Description
Instant Pot Pineapple Chicken is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with the sweet and tangy flavor of pineapple. This easy recipe requires just 5 minutes of prep time and cooks in only 4 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The unique blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering meal that will satisfy the whole family. Whether served over rice, noodles, or as a filling for tacos, this versatile dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (cut into 1–2 inch pieces)
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks (do NOT drain)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup hoisin sauce
- Optional: 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 green onions (sliced)
- Sesame seeds and slivered almonds for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the pineapple by setting aside 1/4 cup of juice from the can.
- In the Instant Pot, combine chicken pieces, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, hoisin sauce, red pepper flakes (if using), brown sugar, and pineapple chunks with juice.
- Close the lid securely and select the Poultry function or Manual setting; cook on High Pressure for 4 minutes.
- Allow a natural release for 5 minutes before releasing any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and stir gently. Combine cornstarch with reserved pineapple juice in a small bowl and whisk until smooth.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the Instant Pot while stirring gently; select Sauté function on LOW to thicken the sauce.
- If desired, add more cornstarch mixed with juice for a thicker sauce.
- Let sit for about 5-7 minutes before serving over rice or noodles and garnishing with green onions, sesame seeds, and slivered almonds.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg