Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner into a mouthwatering tropical adventure that'll transport your taste buds to a Hawaiian paradise! This Instant Pot Polynesian Pineapple Chicken is not just a meal – it's a quick, easy, and absolutely irresistible culinary journey that combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in just 30 minutes. Imagine tender chicken pieces bathed in a luscious sauce, studded with juicy pineapple chunks and vibrant bell peppers that will make your family think you've been secretly training as a gourmet chef!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Polynesian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Slice the bell pepper into thin strips and chop the green onions. Mince the garlic and ginger.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir well until the brown sugar is dissolved and the mixture is uniform.
- Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the sauce mixture, ensuring the chicken is well coated. Let it marinate for about 5 minutes while you prepare the Instant Pot.
- Turn on your Instant Pot and select the 'Sauté' function. Once it's hot, add the marinated chicken along with the sauce to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the chicken is browned.
- Next, add the sliced bell pepper and pineapple chunks to the pot. Stir everything together to combine.
- Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to 'Sealing'. Select the 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' function and set the cooking time for 10 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to 'Venting' to release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and give the chicken a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can turn the Instant Pot back to 'Sauté' and let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce.
- To serve, spoon the Polynesian Pineapple Chicken over rice or quinoa. Garnish with chopped green onions for added flavor and color.
- Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Polynesian Pineapple Chicken!
Tips
- For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken a bit longer if you have time – even 15-20 minutes can intensify the taste.
- Use fresh pineapple if possible for the brightest, most authentic flavor.
- Make sure to cut chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Don't skip the natural pressure release – it helps keep the chicken incredibly tender.
- If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir in during the final simmering stage.
- This dish is perfect served over white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and often taste even better the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 208kcal
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
