Pineapple Chicken (Sweet & Savory Skillet Stir Fry)

Introduction

Pineapple chicken is one of those dishes that instantly brings bold flavor and vibrant color to the table. It’s sweet, savory, slightly tangy, and deeply satisfying—all while being quick enough for a busy weeknight. This Pineapple Chicken recipe by Sara Welch is a skillet-based stir fry that combines tender chicken thighs, juicy pineapple chunks, crisp bell peppers, and a glossy Asian-inspired sauce that coats every bite beautifully.

What makes this recipe especially appealing is its balance. The natural sweetness of pineapple and brown sugar pairs perfectly with salty soy sauce and rich hoisin sauce, while garlic and ginger add aromatic depth. The result is a dish that tastes complex and restaurant-worthy but is made with straightforward ingredients and simple techniques.

This pineapple chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it over steamed rice for a complete dinner, portion it out for meal prep, or enjoy leftovers the next day when the flavors have had even more time to develop. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, this recipe delivers consistent, crowd-pleasing results.

If you’re looking for a reliable Asian-fusion dinner that’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and visually appealing, this pineapple chicken deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
• Made in one skillet for easy cleanup
• Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
• Uses juicy chicken thighs for maximum tenderness
• Family-friendly and great for leftovers
• Works with fresh or canned pineapple

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe makes 4 servings. All ingredients and measurements are listed exactly as provided to ensure accuracy and consistency.

Stir Fry Base

• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1 inch pieces
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Vegetables and Fruit

• 1 red bell pepper, seeded, cored, and cut into 1 inch pieces
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)

Aromatics

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger

Sauce Ingredients

• 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

Thickener and Garnish

• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon sliced green onions

Tools & Equipment Needed

This pineapple chicken recipe comes together easily with basic kitchen tools:

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to ensure tender chicken and a perfectly thickened sauce.

Step 1: Heat the Pan and Cook the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste, then add them to the pan.

Cook the chicken for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.

Step 2: Add Bell Pepper and Pineapple

Add the red bell pepper and pineapple chunks to the pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bell pepper is tender but still slightly crisp.

Add the minced ginger and garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the following ingredients until fully combined:

• Pineapple juice
• Soy sauce
• Chicken broth
• Hoisin sauce
• Brown sugar

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Pour the sauce mixture into the pan with the chicken and vegetables. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water, stirring until smooth.

Add the cornstarch mixture to the pan and stir to combine. Bring the sauce to a boil and cook for 1 minute, or until the sauce has thickened and become glossy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the finished dish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

These tips help ensure success while keeping the recipe true to its original form.

Chicken Tips

• Chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor
• Cut pieces evenly to ensure uniform cooking

Pineapple Options

• Fresh pineapple adds brightness and texture
• Canned pineapple works well—just reserve the juice for the sauce
• Frozen pineapple is not recommended, as it releases excess moisture

Sauce Consistency

• Stir constantly after adding cornstarch to avoid lumps
• Cook only until thickened to prevent over-reduction

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This pineapple chicken is sweet-forward with a savory backbone. The hoisin sauce adds richness, soy sauce provides saltiness, and pineapple juice brings tangy sweetness. Ginger and garlic round everything out with warmth and aroma.

Best Side Dishes

• Steamed white or jasmine rice
• Brown rice for a heartier option
• Simple stir-fried vegetables
• Plain noodles

Nutritional Overview

This dish offers a balanced mix of protein and carbohydrates, with moderate fat content. The pineapple contributes natural sweetness and vitamin C, while chicken thighs provide protein and iron.

Nutritional values are estimates per serving.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

Make-Ahead

• Sauce ingredients can be whisked together up to 24 hours in advance
• Chicken can be cut and refrigerated ahead of time

Meal Prep

• Portion cooked pineapple chicken with rice into containers
• Store airtight for easy reheating

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are preferred for tenderness. If using chicken breast, be careful not to overcook.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. This dish reheats well and can be made a day in advance.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes. Use the pineapple chunks and reserve the juice for the sauce.

Why didn’t my sauce thicken?

Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved in cold water before adding it, and allow the sauce to come to a boil.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time Required
Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes

Serving Suggestions

For an attractive presentation:

• Serve over rice in shallow bowls
• Garnish generously with green onions and sesame seeds
• Spoon extra sauce over the top for added shine

This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet.

Recipe Variations (Using the Same Ingredients)

These ideas keep the ingredients the same while changing how the dish is enjoyed.

1. Rice Bowl Style
   Serve pineapple chicken over rice with extra sauce.
2. Family-Style Skillet Dinner
   Bring the skillet straight to the table for casual serving.
3. Leftover Lunch Bowls
   Reheat gently and enjoy as a next-day meal.
4. Stuffed Pineapple Presentation
   Serve in a hollowed pineapple half for visual impact (presentation only).

Ingredient Spotlight

Pineapple

Pineapple adds sweetness, acidity, and juiciness. When using canned pineapple, always choose juice-packed pineapple and reserve the liquid for cooking.

Hoisin Sauce

Hoisin sauce brings depth, sweetness, and umami. Store it tightly sealed in the refrigerator after opening and stir before measuring.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Preheat the pan fully before adding chicken to get good browning
• Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming
• Add cornstarch slurry only once the sauce is simmering
• Serve immediately for best texture

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days

Freezing Guidelines

Freezing is not recommended, as pineapple and sauce texture may change when thawed.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	393 kcal
Protein	25 g
Carbohydrates	55 g
Fat	8 g
Saturated Fat	3 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	25 g
Sodium	615 mg

Dietary Notes: Dairy-free, nut-free, contains soy.

Expanded Conclusion

This Pineapple Chicken recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create bold, memorable flavor. It’s fast, reliable, and satisfying, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual entertaining. The sweet and savory sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant pineapple create a dish that feels both comforting and exciting.

If you’re looking for a dependable stir fry that delivers on taste and ease, this pineapple chicken is well worth trying. Make it once, and it’s likely to become a regular part of your dinner rotation.

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