Tangy Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry

Name: Tangy Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, sliced; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup snap peas; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon water; Optional: sliced green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Global Meals

I love whipping up this Tangy Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry on busy weeknights. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but the combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates a flavor explosion that the whole family loves. I appreciate how vibrant and colorful the dish looks, thanks to the fresh vegetables. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a tropical twist during any season, and I always have the ingredients on hand.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-29T23:07:28.240Z

When I first tried making a Hawaiian-inspired meal, I was surprised at how well pineapple pairs with chicken. The sauce, a delightful blend of soy sauce and garlic, enhances the natural sweetness of the pineapple while adding a savory depth. I made sure to cook the chicken until perfectly tender, which helps it soak up all the flavors.

One of the tips I learned is to chop the vegetables evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. I like to use colorful bell peppers and snap peas for a vibrant presentation and crunch. The balance of textures elevates this dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty pineapple flavor that brightens up the dish
Quick preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners
Packed with colorful veggies for a nutritious boost
A one-pan meal that minimizes cleanup

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

For this Tangy Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry, using fresh ingredients can significantly enhance the flavor. Fresh pineapple not only adds a juicy, sweet burst but its acidity helps tenderize the chicken. If using canned, ensure you choose pineapple in juice, not syrup, to avoid an overly sweet dish. Fresh bell peppers add a crunch and vibrant color, while snap peas offer a slight sweetness and crisp texture. Make sure to prep all your ingredients ahead of time, as stir-frying is a quick process.

Incorporating aromatics like garlic is crucial for building depth in this dish. I recommend mincing the garlic just before adding it to the skillet to capture its pungent aroma. Cooking garlic until it's fragrant but not browned means you'll get all its flavor without the bitterness. If you want to elevate the dish further, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly grated ginger, which pairs beautifully with the pineapple.

Perfecting the Stir-Fry Technique

The key to a successful stir fry is high heat and quick cooking. Preheat your skillet or wok over medium-high heat to achieve those coveted sear marks on the chicken. When the oil shimmers, it’s time to add the chicken. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches to promote even cooking and browning. Overcooking it will dry out the meat, so look for a golden color and firm texture as cues that it's done, taking only 5-7 minutes.

When adding the vegetables, remember to keep them moving in the skillet. This prevents burning and ensures they cook evenly, achieving that tender-crisp texture that makes your stir fry memorable. If your vegetables are soggy, it may be a sign they were overcooked or the heat was too low. Cooking them just until vibrant in color and slightly softened should be your goal, usually around 3-4 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Tangy Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry:

For the Stir Fry

1 pound chicken breast, sliced
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup snap peas
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
Optional: sliced green onions for garnish

Make sure to wash your vegetables thoroughly before using them.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Add the bell pepper, snap peas, and garlic to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, and water. Mix well and add to the skillet. Stir to combine, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Incorporate Pineapple

Fold in the pineapple chunks, allowing them to heat through for about 2 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with green onions if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Tangy Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry with steamed rice or noodles!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables for added variety, such as broccoli or carrots. For a spicier kick, you can add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers from this Tangy Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the chicken tender and the vegetables fresh, avoid reheating in the microwave. Instead, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, consider prepping all ingredients in advance and storing them separately. This way, you can quickly stir-fry everything when you’re ready to eat. Just be cautious with pre-cut vegetables; they may lose some crispness if stored too long. Additionally, the sauce can also be made a day ahead, which will allow the flavors to meld even further.

Creative Variations

Feel free to customize this stir fry by adding your favorite vegetables based on what you have available. Baby corn, zucchini, or even broccoli can be excellent additions. Just remember to adjust the cooking times based on the vegetables’ textures; heartier veggies might need a bit longer in the stir fry. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or tempeh for a different protein option, adjusting the cooking time as necessary to ensure they're cooked through.

If you’d like to enhance the sweetness or add a hint of heat, consider incorporating chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce. Alternatively, for a sweeter touch, you can increase the honey slightly or add in some diced mango. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to cater to your family's tastes, making every cook-up a brand-new experience!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen pineapple for this recipe?

Yes, frozen pineapple works well, but make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the stir fry.

→ What can I serve with this stir fry?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or even quinoa for a healthier option.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.