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Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

4.2 from 27 reviews

A quick and flavorful Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry featuring tender chicken pieces cooked with vibrant bell peppers, onions, and juicy pineapple chunks tossed in a sweet and tangy sauce made from pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, and hoisin sauce. This 20-minute stir-fry recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory, ideal for a delicious weeknight dinner served over steamed rice.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Stir-Fry Sauce

  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from the canned pineapple)
  • 1/3 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Main Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into 3/4-inch dice
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon minced ginger
  • 1 1/2 cups diced canned pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup sliced green onions, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce: In a bowl, combine pineapple juice, chicken broth, honey, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and set the sauce mixture aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
  3. Add Vegetables: Add diced red bell pepper and onion to the skillet with the chicken. Stir-fry for 2 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while retaining their crispness.
  4. Incorporate Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and ginger. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
  5. Add Pineapple Chunks: Add the diced canned pineapple chunks to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the pineapple to heat through and release flavor.
  6. Simmer with Sauce: Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce into the skillet. Stir occasionally as the sauce bubbles and thickens over medium-high heat for about 5-6 minutes. The sauce should reduce and caramelize, coating the chicken and vegetables beautifully.
  7. Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the sliced green onions. Serve the pineapple chicken stir-fry over steamed rice and garnish with the remaining green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results, or chicken breasts for a leaner option.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh chili during the garlic and ginger step.
  • To make it gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
  • Ensure the cornstarch is well dissolved in the sauce to avoid lumps during cooking.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor; leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Keywords: Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry, Sweet and Savory Stir-Fry, Easy Chicken Recipe, Weeknight Dinner, Asian Chicken Stir-Fry