As a child, I remember the vibrant colors and sweet aromas that filled our kitchen whenever my mom made her famous stir fry. The mix of tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and crisp vegetables was always a hit, and it brought our family together for a cheerful meal. This Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry is more than just a dish; it’s a warm reminder of those family dinners. I love how its sweetness balances out the savory flavors, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. You’ll find it quick to prepare, colorful on your plate, and packed with fresh ingredients—perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend feast.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry if you want a meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. With its balance of flavors, this recipe brings a tropical twist to a classic stir fry. It’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables while enjoying the sweet and savory taste of pineapple and chicken. Plus, it’s ready in no time, making it a fantastic choice for busy evenings when you crave something wholesome and satisfying.
How to Make Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients
- Chicken breast
- Pineapple chunks
- Bell peppers
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Soy sauce
- Honey
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Cooking oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Directions
- Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and stir-fry until golden and cooked through.
- Add garlic and ginger, stirring for 30 seconds.
- Add the pineapple chunks and fresh vegetables, stirring well.
- Pour in soy sauce and honey, mixing until vegetables are tender yet crisp.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.
How to Serve Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry
Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry is best served hot and can be enjoyed over a bed of steamed rice or tossed with noodles. You can also garnish it with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra touch. This dish can be a delightful main course, filled with colorful ingredients that make your meal not only tasty but visually appealing too.
How to Store Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry
To store leftovers, let the stir fry cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Tips to Make Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry
- Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture. Bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots work great, but feel free to add your favorites.
- If you like it spicy, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or pineapple chunks if desired.
- For a faster meal, you can prep everything in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by swapping out the chicken for shrimp or tofu to cater to different dietary preferences. Additionally, try using different fruits like mango or peaches for a unique twist.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as they may release extra moisture.
- What can I pair with Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry? It goes well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You might also serve it with a side of egg rolls or a fresh salad.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients ahead, and store them in the fridge. Just cook it right before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Chicken breast Cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup Pineapple chunks Fresh or canned
- 2 cups Bell peppers Chopped
- 1 cup Broccoli Cut into florets
- 1 cup Carrots Sliced
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Honey Can adjust sweetness to taste
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 teaspoon Ginger Minced or grated
- 2 tablespoons Cooking oil For stir-frying
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Method
Preparation
- Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking
- In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and stir-fry until golden and cooked through.
- Add garlic and ginger, stirring for 30 seconds.
- Add the pineapple chunks and fresh vegetables, stirring well.
- Pour in soy sauce and honey, mixing until vegetables are tender yet crisp.
Serving
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.