Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry

Bring bold vibrant flavors to your table with juicy chicken thighs sweet pineapple and crisp red bell pepper all tossed in a glossy sesame scented sauce In just half an hour everything comes together in one pan from browning the chicken to simmering it with pineapple juice soy and hoisin then finishing with sesame seeds and green onions This is a bright and balanced dish that makes weeknight cooking both easy and exciting

I first made this on a weeknight when I was craving takeout and now it has become one of my go to dinners My kids especially love the caramelized pineapple pieces that always disappear first from the pan

Ingredients

• Vegetable oil: gives a smooth base for high heat cooking A neutral oil such as canola or grapeseed works best
• Chicken thighs: stay juicy and tender Choose organic or free range if you can for rich flavor
• Red bell pepper: adds crunch and natural sweetness Select firm glossy peppers without blemishes
• Pineapple chunks: provide fruity brightness Fresh gives the sharpest flavor but drained canned is excellent too
• Garlic and ginger: bring fragrance and depth Use fresh pieces for the most aroma and warmth
• Pineapple juice: ties all the flavors together offering natural sweetness
• Soy sauce: provides umami and saltiness Opt for low sodium for better control
• Chicken broth: rounds out the sauce Choose low sodium cartons for flexibility
• Hoisin sauce: layers in savory sweet complexity Look for quality brands with simple ingredients
• Brown sugar: balances acidity and deepens caramel notes
• Cornstarch: thickens the sauce to glossy perfection Mix with cold water for best results
• Sesame seeds and green onions: finish with crunch and freshness Toast seeds briefly for more flavor
• Salt and pepper: ensure balance Use freshly ground black pepper when possible

Step by Step Instructions

Cook the Chicken:

Heat oil in a large pan over medium high Season chicken with salt and pepper Add pieces to the pan and let them brown undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring Cook six to eight minutes until golden and cooked through

Add Vegetables and Pineapple:

Stir in red bell pepper and pineapple chunks Cook four to five minutes until pepper softens and pineapple begins to release juice Add garlic and ginger cooking for about thirty seconds until fragrant

Prepare the Sauce:

In a bowl whisk together pineapple juice soy sauce chicken broth hoisin and brown sugar until smooth

Combine Sauce and Chicken:

Pour sauce into the hot pan It should bubble right away Stir well so chicken and vegetables are evenly coated Bring to a gentle simmer

Thicken the Sauce:

Mix cornstarch with a little cold water to form a slurry Stir into the simmering pan and cook about a minute until the sauce thickens and turns glossy

Finish and Serve:

Remove from heat Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top Serve hot with rice or noodles spooning sauce generously over each portion

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The caramelized pineapple is always my favorite part I grew up eating grilled pineapple on family vacations and the flavor here brings back those memories every time My kids often sneak pieces straight from the pan before dinner is served

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce Fresh pineapple does not freeze well but canned holds up better if you need to store longer

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken breasts or tofu work well if thighs are not available For a gluten free version use tamari instead of soy sauce Ground ginger can replace fresh though the flavor will be milder

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice Thick noodles also make a great base Pair with stir fried snap peas or green beans for crunch Serve family style with extra toasted sesame seeds on the side

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Cultural Context

This stir fry takes inspiration from Chinese sweet and sour flavors but adapts them with pantry staples Pineapple became popular in Americanized stir fries in the mid twentieth century to balance strong sauces Today the mix of sweet fruit and savory meat has become a beloved fusion style around the world

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well but cooks faster. Keep an eye on the timing to prevent the meat from drying out.

→ Is fresh pineapple necessary?

Both fresh and canned pineapple work beautifully. Fresh gives tangy brightness while canned adds sweetness and convenience.

→ How do I thicken the sauce?

A cornstarch slurry stirred into the pan thickens the sauce quickly. Let it bubble for a minute until glossy.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it keeps in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to refresh the sauce.

→ What pairs best with this stir fry?

Steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or thick noodles are perfect bases. Stir fried vegetables like snap peas add freshness.

→ Can I adjust the sweetness?

Absolutely. Reduce the brown sugar or add a splash of rice vinegar to create a more tangy balance if preferred.