Busy weeknights just got a whole lot tastier with our roundup of 12 Delicious Pineapple Chicken Tenders Recipes! Whether you’re craving something sweet and tangy or a quick, comforting meal, these recipes are sure to delight. Perfect for home cooks looking to spice up their dinner routine, each dish promises a burst of flavor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Dive in and discover your new favorite tonight!
Honey Glazed Pineapple Chicken Tenders
Zesty and zippy, this dish is a tropical twist on your usual chicken tenders that’ll have your taste buds doing the hula! Perfect for when you’re craving something sweet, savory, and just a tad bit fancy without the fuss.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders – 1 lb
- Pineapple juice – ½ cup
- Honey – ¼ cup
- Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
- Cornstarch – 1 tbsp
- Vegetable oil – 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, and garlic powder to create your marinade. Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Place chicken tenders in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let them soak up the flavors for at least 15 minutes—longer if you’re not in a rush.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off, and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Tip: Don’t crowd the pan to get that perfect sear.
- Transfer seared chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Pour remaining marinade into the skillet, bring to a simmer, and whisk in cornstarch to thicken into a glaze—about 2 minutes. Tip: Keep stirring to avoid lumps.
- Brush glaze over chicken tenders and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Velvety glaze clings to each tender, creating a sticky-sweet exterior with a juicy, flavorful bite inside. Serve over a bed of rice with extra glaze drizzled on top, or chop them up for a next-level salad topper that’ll steal the show.
Spicy Pineapple Chicken Tenders
Oh boy, are you in for a treat that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance! These Spicy Pineapple Chicken Tenders are the perfect combo of sweet, spicy, and everything nice, guaranteed to spice up your dinner routine without a fuss.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders – 1 lb
- Pineapple juice – ½ cup
- Sriracha – 2 tbsp
- Honey – 1 tbsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F because we’re baking these bad boys to perfection.
- In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, sriracha, honey, and salt. Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Add chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring each piece is lovingly coated. Let them sit for 10 minutes – patience is a virtue, especially in marinading.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken tenders, saving the marinade for later. Sear each side for 2 minutes until golden. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan, or you’ll steam the chicken instead of searing it.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Tip: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature – no one likes undercooked chicken.
- While the chicken bakes, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Remove chicken from the oven and brush with the reduced marinade. Serve immediately.
How about that? These tenders are juicy on the inside with a sticky, spicy-sweet glaze that’s downright addictive. Serve them over a bed of rice with extra pineapple chunks for a tropical twist that’ll transport you straight to flavor town.
BBQ Pineapple Chicken Tenders
Ever had one of those days where you’re craving something sweet, savory, and downright delicious? Well, buckle up, because these BBQ Pineapple Chicken Tenders are about to take your taste buds on a joyride they won’t forget!
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders – 1 lb
- BBQ sauce – 1 cup
- Pineapple juice – ½ cup
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F – because good things come to those who bake (and wait).
- In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, garlic powder, and salt until it’s as smooth as your dance moves.
- Place the chicken tenders in a baking dish and pour the BBQ-pineapple mixture over them, ensuring each tender is coated like it’s wearing a tiny flavor jacket.
- Bake for 25 minutes, then flip each tender with the care of a pancake artist to ensure even cooking.
- Bake for another 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F – safety first, folks!
- For a caramelized finish, broil on high for 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to avoid a BBQ tragedy.
These tenders come out juicy with a sticky-sweet glaze that’s got just the right amount of tang. Serve them over rice for a tropical twist or chop them up for a next-level salad topper. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Tenders
Alright, folks, let’s dive into a dish that’s about to make your taste buds do a happy dance—teriyaki pineapple chicken tenders. Imagine the sweet, tangy embrace of pineapple meeting the savory, umami-rich hug of teriyaki, all wrapped around juicy chicken tenders. It’s like a tropical vacation for your mouth, minus the sunburn.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders – 1 lb
- Teriyaki sauce – ½ cup
- Pineapple chunks – 1 cup
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F because we’re about to turn up the heat on these tenders.
- In a bowl, toss the chicken tenders with teriyaki sauce and garlic powder until they’re fully coated. Pro tip: Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor penetration.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken tenders and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until they’ve got a gorgeous golden-brown crust.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. This ensures the chicken is cooked through without drying out.
- Add pineapple chunks to the skillet during the last 5 minutes of baking. They’ll caramelize slightly, adding a sweet, smoky depth to the dish.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes. This little pause lets the juices redistribute, making every bite succulent.
