor combinations. I also shared tips for variations, storage, and answers to common questions. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, these ideas help you create a delicious meal. Keep exploring new flavors and techniques to make your cooking fun and rewarding. Enjoy your time in the kitche

- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 small onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 red bell pepper, sliced - 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced - 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (or canned, drained) - 1/2 cup coconut milk - 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated When I make Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skillet, I focus on fresh ingredients. The chicken adds protein and heartiness to the dish. I prefer boneless and skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking. These pieces become tender and juicy when cooked right. Olive oil is my go-to for sautéing. It adds a lovely flavor and helps prevent sticking. I always use a small onion, diced finely, to build a great base. Garlic and ginger follow, bringing warmth and zest to the dish. Bell peppers give the meal a pop of color and crunch. I like using both red and yellow peppers. They also add sweetness, balancing the dish. Fresh pineapple is a must; it gives a tropical taste. If fresh isn't an option, canned works in a pinch. Coconut milk adds creaminess and richness. It blends well with the soy sauce, enhancing the flavor profile. Together, these ingredients create a delightful and easy weeknight meal. - Salt and pepper - 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish) - Fresh cilantro leaves I always season with salt and pepper. This step is key for bringing out the flavors. I like to add green onions as a garnish. Their bright taste adds freshness to the dish. Fresh cilantro leaves give a nice herbal touch. They make the dish look pretty too. These simple garnishes add extra flavor and color. Enjoy your Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skillet hot and fresh! {{ingredient_image_1}} To brown the chicken, heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until they turn golden brown and cook through. This browning adds flavor to your dish. Now, let’s sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger. In the same skillet, add diced onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes until soft. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1 more minute. This step makes your kitchen smell amazing! Next, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers. Sauté them for 4-5 minutes until they start to soften. Finally, add the diced pineapple and stir. Cook everything for an extra 2 minutes to blend the flavors. Pour in the coconut milk and soy sauce. Stir well to mix all the ingredients. This combination gives a rich, creamy taste. Bring it to a gentle simmer. This means you should see small bubbles. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes. After that, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together and heat for another 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Enjoy your Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skillet! To get the best chicken texture, start with bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Use medium-high heat to quickly brown the chicken. It keeps the juices inside. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes. Ensure it's golden on all sides. After cooking, set the chicken aside to rest. This prevents it from drying out. For sautéing vegetables, heat your skillet before adding oil. I like to use olive oil for flavor. Add onions first, cooking for 2-3 minutes. Once they soften, add garlic and ginger. Cook for one more minute to wake up the flavors. Next, add your bell peppers. Sauté them for 4-5 minutes. You want them tender but still bright. To make your dish even better, think about extra spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add heat. A dash of curry powder gives it a warm flavor. You could also use fresh herbs like basil. They bring a fresh taste that shines. Always adjust the seasoning to your liking. Start with salt and pepper, but taste as you go. If it lacks flavor, add more soy sauce or coconut milk. A little sweetness from the pineapple can balance saltiness. Trust your taste buds; they guide you to the best flavor! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh pineapple and vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can add a bit of honey or brown sugar to balance the flavors of the pineapple and coconut milk. Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking. Serve with Rice: This dish pairs perfectly with jasmine rice or coconut rice to soak up the delicious sauce. {{image_2}} You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice bite. Cut shrimp into medium pieces. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until pink. Tofu is great for a meatless option. Use firm tofu, drain, and press it for better texture. Cut tofu into cubes and brown in oil. Cook it for about 5-6 minutes until golden. Both choices work well with the sweet pineapple and creamy coconut. Want to mix it up? Try adding mango or papaya. These fruits bring more sweetness and flavor. Just dice them and add with the pineapple. You can also use different coconut milk types. Light coconut milk lowers fat but keeps flavor. Or try flavored coconut milk for a twist. Each fruit and milk choice gives a unique taste to the dish. If you need gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari has a similar taste but is gluten-free. For low-carb diets, skip the pineapple or use less. You can add more veggies like zucchini or broccoli instead. These options keep the meal tasty without extra carbs. Enjoy a delicious meal that fits your needs! To keep your Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skillet fresh, store it in the fridge. First, let it cool down. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors intact. You can also use a glass container or a plastic one with a tight lid. Make sure to consume leftovers within three to four days for the best taste. When it's time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating them right is key. The best method is to use a skillet over medium heat. This helps keep the chicken juicy and the veggies crisp. Stir it often to heat evenly. If you prefer the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish. Cover it to trap steam and heat it in short bursts. Check often to avoid overcooking. This way, you keep the dish delicious and flavorful! Yes, you can use frozen chicken or vegetables. If using frozen chicken, cut it into smaller pieces. This helps it cook evenly. Start by cooking the chicken for a few extra minutes. You want to ensure it reaches 165°F. For frozen vegetables, add them after the onions and garlic. Cook until they are tender. This method keeps the dish tasty and fresh. If you lack coconut milk, don't worry. You can use milk or almond milk as substitutes. They will change the flavor, but the dish will still be good. You can also mix in some shredded coconut for a tropical taste. If you want a creamier texture, add a little cream cheese. This keeps the dish rich and flavorful. To make this dish vegetarian, swap out the chicken for tofu or chickpeas. You can cube firm tofu and cook it like the chicken. This gives a nice texture. If using chickpeas, drain and rinse them before adding to the skillet. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for more flavor. You can also add more veggies for a colorful meal. In this blog post, I covered a tasty chicken dish with simple steps. You learned about the essential ingredients, cooking techniques, and flavor combinations. I also shared tips for variations, storage, and answers to common questions. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, these ideas help you create a delicious meal. Keep exploring new flavors and techniques to make your cooking fun and rewarding. Enjoy your time in the kitchen!

Tropical Pineapple Chicken Skillet

A delicious and vibrant chicken skillet dish with tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Tropical
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 piece red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 piece yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (or canned, drained)
  • 1 2 coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 2 pieces green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • to taste fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for 1 more minute, until fragrant.
  • Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften.
  • Once the peppers are ready, add the diced pineapple to the skillet and stir to combine. Allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  • Pour in the coconut milk and soy sauce, stirring to mix all the ingredients. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together. Heat through for an additional 2 minutes. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
  • Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro leaves for added flavor and color.

Notes

Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor, but canned works in a pinch.
Keyword chicken, coconut, pineapple, skillet, tropical

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?