Tangy Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry

Name: Tangy Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced; 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup snap peas; 1/2 onion, sliced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love a good stir fry, and this Tangy Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry truly hits the spot! The combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken is an absolute delight. As I toss everything together in the pan, the bright colors and fragrances fill my kitchen, making it feel like a tropical escape. It’s such a fast and easy dish to prepare, yet it feels gourmet every time. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe never fails to impress!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T01:15:28.883Z

When I first decided to make a pineapple stir fry, I wasn't sure how the flavors would come together. But with each bite, I fell more in love with the sweet-tangy notes the pineapple added to the tender chicken. My secret? Using fresh pineapple ensures that the dish is bursting with flavor and avoids the canned taste that can sometimes occur.

Cooking the vegetables just until they're crisp-tender retains their shape and color, adding to the dish's overall appeal. Plus, I’ve found that adding a splash of soy sauce at the end enhances all the flavors beautifully, creating a perfect glaze over everything. You’ll want to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, flavorful combination of tangy and sweet flavors
Quick preparation that brings dinner to the table in under 30 minutes
Packed with vibrant veggies and healthy protein for a balanced meal

Ingredient Insights

The chicken in this stir fry serves as a lean source of protein that absorbs the flavors of the dish wonderfully. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a quick-cooking option, but you can easily substitute with chicken thighs for a richer taste. Thighs tend to stay juicier, making them an excellent alternative if you're looking for added moisture in your stir fry.

Pineapple is not just a sweet addition but also provides a tangy brightness that balances the savory elements in this dish. Fresh pineapple is ideal, but if you only have canned pineapple on hand, look for those packed in juice rather than syrup to maintain the dish's overall flavor balance. Make sure to drain it well to prevent excess moisture in the stir fry.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking the chicken, ensuring your skillet is properly heated is crucial. Using medium-high heat allows for a quick browning, which enhances the flavor through caramelization. If you find your chicken lingering and sticking to the pan, your heat may not be high enough; a good sear will help release it naturally. It's vital to not overcrowd the pan—if necessary, cook the chicken in batches to achieve that golden-brown crust.

Adding the vegetables at the right time is also essential for maintaining their vibrant colors and crisp textures. You want to aim for tender-crisp vegetables, so keep an eye on the time. Stir-fry the bell peppers, onions, and snap peas for just three to four minutes, stirring frequently. This not only ensures they cook evenly but also helps to keep them bright and appealing when served.

Ingredients

For the Stir Fry

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup snap peas
1/2 onion, sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare Ingredients

Slice the chicken breasts and vegetables. Dice the pineapple and set aside.

Cook Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the onion, bell pepper, and snap peas. Continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Incorporate Pineapple

Add the diced pineapple to the skillet and stir to combine. Pour in the soy sauce and optionally, the cornstarch for thickening. Stir well and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve warm over rice or noodles if desired.

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the dish during cooking. This stir fry also pairs well with quinoa for a healthier grain option.

Serving Suggestions

To serve this Tangy Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry, I recommend a bed of fluffy white rice or chewy noodles that can soak up the flavorful sauce. For a healthier alternative, you can use quinoa or cauliflower rice, which adds a nice texture and makes the dish lower in carbohydrates while maintaining its delightful taste.

Consider topping the finished dish with sesame seeds or a sprinkle of sliced green onions for added crunch and color. If you're feeling adventurous, a dash of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha can introduce a welcomed heat that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.

Make-Ahead Tips

This stir fry is perfect for meal prepping! You can slice the chicken and chop the vegetables up to a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. I also recommend cutting the pineapple just before cooking to prevent it from browning and losing its juiciness.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply return it to a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it from drying out. This recipe also freezes well—just store it in an airtight container for up to three months.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables instead?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used. Just ensure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Broccoli, carrots, and zucchini are great additions to this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat in the microwave before serving.