Bright, bursting with flavor, and just the right amount of sweet and savory, this Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe is the kind of weeknight dinner that makes you look forward to coming home. Fresh pineapple mingles with juicy chicken and colorful bell peppers in a zingy sauce that comes together in less than 30 minutes! Whether you’re out to impress or just want a tasty, effortless meal, this dish delivers big flavor for minimal fuss. My favorite thing about this recipe? It packs a tropical punch while still being so approachable for busy nights or laid-back gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of my favorite things about the Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe is its simplicity—each ingredient is easy to find, and they all play a starring role in shaping the flavor, texture, and visual appeal of the dish. From colorful veggies to that irresistible sweet-savory sauce, every component counts.
- Chicken breasts: Lean and tender, they soak up flavors beautifully and stay juicy.
- Cornstarch: Provides a crisp coating for the chicken and helps thicken the sauce.
- Vegetable oil: Ensures even browning of the chicken and gives the vegetables a gorgeous sauté.
- Red bell pepper: With sweetness and bold color, it stands out in every bite.
- Green bell pepper: Adds crunch and a lovely contrast of color and taste.
- Fresh pineapple chunks: The real showstopper, giving the dish its signature tangy sweetness.
- Garlic: A must for depth and classic stir-fry aroma—don’t skip it!
- Fresh ginger: Adds bright, spicy warmth and a zesty lift.
- Soy sauce: The salty, umami-rich base of the stir-fry sauce.
- Rice vinegar: Balances the flavors with just enough acidity.
- Honey: Rounds everything out with a light, natural sweetness.
- Sesame oil: Gives the finish a nutty, toasty aroma you’ll crave.
- Green onions: Bring fresh color and a gentle onion bite at the end.
- Sesame seeds (optional): Add a subtle crunch and a little extra flair for serving.
How to Make Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Coat and Prep the Chicken
Start by tossing the bite-sized chicken pieces in cornstarch until they’re lightly coated. This simple step really matters—it helps the chicken get that golden crust that’s characteristic of a great stir-fry, plus it helps the sauce cling to every juicy piece. While you prep, gather the remaining ingredients so everything’s ready to go—the cooking moves quickly!
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat half your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and let it sizzle without stirring too much—this ensures it browns beautifully. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, until the pieces are golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside, but don’t worry about cleaning the skillet—you want all those tasty browned bits for the next step!
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Veggies and Pineapple
Pour in the remaining oil and add the red and green bell peppers. Stir-fry these for just 2 to 3 minutes—they should still have a bit of crispness. Next, toss in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and those glorious pineapple chunks. Cook everything together for another 2 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and slightly caramelized.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. You’ll notice the combination smells incredible! This sauce is the heart of the Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe—salty, sweet, a little sharp, and so aromatic.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the seared chicken to the skillet with the veggies and pineapple. Pour in your prepared sauce and stir everything well to coat. Let it cook for 2 to 3 more minutes; you’ll see the sauce thicken and become glossy, coating every ingredient in that irresistible sheen. Finally, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds if you like, and your dinner is ready to shine!
How to Serve Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
To make this dish pop both visually and in flavor, garnish with a shower of fresh green onions and a scattering of toasted sesame seeds. That little crunch from the seeds and freshness from the onions add the perfect final touch, making every forkful irresistible.
Side Dishes
Steamed jasmine rice is a classic and soaks up the sauce beautifully, but don’t stop there—you could serve this stir-fry over fluffy white or brown rice, nutty quinoa, or even tender noodles. For a lighter option, try a bed of cauliflower rice or crisp lettuce wraps!
Creative Ways to Present
Dress up your Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe by serving it family-style on a large platter, surrounded by extra pineapple slices and colorful bell pepper rings. Or, scoop the stir-fry into hollowed-out pineapple halves for a tropical presentation that’s sure to wow at any dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe will keep fresh and tasty for up to 3 days. The flavors meld overnight, sometimes making leftovers even better!
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the stir-fry in individual portions. Place in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags—just try to squeeze out extra air to prevent freezer burn. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months, ready for a quick, delicious meal anytime!
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, reheat your Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. You can also use the microwave (covered) for convenience, but avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and the veggies crisp.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to drain the canned pineapple well and use pineapple chunks packed in juice rather than syrup for the best balance of sweetness and tang. Fresh pineapple will give the brightest flavor, but canned makes this Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe weeknight-friendly all year round.
What other vegetables can I add?
Absolutely—this dish is versatile! You can add snap peas, snow peas, thinly sliced carrots, or even baby corn for extra crunch and color. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time so all the veggies are perfectly tender-crisp.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for firm tofu (pressed and cubed) or your favorite plant-based chicken substitute. Just treat it the same way in the recipe, and you’ll still enjoy all the flavor and fun of the Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe.
What can I do if my stir-fry is too watery?
If the sauce seems too thin, just let everything simmer uncovered for a couple of extra minutes—the cornstarch will help it thicken up beautifully as the liquid reduces. Make sure to stir frequently so nothing sticks.
Is this Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe spicy?
By default, it’s not spicy but full of sweet and tangy notes. If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to taste—that little kick pairs wonderfully with the sweet pineapple!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a simple dinner that feels special, you can’t go wrong with this Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe. Whether you serve it for a quick Tuesday night meal or a sunny weekend get-together, it’s guaranteed to make everyone smile. Give it a try and let the tropical flavors surprise you—happy cooking!
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: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry recipe is a delicious combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple chunks, and colorful bell peppers, all stir-fried in a flavorful sauce. It’s a quick and easy Asian-inspired dish that is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Coat the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Prepare the Stir-Fry: Add remaining oil to the skillet, sauté bell peppers, garlic, ginger, and pineapple. Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. Return chicken to the skillet, pour in the sauce, and cook until heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if preferred.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
