Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple

Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple is a classic dish that blends crispy fried chicken with a tangy-sweet sauce and vibrant veggies. The addition of pineapple adds a tropical flair and natural sweetness that complements the savory elements beautifully. Whether you’re a fan of Asian-inspired cuisine or just looking for a quick, satisfying dinner, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
• Quick to prepare—ideal for busy weeknights
• Family-friendly and kid-approved
• Tastes even better than takeout
• Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or protein

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless
• Cornstarch
• Vegetable oil
• Red bell pepper
• Green bell pepper
• Yellow onion
• Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• Garlic
• Ketchup
• Brown sugar
• Apple cider vinegar
• Soy sauce
• Water
• Salt and pepper

Directions

this recipe

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss with cornstarch until well coated.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and bell peppers until they begin to soften.
4. Add the garlic and pineapple chunks, stir-frying for another minute.
5. In a bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and water to create the sauce.
6. Pour the sauce into the skillet and let it simmer for a few minutes until it begins to thicken.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
8. Serve hot over white rice, brown rice, or noodles.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian version
• Add snap peas, broccoli, or carrots for extra veggies
• Swap pineapple for mango for a different fruity twist
• Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick
• Use shrimp or pork as a protein alternative

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• You can freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well. Thighs are more flavorful and juicy, while breasts are leaner.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, canned pineapple is convenient and works great. Just make sure to drain the juice before using.

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

For maximum crispiness, serve the sauce over the chicken just before eating instead of letting it sit in the sauce for too long.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Absolutely. Bake the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and check your ketchup and vinegar to ensure they are gluten-free.

What can I serve this with?

It’s perfect over steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

How can I thicken the sauce more?

Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the simmering sauce until it thickens.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes. You can make the sauce and chop the veggies in advance. Store them separately and assemble everything when ready to cook.

Does the pineapple make it too sweet?

The sweetness is balanced by the tangy vinegar and savory soy sauce. You can adjust the sugar to taste.

Can I add other fruits?

Sure! Try mango, mandarin oranges, or even peaches for a fun twist on the classic.

Conclusion

Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple is the perfect dish for when you’re craving bold flavors with minimal effort. It’s fast, flavorful, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping for the week, this recipe is a must-try.

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