Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry

When you think of a dish that dances on your taste buds, evokes smiles, and wraps you in a warm hug, think of Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry. This colorful medley brings together juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and that delightful tang of pineapple. The aroma wafts through the air like a delicious invitation to savor every bite.

As I remember the first time I tried this dish, it was during one of those spontaneous family gatherings where laughter was as plentiful as the food. I can still hear my cousin declaring this meal “the best thing since sliced bread,” which in our family is high praise indeed Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry promises an unforgettable flavor explosion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This dish is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • The sweet and tangy flavors create a delicious contrast that everyone will love
  • Vibrant colors from fresh veggies make it visually appealing and exciting to eat
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have at home for added flexibility

The last time I made this stir-fry, my kids declared it “the good stuff,” and honestly, who doesn’t want their children to love what they cook?

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well adjust based on your crowd size.
  • Fresh Pineapple: Choose a ripe pineapple for maximum sweetness canned works too if you’re short on time.
  • Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green adds color and crunch choose firm peppers for the best texture.
  • Onion: Yellow onions bring sweetness slice them thinly for even cooking.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide robust flavor don’t skimp here

For the Sauce:

  • Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while keeping flavor rich.
  • Rice Vinegar: Adds necessary tang substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
  • Brown Sugar: A touch balances acidity with sweetness perfectly.
  • Sesame Oil: Use toasted sesame oil for depth of flavor in your stir-fry.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

First things first: Gather your ingredients and equipment so we can get cooking without any hiccups.

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Dice your pineapple into chunks that are easy to grab with a fork. Slice bell peppers and onions thinly to ensure even cooking.

Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and sesame oil until combined. Set aside so it’s ready when we start cooking.

Cook the Chicken: Heat some oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and stir-fry until they turn golden brown and cooked through about 5-7 minutes.

Add Veggies: Toss in sliced onions and bell peppers next cook until they soften slightly but still have a crunch around 3-4 minutes works well here.

Add Pineapple & Sauce: Stir in those juicy pineapple chunks along with your prepared sauce. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes until heated through and well combined.

Strong Serve & Enjoy: Serve your Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Watch as everyone digs in with delighted expressions

And there you have it An easy recipe that takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish yet feels like dining out at your favorite restaurant. Now go ahead gather your loved ones around the table because this dish deserves applause

You Must Know

  • Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry is a delightful dish bursting with flavor
  • The balance of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates an irresistible meal that will impress everyone at the table
  • The vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in juices, then add vegetables and pineapple, cooking everything together to achieve a harmonious blend of flavors.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu. Add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil for extra depth of flavor that suits your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stir-fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to retain freshness and texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always cut your chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking
  • Use fresh ingredients for the best flavors and consider adding cashews for a crunchy twist
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan this ensures perfect browning and prevents steaming

Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of my friends’ reaction at dinner last week when they all went for seconds, claiming I should open a restaurant

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Canned pineapple works well, but fresh adds more vibrant flavor and texture.

What can I serve with Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry?

Serve it over steamed rice or noodles to soak up all the delicious sauce.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to kick up the heat

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Ann Foster
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Indulge in the vibrant and delightful flavors of Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry. This quick and easy dish features succulent chicken, fresh vegetables, and juicy pineapple, all tossed in a tangy sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned)
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil

Instructions

  1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Dice pineapple and slice bell peppers and onions.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
  3. Heat oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken; stir-fry until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
  4. Add onions and bell peppers; cook until slightly softened (3-4 minutes).
  5. Stir in pineapple and sauce; combine everything for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  6. Serve over steamed rice or noodles.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stir-Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
  • Calories: 330
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Related Articles

Ann Foster

Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Ann Foster! Born and raised in California’s Central Valley, I found my passion for cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, I traveled across the country exploring new flavors and cooking techniques. This website is my passion project—where I share delicious recipes meant to bring people together, one meal at a time. Welcome to my culinary journey!

Chef Ann