Garlic Butter Chicken with Pineapple!

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Craving a healthy dinner that's anything but boring? Look no further than this Garlic Butter Chicken with Pineapple recipe! This skillet wonder combines juicy chicken, sweet pineapple chunks, and a savory garlic butter sauce for an explosion of flavor that's sure to tantalize your taste buds. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it's also packed with protein, vitamins, and healthy fats, making it a guilt-free weeknight win. Get ready to whip up a healthy dinner that everyone will love!

Let's Make Amazing Garlic Butter Chicken with Pineapple!

We're about to whip up some seriously delicious chicken that's bursting with juicy flavor and a touch of sweetness. This easy skillet recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying but don't have tons of time.

Preparation time: 10  minutes.    Yield: 2 servings.    Cooking time: 15 minutes

Here's what we'll need:

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips (or grab some chicken tenders for a shortcut!)
• Half a pineapple, peeled, chopped into bite-sized chunks
• 1 tablespoon of butter (because butter makes everything better!)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon of honey for a touch of sweetness
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced (fresh garlic is best!)
• 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
• Chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color (optional)
• Cayenne pepper (optional) - add a pinch for a kick, or use a tablespoon of Sriracha if you like things spicy!
• Red chili pepper flakes (optional) - for an extra fiery touch
• Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste
• Cooked rice, quinoa, or bulgur to serve it all on (we recommend fluffy white rice!)

Now, let's get cooking!

1. First, we'll make a delicious sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, honey, olive oil (one tablespoon for now!), garlic, black pepper, parsley, and your choice of spice (Cayenne pepper, Sriracha, or chili flakes). Set this aside for a bit.
2. Heat up the remaining olive oil (one tablespoon) and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it's hot and sizzling, add the chicken strips in a single layer. Let them cook for about a minute per side, or until they're nicely browned. Adjust the cooking time depending on how thick your chicken is.
3. Almost there! Just before the chicken is fully cooked through, toss in those yummy pineapple chunks and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Now comes the flavorful part! Pour the amazing honey garlic sauce you made earlier into the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes. Stir everything together so the chicken and pineapple get nice and coated. Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
5. Take it off the heat and it's time to eat! Serve this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken with Pineapple over your favorite rice, quinoa, or bulgur. Want to add a little extra something? Sprinkle on some more crushed chili peppers or fresh herbs for a finishing touch.

Enjoy this easy and flavorful chicken recipe that's sure to become a weeknight favorite!

Recipe Variations and Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken with Pineapple:

Chicken Magic:

Chicken Swap: Don't have chicken breasts? No problem! This recipe works great with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time slightly for shrimp, cooking them until they turn pink and opaque.

Spicy Twist: Craving some heat? Add a diced jalapeno pepper along with the pineapple for a delicious kick.

Protein Powerhouse: For an extra protein boost, throw in some cooked and crumbled tofu or tempeh with the pineapple.

Flavor Fiesta:

Veggie Bonanza: Add your favorite chopped veggies like broccoli florets, red bell peppers, or sliced mushrooms in with the pineapple for a more colorful and nutritious dish.

Herb Heaven: Switch up the fresh herbs! Basil, cilantro, or thyme would all be delicious additions to the sauce.

Tropical Twist: Want to really embrace the pineapple vibe? Add a splash of pineapple juice to the sauce for an extra burst of sweetness.

Tips for Success:

Marinating Magic: Marinate your chicken in the leftover honey garlic sauce for 30 minutes before cooking for extra juicy and flavorful chicken.

Don't Crowd the Pan: Cooking the chicken in a single layer ensures even browning. If your pan is crowded, cook the chicken in batches.

Sauce Savior: If your sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.

Leftover Love: This dish reheats well! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Get Creative: Use leftover cooked chicken and pineapple in a stir-fry the next day, or add them to quesadillas for a fun lunch option.

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Pineapple recipe is like a love letter to your taste buds and your body. Here's why:

For Your Taste Buds:

Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory garlic butter and sweet pineapple creates a harmonious dance in your mouth. It's both satisfying and exciting!

Juicy Chicken: The cooking method keeps the chicken tender and moist, a far cry from dry, boring chicken breasts.

Customizable: With the option to add a kick of spice or a tropical twist, you can tailor it to your exact flavor preferences.

For Your Body:

Protein Powerhouse: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which helps you feel full and energized.

Vitamin Boost: Pineapple is packed with Vitamin C, an essential nutrient for a healthy immune system.

Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides healthy fats that contribute to a balanced diet.

Customizable Health: The recipe allows you to add other healthy ingredients like vegetables or whole grains for an extra dose of nutrients.

Overall, this recipe is a winner for both your taste buds and your health. It's a delicious way to fuel your body with good stuff without sacrificing flavor.