Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
If you are craving a vibrant, sweet and savory dish that comes together in a flash, this Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe is a total winner. Juicy chicken pieces get a delightful coating of a glossy, tangy sauce made with pineapple juice and soy, while crisp bell peppers add just the right crunch. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special but is incredibly easy to whip up, packing an exciting punch of tropical flavor balanced with comforting savory notes. Trust me, once you try this Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe, it will become one of your go-to meals to brighten any evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients here are straightforward but essential, each contributing something special to the dish’s overall taste and texture. From tender chicken and vibrant bell peppers to the sweet zing of pineapple and a luscious sauce, every element plays its part beautifully.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs: Bite-sized pieces ensure quick and even cooking for juicy chicken in every bite.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps coat the chicken, giving a nice texture and helping the sauce stick.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Basic but essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided: Needed to stir-fry the chicken and veggies without sticking.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds vibrant color and a subtle sweetness to the dish.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Provides a contrasting earthy crunch and beautiful color balance.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained): Brings juicy sweetness that’s key to the signature flavor of this recipe.
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions (optional): Adds freshness and a mild onion kick as a garnish.
- Sesame seeds (optional): For a toasty crunch and a lovely visual finish.
- For the sauce: 1/3 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, 1 teaspoon cornstarch — this flavorful blend makes the stir-fry irresistibly sticky and delicious.
How to Make Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by tossing the bite-sized chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This light coating not only seasons the chicken but also gives it a slight crispness on the outside during cooking, which really up-levels the texture.
Step 2: Whisk the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together all the sauce ingredients until smooth. The combination of soy sauce, sweetness from honey or brown sugar, tang from rice vinegar, and the subtle warmth of fresh ginger and garlic creates that perfect balance of flavors you want in a Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or wok. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. When ready, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Veggies and Pineapple
Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Toss in the sliced red and green bell peppers and stir-fry them for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re tender but still have a satisfying crunch. Then add the pineapple chunks and cook everything together for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the pineapple’s sweetness to meld with the veggies.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then pour the prepared sauce over the whole mixture. Stir to coat everything evenly, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens beautifully and clings to the chicken, peppers, and pineapple. This final step ensures every bite bursts with flavor.
How to Serve Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
The perfect finishing touch can make a dish look as good as it tastes. Sprinkle sliced green onions and a handful of toasted sesame seeds on top to add a fresh crunch and subtle nuttiness that complement the stir-fry perfectly. These simple garnishes elevate the whole presentation in a snap.
Side Dishes
Serve this Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe over steamed jasmine rice, fluffy white rice, or your favorite noodles to soak up all that glorious sauce. A simple side of sautéed greens, such as bok choy or snap peas, pairs wonderfully to round out the meal with a healthy crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stir-fry in pineapple halves or on a bed of fried rice with scrambled eggs mixed in. You can also stuff the stir-fry into lettuce cups for a fresh, handheld option that adds a textural contrast and makes it feel even more special for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe keeps very well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it an easy and delicious meal to enjoy the next day.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, some veggies may soften upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, store the stir-fry in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for best taste. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the sauce’s texture and the chicken’s juiciness. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much in the fridge. You can also microwave leftovers covered, stirring halfway through to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice for Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe because they stay juicy and tender, adding a bit more flavor and richness to the dish.
Is fresh pineapple better than canned?
Fresh pineapple adds a bright, juicy punch and natural sweetness, but canned pineapple (drained) works perfectly too and is super convenient—either way, the dish is delicious.
Can I add more vegetables to this stir-fry?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in snap peas, broccoli, carrots, or even baby corn to bulk up the veggies and add more colors and textures to your Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe.
What can I substitute if I don’t have hoisin sauce?
If you don’t have hoisin sauce on hand, you can use a mix of soy sauce with a little honey and a dash of garlic and five-spice powder to mimic its sweet and savory depth.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe gluten-free, just use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. Ensure your hoisin sauce is also labeled gluten-free or substitute accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe is such a joyful dish to make and enjoy. It balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors while celebrating vibrant colors and textures in each bite. It comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something nourishing and exciting. Try it out and see how this easy recipe can become a bright spot in your dinner rotation — you won’t regret it!
Print
Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
This Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry is a vibrant and flavorful Asian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked to perfection and tossed with crisp bell peppers and juicy pineapple chunks. The sweet and savory sauce, made with soy sauce, pineapple juice, and hoisin, beautifully coats the stir-fry for a quick and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Sauce
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper to lightly coat, ensuring the chicken will have a slight crisp when cooked.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients, including soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables and Pineapple: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Stir-fry the sliced red and green bell peppers for 3–4 minutes until they are slightly tender but retain some crispness. Then add the pineapple chunks and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to warm through.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables and pineapple. Pour the prepared sauce over everything. Stir well, cooking for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats all ingredients.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the overall salt content of the dish.
- Add snap peas, broccoli, or carrots to increase vegetable variety and nutrition.
- This recipe is great for meal prep; it reheats well for quick lunches or dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
