Pin This vibrant pineapple chicken stir fry has become my weeknight dinner hero when I need something quick yet impressive. The sweet juicy pineapple perfectly balances the savory sauce, creating a restaurant-quality meal that comes together in just 30 minutes.
I first created this recipe when trying to recreate my favorite takeout dish during the pandemic lockdown. What started as an experiment has become our family's most requested dinner, especially on hectic weeknights when time is tight but we still crave something delicious.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breast: provides lean protein and takes on flavors beautifully. Look for plump pieces without discoloration.
- Cornstarch: creates a velvety texture on the chicken and thickens the sauce. Always mix with cold water first to prevent clumping.
- Fresh pineapple chunks: offer superior flavor and juiciness. Choose a ripe one that smells sweet at the stem end.
- Bell peppers: add vibrant color and crunch. Select firm peppers with glossy skin for best results.
- Fresh ginger and garlic: form an aromatic base. Fresh is significantly better than pre-minced options here.
- Soy sauce: provides rich umami depth. I recommend low-sodium versions to control saltiness.
- Rice vinegar: adds essential tang. The mild sweetness balances the dish perfectly.
- Honey: sweetens naturally. Local honey has wonderful subtle flavor differences worth exploring.
- Sesame oil: delivers nutty aromatic finish. A little goes a long way with this potent ingredient.
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken:
- Toss chicken pieces thoroughly with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until every piece is lightly coated. This creates a protective layer that keeps the chicken tender while providing texture. Let it sit for 5 minutes while you prepare other ingredients to help the coating adhere better.
- Mix the sauce:
- Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, oyster sauce if using, pineapple juice, and sesame oil in a bowl. Whisk until the honey fully dissolves into the liquid. This balanced sauce brings together sweet, salty, and tangy elements that make this dish special. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Cook the chicken:
- Heat your wok or skillet until very hot before adding oil. This prevents sticking and creates that desirable caramelization. Add chicken pieces in a single layer without overcrowding. Let them sear for 1-2 minutes before stirring to develop golden edges. Remove promptly when just cooked through to prevent toughening.
- Sauté aromatics and vegetables:
- Return the wok to high heat, adding remaining oil. Add garlic and ginger first, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add onions and peppers next, tossing frequently for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften but still maintain crispness.
- Combine and finish:
- Add pineapple chunks and stir for about a minute to slightly caramelize their edges. Return chicken to the pan and pour sauce over everything. Let it bubble for about 30 seconds before adding cornstarch slurry. Stir continuously as the sauce thickens to glossy perfection, about 1-2 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but still flow.
Pin The fresh pineapple is truly the star ingredient here. While canned will work in a pinch, fresh pineapple offers a brightness and texture that transforms this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. My daughter, who normally picks around fruit in savory dishes, always asks for extra pineapple chunks in her portion now.
Meal Prep Magic
This stir fry works wonderfully for meal prep. Simply prepare all components and store them separately in the refrigerator. The chopped vegetables will stay fresh for 2-3 days, and the sauce can be mixed ahead and refrigerated for up to a week. When ready to cook, you can have dinner on the table in under 15 minutes.
Vegetable Variations
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. While bell peppers provide classic color and crunch, you can substitute or add seasonal vegetables based on what looks fresh at the market. Some excellent additions include snow peas, broccoli florets, sliced carrots, or water chestnuts. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, adding firmer vegetables earlier and more delicate ones later.
Serving Suggestions
While jasmine rice makes a traditional base for this stir fry, there are many delicious alternatives. Try serving over brown rice for added nutrition, cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option, or even rice noodles for a different texture. For a complete meal, consider adding a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil on the side.
The Secret to Perfect Stir Fry
The most common mistake home cooks make with stir fries is overcrowding the pan. Working in batches might seem tedious but ensures proper caramelization rather than steaming. Another critical factor is having all ingredients prepped and within reach before heating your wok. This classic mise en place approach prevents anything from overcooking while you search for ingredients.
Pin This pineapple chicken stir fry is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or a vibrant centerpiece for a casual gathering. Its bright flavors and satisfying textures are sure to be a hit.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I keep the chicken tender?
Coating the chicken in cornstarch before stir frying seals in moisture, resulting in juicy, tender pieces.
- → Can I substitute the chicken?
Yes, firm tofu works well as an alternative. Simply omit oyster sauce for a vegetarian option.
- → What vegetables work best in this dish?
Bell peppers and red onions add color and crunch, but snap peas or broccoli florets are tasty additions too.
- → How do I thicken the sauce?
A slurry of cornstarch and water mixed into the sauce helps it thicken and coat all ingredients evenly.
- → What variations can I try?
Use orange juice instead of pineapple juice for a citrus twist, or add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- → Which accompaniments complement this dish?
Serve over steamed jasmine rice, and pair with a crisp Riesling or a refreshing glass of iced green tea.