You’ll love the contrast between the sticky, glossy teriyaki glaze and the bright, juicy pineapple. Serve these bad boys over a bed of rice or chop them up for a killer salad topper. Yum doesn’t even begin to cover it.
Pineapple Chicken Tenders with Coconut Rice
Feast your eyes on this tropical twist to your usual chicken tenders—because who said you can’t have a vacation on a plate? Juicy pineapple meets crispy chicken, all lounging on a bed of fluffy coconut rice. It’s like a beach party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited!
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders – 1 lb
- Pineapple chunks – 1 cup
- Coconut milk – 1 cup
- Rice – 1 cup
- Flour – ½ cup
- Egg – 1
- Breadcrumbs – 1 cup
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Oil – for frying
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F to keep the tenders warm while you finish the batch.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions, but substitute water with coconut milk for that tropical flair.
- Season the chicken tenders with salt, then dredge in flour, dip in beaten egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat (350°F if you’re using a thermometer) and fry the tenders until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain the tenders on a paper towel to remove excess oil, then keep them warm in the oven.
- In the same pan, lightly sauté the pineapple chunks until they’re slightly caramelized, about 2 minutes.
- Serve the crispy chicken tenders over the coconut rice, topped with the caramelized pineapple.
Perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with sweet and savory flavors. Try skewering the tenders and pineapple for a fun, handheld version that’s perfect for picnics!
Grilled Pineapple Chicken Tenders
Zesty and zippy, these Grilled Pineapple Chicken Tenders are about to become your summer BBQ’s MVP. Imagine tender chicken meets smoky grill marks and a sweet, tangy pineapple hug—yes, it’s as delicious as it sounds.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders – 1 lb
- Pineapple slices – 1 cup, chopped
- Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
- Honey – 1 tbsp
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F). Tip: A well-heated grill ensures those perfect char marks without sticking.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, and garlic powder. Add chicken tenders, coating evenly. Let marinate for 10 minutes. Tip: Don’t skip the marinating time; it’s the secret to flavor-packed tenders.
- Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place chicken tenders on the grill. Cook for 4 minutes per side.
- Add chopped pineapple to the grill alongside the chicken during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Tip: Grilling pineapple caramelizes its sugars, enhancing sweetness.
- Remove chicken and pineapple from the grill. Serve immediately.
Delightfully juicy with a smoky-sweet kick, these tenders pair wonderfully with a crisp salad or tucked into tacos for a tropical twist. The pineapple not only adds a burst of flavor but keeps the chicken incredibly moist—no one will believe how simple this recipe is!
Pineapple Chicken Tenders Stir Fry
Ready to shake up your dinner routine with a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat? These Pineapple Chicken Tenders Stir Fry are your ticket to a tropical flavor getaway without leaving your kitchen—because let’s face it, we could all use a little vacation.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders – 1 lb
- Pineapple chunks – 1 cup
- Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
- Honey – 1 tbsp
- Vegetable oil – 1 tbsp
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Red bell pepper – 1, sliced
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
- Add chicken tenders to the skillet, cooking for 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure each piece gets perfectly crispy.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant. Tip: Keep the heat high to quickly soften the peppers without losing their crunch.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, adding pineapple chunks, soy sauce, and honey. Stir to combine.
- Cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken evenly. Tip: If the sauce thickens too quickly, a splash of water can loosen it up.
Out of the skillet, this dish boasts a juicy tenderness from the chicken, a sweet and tangy punch from the pineapple, and a slight crunch from the peppers. Serve it over a bed of rice for a hearty meal, or wrap it in lettuce leaves for a low-carb twist that’s just as delicious.
Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Tenders
Buckle up, buttercups, because we’re about to take your taste buds on a tropical vacation with these Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Tenders. Perfect for when you’re craving something that’s a little sweet, a little tangy, and a whole lot of delicious.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders – 1 lb
- Pineapple chunks – 1 cup
- Ketchup – ½ cup
- Brown sugar – ¼ cup
- Apple cider vinegar – 2 tbsp
- Soy sauce – 1 tbsp
- Cornstarch – 1 tbsp
- Water – 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Arrange the chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching for even cooking.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- While the chicken bakes, combine pineapple chunks, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it bubble gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then stir it into the saucepan to thicken the sauce.
- Once the chicken is done, toss it in the sweet and sour sauce until each tender is gloriously coated.
- Serve immediately over a bed of rice or with a side of steamed veggies for a meal that’s as colorful as it is tasty.
Yield to the irresistible combo of juicy pineapple and tender chicken, all smothered in a sauce that’s the perfect balance of sweet and sour. Try skewering the tenders with extra pineapple chunks for a fun, hands-off appetizer at your next gathering.
