Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry

Pineapple chicken stir fry recipe
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When it comes to quick, healthy, and irresistibly flavorful dinners, pineapple chicken stir fry is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Picture tender chicken bites tossed with vibrant vegetables, coated in a sweet and savory sauce, and complemented by juicy pineapple chunks that add a delightful tropical twist.

Whether you’re looking for a fresh weeknight dinner or a meal to impress your loved ones, this dish ticks all the boxes.

This pineapple chicken stir fry is a lifesaver when I want something easy but packed with flavor. It’s also perfect for brightening up dull winter evenings or making the most of summer’s vibrant produce.

Not to mention, the balance of sweet and savory flavors brings a little vacation vibe to your dinner table, no matter the season.

This recipe is great because it’s versatile, you can swap out vegetables, adjust the spice level, or even use canned pineapple when fresh is unavailable. Plus, it’s an excellent way to get a healthy dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive in!


Why You’ll Love It

  • Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with lean protein, fiber-packed vegetables, and vitamin C-rich pineapple, it’s a balanced meal.
  • Customizable: You can mix and match vegetables, use fresh or canned pineapple, and even swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef.
  • A Burst of Flavor: The combination of sweet pineapple, savory soy sauce, and aromatic ginger and garlic creates a flavor explosion.

Ingredient List

To make this delicious pineapple chicken stir fry, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Stir Fry

  • Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Vegetables:
    • 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
    • 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced
    • 1 medium onion, sliced
    • 1 cup snap peas
    • 2 medium carrots, julienned
    • 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (or canned pineapple, drained)
  • Aromatics:
    • 3 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Sauce

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan alternative)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Serving

  • Cooked jasmine rice or noodles
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Chopped green onions (for garnish)

More Recipes >>>>> Cajun Shrimp And Rice Skillet


Kitchen Tools Needed

Before you start cooking, gather these kitchen essentials:

  • Cutting board: For chopping chicken, vegetables, and pineapple.
  • Sharp knife: To ensure clean cuts for even cooking.
  • Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying everything together.
  • Tongs or spatula: To toss the ingredients as they cook.
  • Mixing bowls: For preparing the sauce and marinating the chicken.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: To measure the sauce ingredients accurately.
  • Grater or microplane: For grating fresh ginger.

Cooking Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken
    • In a mixing bowl, season the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper.
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in your wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add the chicken and stir-fry until cooked through and golden, about 5–6 minutes.
    • Remove from the wok and set aside.
  2. Cook the Vegetables
    • In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil.
    • Toss in the garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
    • Add the carrots, snap peas, bell peppers, and onion.
    • Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes, keeping the vegetables crisp-tender.
  3. Add the Pineapple
    • Add the pineapple chunks to the wok and stir-fry for 2 minutes to release their natural sweetness.
  4. Prepare the Sauce
    • In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water).
  5. Combine and Simmer
    • Return the chicken to the wok and pour in the sauce.
    • Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the ingredients.
  6. Serve
    • Remove from heat and serve hot over cooked jasmine rice or noodles.
    • Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

More Recipes >>>>>> Tasty Bourbon Chicken

pineapple chicken stir fry skillet

Tips and Tricks for Success

  1. Cut Ingredients Uniformly
    • Cut the chicken, vegetables, and pineapple into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
  2. Use High Heat
    • Stir-frying works best on high heat to create a slightly charred, smoky flavor while keeping the vegetables crisp.
  3. Prep Everything in Advance
    • Since stir-frying happens quickly, have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.
  4. Adjust the Sweetness
    • If you prefer a less sweet stir-fry, reduce the honey or substitute it with a savory option like hoisin sauce.
  5. Don’t Overcrowd the Wok
    • Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying. Cook in batches if needed.
  6. Add Heat for Spice Lovers
    • If you like it spicy, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha or chili oil to the sauce.

This pineapple chicken stir fry is easy to adapt, quick to make, and absolutely delicious.

