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Spicy Pineapple Chicken Meal Prep Recipe

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4.2 from 8 reviews

This Spicy Pineapple Chicken Meal Prep is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for a quick, healthy lunch or dinner. Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a tangy blend of soy sauce, pineapple juice, chili sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes, then cooked with fresh jalapeño, onion, and sweet pineapple chunks for a delightful balance of heat and sweetness. Ideal for meal prepping, it pairs wonderfully with rice and keeps well refrigerated for up to three days.

Ingredients

Marinade

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 4 tbsp pineapple juice (from can)
  • 1 tbsp chili sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken thighs (skinless & boneless, cubed)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 white onion (sliced)
  • 1 jalapeño (sliced)
  • 14-ounce can pineapple chunks (drained)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp green onion (sliced, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: Drain the pineapple chunks, reserving the juice. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, pineapple juice, chili sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes to create the flavorful marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Cube the skinless, boneless chicken thighs and add them to the marinade. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated, then cover and refrigerate for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced white onion and jalapeño rings, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until they start to soften and release their flavors.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken along with the marinade into the skillet. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and slightly caramelized.
  5. Add Pineapple and Season: Stir in the drained pineapple chunks and sprinkle with salt. Continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the sweetness of the pineapple to meld with the spicy chicken.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Finish by sprinkling the sliced green onions over the dish. Serve hot, ideally with your choice of rice. This dish keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Notes

  • For milder heat, reduce or omit the jalapeño and red pepper flakes.
  • Use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option.
  • Serve with steamed white, brown rice, or quinoa for a complete meal.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to preserve moisture and flavor.