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Chicken in Pineapple Sauce (Chicken Hamonado)

This aromatic chicken hamonado is a delightful Filipino-inspired dish that perfectly balances savoury and sweet flavours. By using unsweetened pineapple juice and a mindful amount of sugar, this low-sugar recipe allows the natural tang of the fruit to shine through. The chicken is marinated in fish sauce and lemon juice, ensuring every bite is deeply seasoned before being simmered to tender perfection in a vibrant, glossy sauce.

Ideal for a comforting family dinner, this one-pot meal is both nutritious and simple to prepare. The combination of garlic, soy sauce and pineapple chunks creates a rich profile that pairs beautifully with a simple side of steamed jasmine rice. Whether you are using thighs, drumsticks or wings, this homemade classic offers a lighter take on a traditional favourite.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Chicken in Pineapple Sauce (Chicken Hamonado)

  • 1.4kg (1.3 kg) chicken pieces of your choice (thighs, drumsticks or wings)

  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fish sauce

  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste

  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil

  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped

  • 1 small onion, chopped

  • 240ml (240 ml) unsweetened pineapple juice

  • 2 tablespoons (25 g) sugar

  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) soy sauce

  • 1 (400g [398-ml]) can pineapple chunks with juice

  • Salt, to taste

  • Steamed rice, for serving

How to make Chicken in Pineapple Sauce (Chicken Hamonado)

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the fish sauce, lemon juice and pepper; toss to combine. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. Drain the chicken and discard the marinade.

Heat the oil in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until the onion begins to soften, about 2 minutes.

Add the chicken and sauté until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.

Add the pineapple juice, sugar and soy sauce. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to medium and simmer covered until the chicken is almost tender, about 20 minutes.

Add the pineapple chunks with juice and continue to simmer until the sauce has reduced and the chicken is tender, about 20 minutes. Season to taste with salt.

Serve with steamed rice.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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