More Recipes >>>>>> Chicken And Vegetable Stir Fry

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this pineapple chicken stir fry is how customizable it is! Here are some ideas:

  • Chicken Substitutes: Use shrimp, beef strips, pork, or tofu for a different protein option.
  • Vegetable Swaps: Try broccoli, zucchini, baby corn, mushrooms, or bok choy if you don’t have the suggested vegetables.
  • Pineapple Alternatives: Mango or peaches can be used for a similar sweet and tangy flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
  • Vegan Option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and swap honey for maple syrup.
  • Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of regular rice.

Serving Suggestions

  • Side Dishes: Pair the stir fry with steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a classic touch. For a healthier option, serve with quinoa or brown rice.
  • On the Side: Add egg rolls, spring rolls, or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.
  • Toppings: Garnish with sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, or a squeeze of lime for added flavor and texture.
  • Family-Style: Serve in a large bowl and let everyone spoon their desired portion over rice or noodles.

More Recipes >>>>>> Chicken And Asparagus Stir Fry

pineapple chicken stir fry 1

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Storage:
    • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
    • If freezing, place the stir fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Note that frozen vegetables may lose some texture after reheating.
  • Reheating:
    • Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir frequently until warmed through.
    • Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully heated.
    • Frozen Stir Fry: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating using one of the methods above.

More Recipes >>>>>> Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry


FAQ

Q: Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to drain the juice before adding the pineapple to avoid making the stir fry too watery.

Q: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
A: Avoid overcooking the chicken. Cook it just until it’s no longer pink, then remove it from the wok while you cook the vegetables.

Q: Can I make this dish spicy?
A: Yes! Add more red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili paste to the sauce for an extra kick.

Q: What can I do if my sauce isn’t thickening?
A: If your sauce is too thin, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the wok. Let it simmer for another minute or two.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prep the vegetables and sauce in advance. Cook the stir fry fresh for the best flavor, or reheat it as directed above if making ahead.

This recipe is versatile, simple to prepare, and full of vibrant flavors. It’s a guaranteed hit with family and friends!

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!

pineapple chicken stir fry 1

Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry

Picture tender chicken bites tossed with vibrant vegetables, coated in a sweet and savory sauce, and complemented by juicy pineapple chunks that add a delightful tropical twist. Whether you're looking for a fresh weeknight dinner or a meal to impress your loved ones, this dish ticks all the boxes.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Fusion
Servings 4 servings
Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

  • Cutting board
  • Sharp Knife
  • Wok or Large Skillet
  • Tongs or Spatula
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Grater or Microplane

Ingredients
  

For the Stir Fry

  • Chicken: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables:

  • 1 medium red bell pepper sliced
  • 1 medium green bell pepper sliced
  • 1 medium onion sliced
  • 1 cup snap peas
  • 2 medium carrots julienned
  • 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks or canned pineapple, drained

Aromatics:

  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated

For the Sauce

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup for a vegan alternative
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water for thickening
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat

For Serving

  • Cooked jasmine rice or noodles
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken

  • In a mixing bowl, season the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in your wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the chicken and stir-fry until cooked through and golden, about 5–6 minutes.
  • Remove from the wok and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

  • In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil.
  • Toss in the garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the carrots, snap peas, bell peppers, and onion.
  • Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes, keeping the vegetables crisp-tender.

Add the Pineapple

  • Add the pineapple chunks to the wok and stir-fry for 2 minutes to release their natural sweetness.

Prepare the Sauce

  • In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water).

Combine and Simmer

  • Return the chicken to the wok and pour in the sauce.
  • Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the ingredients.

Serve

  • Remove from heat and serve hot over cooked jasmine rice or noodles.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Notes

Nutritional Value (per serving, approximate)

  • Calories: 380
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
    • Sugars: 18g (from pineapple and honey)
  • Fat: 11g
    • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 780mg (adjust based on soy sauce used)
Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment and rating!
Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Keyword easy stir fry, pineapple chicken stir fry recipe, quick dinner recipes, stir fry recipes


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