If you are craving a vibrant, tropical twist on classic stir fry, look no further because this Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is here to brighten up your dinner table. It combines juicy chunks of chicken with sweet and tangy pineapple, crisp bell peppers, and a touch of spice that will send your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure. Every bite is a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it not only a feast for your palate but also a rainbow on your plate. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to for a quick, satisfying meal that never feels ordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the dish’s unique flavor profile and vibrant color. From the tender chicken coated in fish sauce to the fresh pineapple chunks bursting with natural sweetness, every component contributes to the overall delicious harmony.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast: Cut into 1-inch cubes for quick, even cooking and perfect bite-sized pieces.
- 1 tbsp fish sauce: Adds an umami depth that elevates the savory flavors of the chicken.
- 2 tbsp cornstarch: Ensures a light, crispy coating on the chicken when stir-fried.
- 1 tbsp oil (divided): Use a neutral oil suitable for high heat to achieve a nice sear without burning.
- 1 tsp garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
- 1 tsp fresh ginger (minced): Gives a zesty, fresh kick that mellows the sweetness perfectly.
- 2 cups bell peppers (assorted colors, cut 1/2-inch cubes): Provides crisp texture and vibrant colors, making the dish visually appealing and flavorful.
- 1 red chili pepper (chopped, optional or to taste): Adds a customizable heat element for those who love a bit of spice.
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks: Sweet and juicy, they bring a tropical pop that pairs remarkably with the savory chicken.
- 1/3 cup Thai sweet chili sauce: This sauce ties all the flavors together with its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes.
- Cilantro leaves (for garnish): Fresh and bright, cilantro adds the perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by mixing the cubed chicken with fish sauce in a medium bowl. This early marination infuses the chicken with umami-rich flavor, creating a savory foundation. Then add the cornstarch and toss everything together until the chicken pieces are completely coated. This coating helps to develop a slightly crispy texture when stir-fried, which contrasts beautifully with the tender veggies and juicy pineapple.
Step 2: Start the Aromatics
Heat half of the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and ginger and quickly stir fry for about 30 seconds. This step releases that heady aromatic base that will permeate the entire dish, creating a fragrant, inviting aroma that makes your kitchen smell incredible.
Step 3: Cook the Veggies and Pineapple
Add the colorful bell peppers, red chili pepper if you like some heat, and the fresh pineapple chunks to the skillet. Stir fry these for 3 to 5 minutes, just until the peppers are tender-crisp. This timing is key — you want the vegetables to stay vibrant and crunchy while the pineapple starts to caramelize slightly, intensifying its natural sweetness. Next, stir in the Thai sweet chili sauce and cook just until everything is heated through. Remove this mixture from the skillet to prepare space for the chicken.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
In the same skillet, heat the remaining oil and then add the chicken pieces. Stir fry for about 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked thoroughly and develops a nice golden crust. This step seals in the juices making each bite tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the colorful bell pepper and pineapple mixture back into the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together to blend the flavors well, allowing the sauce to coat every piece evenly. This final stir brings harmony to the Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry Recipe and sets it up to be served piping hot.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
After turning off the heat, sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves on top for a bright, herbal contrast that complements the sweet and spicy elements perfectly. Now it’s ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro leaves are classic here, but you might also consider a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions for an added layer of flavor and texture that’s visually appealing and tasty.
Side Dishes
This Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The fluffy rice soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying. Alternatively, serve it alongside fried rice or noodles to mix things up.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun and festive touch, serve the stir fry inside hollowed-out pineapple halves. It’s impressive for dinner parties or family gatherings and highlights the tropical profile of the dish. Another idea is to serve it over a bed of lightly stir-fried baby bok choy or snap peas, adding even more texture and freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though they rarely stick around), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, which makes this dish perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry Recipe, though the pineapple may change slightly in texture once thawed. Pack it tightly in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispness of the bell peppers and freshness of the chicken. Adjust the seasoning slightly if needed and avoid microwaving for too long to prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use frozen pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes! Frozen pineapple works well in a pinch. Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the stir fry to avoid extra moisture diluting the sauce.
Is fish sauce necessary in this recipe?
Fish sauce adds a unique depth of flavor and umami that’s hard to replicate, but if you’re not a fan, you can substitute it with soy sauce for a milder taste.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level depends on your preference and the amount of red chili pepper you add. Feel free to omit the chili altogether if you prefer a milder dish, or add more if you like it hot.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will make the dish a bit juicier and perhaps more flavorful, though they may take a couple minutes longer to cook.
What’s the best way to cut bell peppers for stir fry?
Cutting bell peppers into uniform 1/2-inch cubes ensures even cooking and a nice balance of crunch and tenderness in every bite.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is a wonderful way to bring bright, fresh flavors and a splash of sunshine onto your dinner table any night of the week. The combination of sweet pineapple with savory chicken and colorful veggies creates a dish that’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. Give it a try and I promise it will become a cherished favorite in your recipe rotation!
Print
Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry featuring tender cubes of chicken breast tossed with sweet pineapple chunks, colorful bell peppers, and a tangy Thai sweet chili sauce, all quickly cooked to perfection in a hot skillet for a delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
Vegetables & Fruit
- 2 cups bell peppers, assorted colors, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 red chili pepper, chopped (optional or to taste)
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
Other Ingredients
- 1 tbsp oil, divided
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1/3 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- Cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a medium bowl, mix the chicken cubes with fish sauce. Add cornstarch and toss everything to coat the chicken evenly. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Heat Oil for Aromatics: Place a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add half a tablespoon of oil. Heat until shimmering.
- Cook Garlic and Ginger: Add minced garlic and ginger to the skillet and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, stirring continuously, to release their fragrance without burning.
- Cook Vegetables and Pineapple: Add the diced bell peppers, optional chopped red chili pepper, and fresh pineapple chunks to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3 to 5 minutes until the peppers are tender-crisp. Pour in the Thai sweet chili sauce and cook while stirring until everything is heated through. Remove this mixture from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Add the remaining oil to the skillet and heat it. Add the coated chicken pieces and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.
- Combine and Finish: Return the bell pepper and pineapple mixture to the skillet with the chicken. Stir-fry together briefly until well combined and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve immediately for a bright, tasty meal.
Notes
- If you prefer less heat, omit the red chili pepper or adjust the quantity to your taste.
- Serve with steamed white rice or jasmine rice for a complete meal.
- Feel free to substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- Ensure the skillet is hot enough before stir-frying to get a nice sear on the ingredients.
