Name: Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce: A Tropical Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Thighs (or breasts for a leaner option); 1/4 cup Tamari/Soy Sauce (use coconut aminos for gluten-free); 3 cloves Garlic (fresh preferred); 2 tablespoons Cold, Salted Butter (or olive oil for dairy-free); 2 pieces Chipotle Chilies in Adobo (adjust to your spice preference); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste; 2 tablespoons Honey (can substitute with maple syrup); 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika; 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar; 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme (or less dried thyme); 2 cups Pineapple Chunks (fresh or canned); 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds (for topping); 1 piece Avocado (sliced); 2 cups Rice (jasmine or basmati)

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As I stood in the kitchen, the enticing aroma of smoky chipotle danced through the air, transporting me to a sun-kissed tropical paradise. This is how I discovered the magic of Chipotle Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce—a dish that perfectly marries the warmth of spices with the sweet burst of caramelized pineapple. Not only is this one-pan wonder easy to whip up after a long day, but it’s also a delightful crowd-pleaser for any occasion! Imagine serving a colorful, vibrant meal that requires minimal cleanup, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—great company and even better conversation. Ready to transform your weeknight dinners? Keep scrolling to uncover the secrets behind this luscious recipe!

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Best: Enjoy the ease of a one-pan meal that minimizes cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Tropical Flavor Explosion: Smoky chipotle meets the sweetness of caramelized pineapple, creating a dish that’s bursting with deliciousness.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and flavors.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu, or add extras like black beans for a personalized touch. For more ideas, check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves for a comforting twist!
Healthful Indulgence: At only 410 kcal per serving, this recipe balances protein and healthy fats, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
Quick and Delicious: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe takes the hassle out of dinner preparation, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy your meal.

Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients

For the Chicken

Chicken – The main protein source; use thighs for juiciness or breasts for a leaner option.
Tamari/Soy Sauce – Adds umami flavor and saltiness; swap with coconut aminos for a gluten-free adaptation.
Garlic – Essential for depth of flavor; fresh garlic is preferable to boost aroma.
Cold, Salted Butter – Enhances richness and helps brown the chicken; olive oil is a great dairy-free substitute.

For the Sauce

Chipotle Chilies in Adobo – Infuses the dish with smoky heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
Tomato Paste – Thickens the sauce and adds a rich tomato flavor for this Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce.
Honey – Balances the spice with sweetness; can be substituted with maple syrup for a unique twist.
Sweet Paprika – Brightens the sauce’s color and adds a subtle smoky note to complement the chipotle.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides the acidity needed to balance flavors; it also gives a fruity tang.
Fresh Thyme – Adds an aromatic touch; dried thyme can also work but use less.

For the Pineapple and Garnishing

Pineapple Chunks – Imparts natural sweetness and a tropical vibe to your dish; can use fresh or canned.
Sesame Seeds – Sprinkled on top for a crunchy texture that elevates the presentation.
Avocado – Sliced for creaminess and added nutrients; it’s optional but brings richness.

For Serving

Rice – The perfect base for soaking up the flavorful sauce; jasmine or basmati rice works wonderfully.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is essential for achieving the perfect caramelization on the chicken and pineapple. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and prepare your large sheet pan for easy assembly of your Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Next, arrange your chicken pieces on the prepared sheet pan, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly. If you’re using thighs, place them skin-side up for a crispy finish. This step sets the foundation for a juicy and flavorful main protein in your dish, making it the star of the Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a blender, combine tamari, apple cider vinegar, honey, tomato paste, chipotle chilies in adobo, paprika, fresh thyme, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend the mixture until smooth and well-integrated, about 30 seconds. This smoky and spicy sauce will beautifully envelop the chicken, enhancing the flavors of your Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Pour the blended sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor absorption. Scatter pineapple chunks around the chicken on the sheet pan, adding a tropical touch and sweetness. In this step, you’ll see the vibrant colors come together, signaling a tasty meal is on the way with your Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce.

Step 5: Top with Butter and Sesame Seeds
Slice cold, salted butter and place it on top of the chicken pieces, allowing it to melt and enrich the dish as it cooks. Finish by sprinkling sesame seeds over everything for added texture and visual appeal. The butter will aid in browning and infusing richness in your Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Place the sheet pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken is ready when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. At this stage, your kitchen should be filled with delightful aromas, indicating that your meal is coming together beautifully.

Step 7: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken bakes, mix the mayo, Thai chili sauce, minced garlic, and lime zest in a bowl until well combined. This zesty sauce will provide a creamy and spicy finish to your dish. Set it aside for drizzling once your Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce is plated.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken and pineapple are cooked, carefully plate them over bowls of cooked rice. Drizzle generously with the prepared bang bang sauce and top with sliced avocado for extra creaminess. Your Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce is now ready to be enjoyed, offering a delightful mix of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the sauce for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to soak up all the smoky and tropical flavors. Additionally, you can chop the pineapple and make the bang bang sauce ahead of time, keeping them refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, store the chicken and sauce separately until you’re ready to bake; this prevents the chicken from becoming too soggy. When you’re ready to serve, just bake the marinated chicken as per the recipe instructions, and then drizzle with the prepared bang bang sauce for a quick, satisfying meal!

