Add a tropical twist to your dinner with this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry. Perfect for those nights when you need a quick yet satisfying meal, this dish brings together tender chicken, vibrant red bell peppers, and juicy pineapple chunks, all coated in a rich, flavorful sauce. The blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, hoisin, and brown sugar creates a harmonious balance of sweet and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Ready in just minutes, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cleaned and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 3/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/3 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons corn starch
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon sliced green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil reaches the right temperature, add the chicken chunks. Season the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper, then cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet with the chicken.
- Incorporate the Vegetables: Add the red bell pepper and pineapple chunks to the skillet. Stir-fry the mixture for 3-4 minutes, until the bell pepper starts to soften and the pineapple is heated through.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, chicken broth, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to avoid lumps.
- Combine and Thicken: Pour the sauce into the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to combine, making sure everything is coated evenly with the sauce Let the mixture cook gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring from time to time, until the sauce reaches your preferred thickness.
- Finish and Garnish: Once the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the stir-fry with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor and a pop of color.
- Serve: Serve your Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry over steamed rice, quinoa, or your favorite grain. Enjoy this deliciously balanced dish with its perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors!
Conclusion:
This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful meal that brings together the vibrant tastes of the tropics with the comforting heartiness of chicken. The combination of tender chicken, crisp bell peppers, and juicy pineapple chunks, all bathed in a rich and flavorful sauce, creates a dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine or impress your guests, this stir-fry is sure to satisfy.