Easy Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

I’m a home cook who loves turning pantry staples into something special, and this pineapple chicken stir-fry is my go-to for a quick, vibrant dinner that screams tropical vibes! Picture juicy chicken, crisp bell peppers, and sweet pineapple chunks tossed in a tangy sauce – it’s like a mini vacation on your plate.

I first threw this together on a whim when I had a can of pineapple and some chicken thighs begging to be used, and now it’s a family staple. Ready in under 30 minutes, this Asian-inspired dish with a Hawaiian twist is perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something colorful and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pineapple chicken stir-fry is a flavor-packed lifesaver – sweet, savory, and just a touch tangy. It’s super easy, making it great for beginners or anyone short on time. You can tweak it with whatever veggies you have, and it’s healthier than takeout sweet and sour chicken. Honestly, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a treat but comes together without breaking a sweat.

Recipe Overview

This recipe delivers tender chicken and vibrant veggies coated in a glossy pineapple sauce. It’s a quick, one-pan meal with bold tropical flavors.
Prep time: 10 minutes.
Cook time: 15 minutes.
Total time: 25 minutes.
Servings: 4.
Difficulty: Easy.
Cuisine: Asian-inspired with Hawaiian influences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the stir-fry:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch fresh ginger, grated (optional)

For the sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Red chili flakes for spice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep your ingredients – chop chicken evenly and slice veggies thinly for quick cooking. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry chicken with salt and pepper for 5-7 minutes until golden; set aside. Add remaining oil to the pan, then toss in garlic, ginger (if using), onion, and bell peppers; stir-fry 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender. Add pineapple chunks, soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and rice vinegar; simmer 2 minutes. Return chicken to the pan, stir in cornstarch slurry, and cook 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens. Taste and adjust with sugar or chili flakes. Serve hot.

Helpful Tips

Marinate chicken in soy sauce and pineapple juice for 15 minutes for extra flavor. Use a hot pan to sear chicken properly – it keeps things juicy. Fresh pineapple gives a brighter taste, but canned is fine if drained well. If the sauce gets too thick, thin it with a splash of water or juice.

Variations

Add jalapeños or sriracha for a spicy pineapple chicken kick. Toss in broccoli or snap peas for more veggies. For low-carb, serve over cauliflower rice. Try grilling the pineapple first for smoky Hawaiian chicken vibes. Coconut milk in the sauce makes a creamy, Thai-style twist.

How to Serve

Serve over jasmine or brown rice to soak up the sauce. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for flair. Pair with a cucumber salad or steamed veggies for a full meal. Let everyone build their own bowls for a fun, customizable dinner.

Storage Instructions

Cool leftovers completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or microwave, stirring halfway. Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (4 servings):
Calories: 320
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen pineapple? Yes, thaw and drain it to avoid excess liquid.
Is it kid-friendly? Totally – the pineapple sweetness is a hit; just skip the spice.
No rice vinegar? Use apple cider or white vinegar for similar tang.
Can I prep ahead? Chop veggies and mix sauce early; stir-fry fresh for best texture.
Gluten-free option? Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Conclusion

This pineapple chicken stir-fry is your ticket to a quick, flavorful dinner that brings tropical sunshine to any night – it’s my secret weapon for making weeknights feel special without the fuss. Whip it up, savor the sweet-savory magic, and maybe even share a bowl with someone you love. Try this recipe tonight and drop a comment to tell me how it went – I’m all ears!