If you’re looking for a vibrant and delicious dish that balances sweet, savory, and a hint of spice, this Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe is sure to become one of your all-time favorites. Bursting with colorful bell peppers, juicy pineapple chunks, and tender chicken, every bite offers a delightful harmony of textures and flavors that feels like a party in your mouth. Whether you’re after an easy weeknight dinner or something impressive yet quick, this recipe combines fresh ingredients and a zesty sauce that’ll leave you wanting seconds and maybe even thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe sing. Each component plays a crucial role, from the crispy bell peppers adding crunch and color to the sweet pineapple enhancing the flavor profile with natural juiciness.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and absorb the sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps create a light coating for the chicken that crisps up perfectly in the pan.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Essential for stir-frying and getting that beautiful sear on the chicken.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds vibrant color and a subtly sweet crunch.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Offers a fresh, peppery contrast that brightens the dish.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained): The star of the dish, lending juicy sweetness with every bite.
- 2 green onions, chopped: Adds a mild onion flavor and a fresh pop of green as garnish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with savory depth and warmth.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated: Introduces a zesty spice that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- ¼ cup soy sauce: Provides the salty, umami backbone of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice: Enhances the pineapple flavor and adds a tangy sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances the savory elements with smooth, natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Gives a subtle tang that lifts the whole stir-fry.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma that enriches the final flavor.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little kick of heat!
- Sesame seeds for garnish: Adds a lovely finishing touch with texture and visual appeal.
How to Make Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by tossing the chicken pieces with cornstarch to give them an even, light coating. This simple step is essential for achieving that slightly crispy exterior once you start cooking. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally until the pieces are nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, set the chicken aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same skillet you cooked the chicken, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and both the red and green bell peppers. Stir-fry them for 2 to 3 minutes, just until they soften slightly but still retain their vibrant color and a delightful crispness. This balance in texture keeps the stir-fry fresh and exciting.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Next, add your pineapple chunks and the cooked chicken back into the skillet. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and the optional red pepper flakes. Pour this flavorful sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring thoroughly to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the sauce slightly thickens and all those vibrant flavors meld beautifully.
Step 4: Final Touches
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the dish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. These final touches add that perfect fresh and nutty flair just when you thought it couldn’t get any better. Serve your Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe piping hot, ideally over steaming rice or your favorite noodles for a complete meal.
How to Serve Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions and sesame seeds are classic garnishes here, bringing both visual appeal and subtle layers of flavor. Feel free to add chopped cilantro or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra punch of brightness that complements the sweet and savory sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple steamed jasmine rice or brown rice, soaking up every bit of the luscious sauce. For a lower-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside some sautéed greens like bok choy or snap peas to keep things light and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow guests? Serve the stir-fry inside hollowed-out pineapple halves for a tropical presentation that doubles as a conversation starter. Alternatively, toss the stir-fry with cooked noodles and garnish with crunchy peanuts and fresh herbs for a noodle bowl twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers should be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. The dish will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prepping or a next-day lunch that still tastes freshly made.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe, it’s best to do so before adding the fresh garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally to warm evenly without drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or extra pineapple juice can help revive the sauce and keep the dish juicy and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pineapple chunks (preferably drained) work perfectly and add the same sweet flavor and juiciness as fresh pineapple, making this dish super convenient to prepare year-round.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can easily swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to get a nice crisp on your protein. This keeps the Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe deliciously plant-based without sacrificing flavor.
How spicy is this dish?
The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can control the heat level depending on your preference. Without them, the dish is mildly spiced, focusing more on sweet and savory notes perfect for all palates.
What can I substitute for soy sauce if I have dietary restrictions?
For a gluten-free or low-sodium option, tamari or coconut aminos make excellent substitutes. They provide a similar umami depth without the added wheat or salt content.
Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?
Definitely! You can slice the vegetables and chop the aromatics in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Even coating the chicken in cornstarch early helps save time when you’re ready to cook this quick and tasty Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe is a joyous celebration of bold flavors and vibrant ingredients, all coming together for a quick and easy meal that feels anything but ordinary. It’s perfect for spicing up your dinner rotation with a dish that’s not only colorful and tasty but also a breeze to make. Give it a try, and I’m confident it will become a beloved staple you reach for time and time again.
Print
Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry combining tender chicken breast with crisp bell peppers and sweet pineapple chunks, all tossed in a tangy, slightly spicy sauce. Perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner with an Asian-inspired twist.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
Vegetables and Fruit
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated, ensuring each piece has a light dusting. This helps to create a slight crispiness during cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on the outside and cooked through internally. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Vegetables and Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced red and green bell peppers for 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender yet still crisp, allowing the aromatics to infuse the dish.
- Add Pineapple and Chicken Back: Add the pineapple chunks and the cooked chicken pieces back into the skillet, mixing gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Make and Add Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the skillet and stir well to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and flavors to meld.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the stir-fry as a fresh garnish. Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a low-carb alternative, serve the stir-fry over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or noodles.
- You can substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for different protein options according to preference or dietary needs.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness based on your taste.