Pineapple Chicken Tenders Salad
Unbelievably easy and explosively flavorful, this Pineapple Chicken Tenders Salad is your ticket to a tropical escape without leaving your kitchen. Perfect for those days when you’re craving something light yet satisfying, and let’s be honest, who isn’t?
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders – 1 lb
- Pineapple chunks – 1 cup
- Mixed salad greens – 4 cups
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp
- Honey – 1 tbsp
- Lime juice – 2 tbsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Black pepper – ¼ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures your chicken cooks evenly without drying out.
- Toss the chicken tenders with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- While the chicken bakes, whisk together the remaining olive oil, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl for the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the salad greens and pineapple chunks. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently.
- Slice the baked chicken tenders and arrange them on top of the salad. Tip: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle with toasted almonds or coconut flakes.
Packed with juicy pineapple and tender chicken, every bite is a burst of sweet and savory. Try serving it in a hollowed-out pineapple half for that Instagram-worthy presentation!
Pineapple Chicken Tenders Tacos
Kick your taco night up a notch with these Pineapple Chicken Tenders Tacos that are sure to make your taste buds dance with joy. Perfect for when you’re craving something sweet, savory, and slightly sassy, these tacos are a game-changer.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders – 1 lb
- Pineapple chunks – 1 cup
- Taco shells – 8
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp
- Chili powder – 1 tsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
Instructions
- Preheat your skillet over medium heat and add 1 tbsp of olive oil. Tip: A well-heated skillet ensures your chicken gets that perfect sear.
- Season the chicken tenders with chili powder and salt, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 2 minutes before slicing into strips. Tip: Letting the chicken rest keeps it juicy.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and pineapple chunks. Cook for 3 minutes or until the pineapple starts to caramelize.
- Warm the taco shells according to package instructions. Tip: A quick toast in the oven can add extra crunch.
- Assemble the tacos by placing chicken strips and caramelized pineapple in each shell.
So there you have it—tacos that are a delightful mix of tender, juicy chicken and sweet, caramelized pineapple. Serve them with a side of lime wedges for an extra zing that’ll make these tacos unforgettable.
Pineapple Chicken Tenders Skewers
Excuse me, but have you ever met a skewer that’s as fun to make as it is to eat? These Pineapple Chicken Tenders Skewers are here to prove that weeknight dinners can be both easy and exciting, with a tropical twist that’ll have you dreaming of beachside barbecues.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders – 1 lb
- Pineapple chunks – 2 cups
- Soy sauce – ¼ cup
- Honey – 2 tbsp
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (375°F). No grill? A broiler on high works too!
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and garlic powder. Tip: Warm the honey for 10 seconds in the microwave to make mixing easier.
- Add chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let sit for 10 minutes. Tip: Don’t marinate longer than 30 minutes to prevent the chicken from becoming too salty.
- Thread chicken and pineapple chunks onto skewers, alternating between the two. Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes first to prevent burning.
- Brush skewers lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
Ready to dive in? These skewers boast a juicy, tender chicken paired with sweet, caramelized pineapple—a match made in flavor heaven. Serve them over a bed of rice or with a side of grilled veggies for a meal that’s as colorful as it is delicious.
Pineapple Chicken Tenders with Mango Salsa
Unbelievably, we’ve found a way to make chicken tenders even more irresistible by giving them a tropical twist that’ll have your taste buds doing the hula. Imagine juicy, crispy tenders meeting the sweet and tangy duo of pineapple and mango salsa—yes, it’s as good as it sounds.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenders – 1 lb
- Pineapple juice – ½ cup
- Flour – 1 cup
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Mango – 1, diced
- Red onion – ¼ cup, finely chopped
- Cilantro – 2 tbsp, chopped
- Lime juice – 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Marinate the chicken tenders in pineapple juice for 15 minutes to infuse them with sweetness.
- Mix flour and salt in a shallow dish, then dredge each tender to coat evenly.
- Place the coated tenders on the baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- While the chicken bakes, combine diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl to make the salsa.
- Serve the crispy pineapple chicken tenders hot with the fresh mango salsa on top or on the side.
These tenders are a crispy, juicy dream with a salsa that brings a fresh, vibrant kick. Try serving them over a bed of coconut rice for an extra tropical punch that’ll transport you straight to island paradise.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve explored these 12 delicious pineapple chicken tenders recipes, it’s clear there’s a flavor for every palate! Whether you’re craving something sweet, spicy, or tangy, these dishes promise to delight. We’d love to hear which recipe stole your heart—drop a comment below and don’t forget to share your cooking adventures with friends by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking!
