The aroma of Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry wafts through the kitchen like a tropical breeze, making it impossible to resist. With its vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors, this dish turns any ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure.

Imagine biting into tender chicken pieces coated in a tangy sauce while sweet pineapple chunks burst with flavor. It’s a party on your palate, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings when you want to impress without the fuss.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights
- The balance of sweet and savory flavors appeals to all taste buds
- Its vibrant colors create a stunning dish that looks as good as it tastes
- You can easily adapt the recipe based on available ingredients or personal preferences
Every time I make this dish, my friends’ eyes light up like kids at a candy store. They never fail to ask for seconds, which makes me feel like a culinary rock star.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best adjust based on how many hungry mouths you need to feed.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
- Red Bell Pepper: A colorful addition that adds sweetness and crunch pick ones that feel heavy for their size.
- Pineapple Chunks: Fresh or canned just make sure they’re juicy and sweet for that perfect zing.
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while keeping those umami vibes alive.
- Brown Sugar: Just a touch creates the perfect balance between sweet and tangy don’t skip it
- Rice Vinegar: This adds that necessary acidity grab unseasoned rice vinegar for best results.
- Vegetable Oil: Use this for frying it has a high smoke point and won’t overpower the other flavors.
- Green Onions: These add freshness and color slice them just before serving for maximum crunch.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping chicken into bite-sized pieces. Dice garlic and slice bell pepper into strips. Have your pineapple ready because things are about to get fruity
Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and some water until combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thickened taste it if you dare
Heat the Pan: Grab a large skillet or wok and heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when little bubbles form around your wooden spoon.
Cook the Chicken: Add seasoned chicken pieces to the pan in a single layer. Sauté until golden brown on all sides about 5-7 minutes smelling incredible already
Stir-Fry Veggies: Toss in garlic, bell pepper, and pineapple chunks. Stir-fry everything together until veggies soften slightly but still have some crunch about 3-4 minutes will do.
Add Sauce & Serve: Pour in your whisked sauce over the stir-fried goodness. Cook until everything is well-coated and heated through another 2-3 minutes should suffice Garnish with green onions before dishing out.
Enjoy your Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry hot over steamed rice or noodles Trust me every bite will take you straight to flavor paradise
You Must Know
- Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry is a colorful dish loaded with flavor
- The balance of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates an irresistible combination that delights the senses
- This dish is not only quick to prepare but also offers endless customization to suit your taste buds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. While it marinates, chop vegetables and pineapples. Sear the chicken first for that golden crust, then stir-fry with veggies.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different proteins like shrimp or tofu. Experiment with spices adding ginger can elevate the flavor profile significantly. Toss in extra veggies for added nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on medium heat in a skillet to maintain texture, adding a splash of water if necessary.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry, use fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken it should remain juicy and tender
- A hot pan ensures proper searing, enhancing the dish’s overall taste
Creating this Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry brought back memories of family dinners where laughter filled the air as we shared our favorite dishes.
FAQ
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Canned pineapple works well, but fresh offers a brighter flavor and better texture.
What can I serve with this stir-fry?
Serve it over rice or noodles for a hearty meal that satisfies.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers during cooking for extra heat.

Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry is a vibrant dish that beautifully balances the sweetness of pineapple with savory chicken. Bursting with colors and flavors, this quick and easy stir-fry is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. In just one skillet, you’ll create a delicious meal that tantalizes the taste buds and leaves everyone asking for more!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp unseasoned rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic and slice bell pepper.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and a splash of water.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add seasoned chicken to the pan in a single layer; sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Stir in garlic, bell pepper, and pineapple; cook for another 3-4 minutes until veggies are tender-crisp.
- Pour sauce over the mixture; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well-coated.
- Garnish with green onions before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg