Stir-fried chicken with pineapple, also fondly known as Pineapple Chicken, is a dish that effortlessly balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite. Imagine tender chicken coated in a vibrant sauce, bursting with the tropical sweetness of pineapple and a hint of savory soy sauce. It’s no wonder this dish is a mainstay in many cultures, from the bustling streets of Southeast Asia to family dinner tables worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary adventure, this recipe is your passport to a flavor-packed journey!
Gather Your Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors Awaits
Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:
For the chicken and marinade:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
For the stir-fry sauce:
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
For the stir-fry:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Pro Tip: Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of turmeric to your marinade for an extra layer of warmth and earthiness!
Tools of the Trade: Your Stir-Fry Essentials
- A large bowl for marinating the chicken
- A wok or large skillet
- A sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
The Stir-Fry Symphony: Let’s Get Cooking!
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Marinate the Maestro: In your large bowl, combine the chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and ground ginger. Mix well and allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
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Prepare the Orchestra: While the chicken marinates, prepare your stir-fry sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
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Heat Up the Stage: Heat the vegetable oil in your wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
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The Star Enters: Add the marinated chicken to the hot wok and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
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Supporting Cast Joins: Add the pineapple chunks, bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the wok. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
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The Grand Finale: Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well and cook for an additional minute, or until the sauce thickens and coats everything beautifully.
Presentation is Key: Plating Your Masterpiece
Transfer your colorful stir-fried chicken and pineapple to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch of elegance.