Pineapple Chicken is a vibrant, sweet-and-savory stir-fry that brings tropical flair to your dinner table with its colorful presentation and irresistible flavor combination. This recipe features tender pieces of chicken coated in a crispy cornstarch crust, then tossed with crisp bell peppers, sweet pineapple chunks, and a glossy, perfectly balanced sauce. The sauce is the true star—a harmonious blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar that thickens to a luxurious consistency while coating every ingredient in a sweet-tangy glaze. What makes this dish exceptional is its textural contrast: the crispy chicken, the crunchy vegetables, and the juicy pineapple create a symphony of textures that keeps every bite interesting. The fresh ginger and garlic provide an aromatic foundation that elevates the entire dish beyond typical takeout versions.
The technique behind this Pineapple Chicken ensures each component shines while coming together in a cohesive final dish. Coating the chicken in cornstarch before frying creates a delicate, crispy exterior that later soaks up the sauce without becoming soggy. Cooking the components in stages—chicken first, then vegetables, then sauce—prevents overcrowding and ensures everything cooks to perfection. The vegetables maintain a pleasant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and soft pineapple. The sauce thickens at the end, allowing you to control the consistency and ensure it clings perfectly to each ingredient. This method may seem involved, but it’s what separates mediocre stir-fry from restaurant-quality results. Served over steamed rice, this Pineapple Chicken delivers a taste of the tropics with the satisfying comfort of a well-executed stir-fry.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Perfect Flavor Balance: Sweet pineapple and savory soy sauce create an irresistible combination
• Textural Variety: Crispy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and juicy pineapple
• Vibrant Presentation: Colorful peppers and pineapple make this dish visually appealing
• Better Than Takeout: Fresh ingredients and controlled sweetness surpass restaurant versions
Ingredients:
Sauce:
• ¾ cup pineapple juice
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
Chicken and Vegetables:
• 1½ lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
• ⅓ cup cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 3-4 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger or ginger paste
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Sauce
• In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Coat and Cook Chicken
• In a large zip-top bag, combine cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and shake to coat evenly.
• Heat 2-3 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Working in batches, cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 3: Cook Vegetables and Pineapple
• Heat 1 tablespoon oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook for 2 minutes.
• Add bell peppers and pineapple chunks, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp. Transfer to a plate.
Step 4: Create and Thicken Sauce
• Reduce heat to low and add 1 teaspoon oil to the skillet. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Whisk the sauce mixture again and add to the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
• Return chicken, vegetables, and pineapple to the skillet. Toss gently to coat with the sauce and heat through.
• Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately over steamed rice.
Tips:
• Dry Chicken: Pat chicken pieces dry before coating for better browning
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches to ensure proper crisping
• Fresh Pineapple: Use fresh pineapple when available for superior flavor and texture
• Sauce Consistency: If sauce becomes too thick, thin with a tablespoon of water or additional pineapple juice
Storage Options:
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheating: Reheat gently on stovetop to maintain texture
• Freezing: Not recommended as the crispy coating will become soft upon thawing
Pineapple Chicken is the ultimate sweet-and-savory dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen. Its perfect balance of textures and vibrant colors make it a meal that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate, guaranteed to become a family favorite.