What to Serve with Chipotle Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce

Elevate your dinner experience with delightful accompaniments that harmonize with this tropical dish, creating a memorable meal.

Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty freshness of cilantro lime rice complements the smoky chicken beautifully, enhancing its tropical notes. This aromatic rice adds both flavor and vibrancy to your plate, making each bite a celebration.
Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn adds a wonderful char and crunch. Their slight sweetness balances the heat from the chipotle, creating a perfect textural contrast that is delightful.
Avocado Salad: Light and creamy, an avocado salad with lime dressing pairs seamlessly with your meal. This refreshing option brings a cool element to the spicy chicken, making each forkful light and uplifting.
Spicy Slaw: A spicy cabbage slaw adds crunch and tang, countering the rich flavors of the chicken. Tossed in a vinegar-based dressing, its crispness offers a refreshing bite that enhances the overall experience.
Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy mango salsa provides an exciting contrast to the savory chicken. The tropical fruitiness enhances the palate while adding a pop of color and brightening the dish.
Pineapple Coconut Smoothie: For a drink, try a pineapple coconut smoothie that echoes the dish’s flavors. Silky and refreshing, it serves as a delightful, palate-cleansing sip alongside your meal.
Lime Sorbet: Cap off your tropical dinner with a light lime sorbet for dessert. Its refreshing citrus notes cleanse the palate, perfectly concluding the flavor journey of your Chipotle Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce.

Expert Tips for Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce

Even Coating: Make sure to evenly coat the chicken with the sauce for the best flavor. Uneven coating may leave some spots bland.
Watch the Clock: Monitor the baking time closely. Remove the chicken as soon as it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid drying it out.
Pineapple Sweetness: If using fresh pineapple, opt for a ripe one for maximum sweetness. Canned pineapple works, but check for added sugars.
Batch Bang Bang: Prepare the bang bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It can last up to a week, making meal prep easier.
Customize Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chipotle chilies to control the heat in your Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce, catering to your palate.
Upgrade the Rice: Consider cooking jasmine or cilantro lime rice as a delightful accompaniment, enhancing the tropical experience of your dish.

How to Store and Freeze Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the oven to preserve the texture. If using the microwave, cover the dish to keep it moist while warming.

Tip: Always ensure the chicken is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving for safe consumption.

Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce Variations

Feel free to mix things up and make this delicious dish fit your taste preferences or dietary needs!

Seafood Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a delightful seafood twist. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for perfectly tender shrimp.
Tofu Treat: Use firm tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian option. Marinate the tofu for extra flavor before baking to enhance the final dish.
Flavor Boost: Add black beans or corn to the mix for extra texture and heartiness. These ingredients not only enrich the dish but also add vibrant colors!
Tropical Rice: Switch out regular rice for coconut rice. The subtle sweetness will complement the tropical theme of your Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce beautifully.
Extra Heat: For spice lovers, toss in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to intensify the dish’s heat.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh cilantro or basil for added aromatics and a fresh taste. These herbs elevate the dish and pair wonderfully with the tropical flavors.
Creamy Variation: Drizzle with a bit of coconut cream just before serving for an indulgent, creamy finish.
Chunky Fresh Salsa: Serve with a fresh mango salsa for an invigorating twist. Chop up mango, red onion, jalapeños, and cilantro for a zesty topping.

With these variations, your meals can go from simple weeknight dinners to exciting culinary adventures! If you’re exploring more flavor profiles, you might love the tangy notes in my Herb Roasted Chicken or the spicy goodness of Fiery Chicken Ramen. Happy cooking!

Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best pineapple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Opt for a pineapple that smells sweet at the base and has a vibrant, golden color. If you see any dark spots all over, that indicates overripeness. For convenience, you can use canned pineapple, but make sure to choose one packed in juice or water rather than syrup for a healthier option.

What’s the best way to store leftovers from Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce?
To maintain freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I often use glass containers as they help prevent odors from mingling. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop or in the oven at a low temperature to keep the chicken juicy and delicious.

Can I freeze Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce?
Yes, you can! Freeze the chicken in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To freeze, place the cooled chicken and sauce in your container, pressing out excess air to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What if my chicken is dry after baking?
Very! An overcooked chicken can be dry, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on the cooking time. If you find your chicken is dry, consider marinating it in some reserved bang bang sauce or serving it with a drizzle of additional sauce to infuse moisture and flavor.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace the soy sauce with with tamari or coconut aminos. Both are excellent alternatives that still provide that umami flavor without the gluten.

Can I make the bang bang sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can! I often prepare my bang bang sauce a day in advance. Store it in the fridge for up to a week. When ready to use, just give it a good stir before drizzling it over your Pineapple Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce for an extra zesty touch.