A perfect fusion of sweet and savory, this Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry is a vibrant, flavorful dish that makes weeknight dinners both exciting and simple. Tender pieces of chicken thigh are quickly sautéed in a hot skillet, then coated in a glossy homemade sauce featuring pineapple juice, hoisin, soy, and a hint of brown sugar. Juicy pineapple chunks and crisp red bell peppers bring freshness and texture to the plate, while aromatic garlic and ginger elevate the flavor to restaurant-quality levels.

This recipe is ideal for busy families and home cooks who want big flavor without the hassle. With minimal prep time and only one pan required, it’s a go-to meal that tastes indulgent but is easy enough to throw together after a long day. The combination of sweet pineapple, savory chicken, and a rich, sticky sauce served over rice or noodles hits all the right notes. It’s a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s endlessly adaptable — perfect for customizing with the veggies you have on hand or adjusting the sauce to your taste preferences. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking to add more color and flair to your weekly meal rotation, this Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry delivers on every front.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy to Prepare

This stir-fry comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.

2. Sweet and Savory Flavor Combo

The balance of pineapple juice, hoisin sauce, and soy sauce creates a rich, tangy, and sweet glaze that complements the chicken and vegetables beautifully.

3. One-Pan Meal

Everything cooks in a single pan, cutting down on cleanup and making your kitchen time more efficient.

4. Customizable Ingredients

You can easily substitute vegetables, change the protein, or tweak the sauce to suit your dietary needs or preferences.

5. Great for Meal Prep

The leftovers store well and taste even better the next day, making it perfect for prepping lunches or dinners ahead of time.

Ingredients

Boneless skinless chicken thighs
Red bell pepper
Pineapple chunks
Garlic
Ginger
Pineapple juice
Low sodium soy sauce
Low sodium chicken broth
Hoisin sauce
Brown sugar
Cornstarch
Vegetable oil
Sesame seeds
Green onions
Salt and pepper

Variations

Use Chicken Breast Instead

Swap out chicken thighs for boneless skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.

Add More Vegetables

Incorporate broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra nutrients and color.

Make It Spicy

Add a teaspoon of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.

Try a Different Protein

Replace chicken with shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced beef for a fresh twist.

Use Fresh Pineapple

While canned pineapple works, fresh pineapple enhances the texture and brings brighter flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, chicken broth, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Pineapple

Add the red bell pepper and pineapple chunks to the pan. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce over everything and stir well to coat.

Step 6: Simmer and Thicken

Cook the mixture for 3–4 more minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling to the chicken and vegetables.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Cut all ingredients into similar-sized pieces for even cooking
Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook in batches if necessary
Stir the sauce mixture before adding, as cornstarch may settle
Use fresh garlic and ginger for the most vibrant flavor
Serve immediately for the best texture and taste

How to Serve

Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Garnish with extra green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of freshness. For added crunch, serve with a side of stir-fried or steamed vegetables.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze this stir-fry for up to 2 months. Store in individual portions for easy reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well if you prefer leaner meat, just be careful not to overcook it.

2. What type of pineapple should I use?

Both fresh and canned pineapple chunks work, though fresh gives a more vibrant texture.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this dish gluten-free.

4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth.

5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. Mix the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge.

6. How do I keep vegetables crisp in stir-fry?

Cook them on high heat for a short time and avoid over-stirring.

7. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture.

8. What’s the best oil for stir-frying?

Vegetable oil or any high-smoke point oil like canola or peanut oil works best.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook the chicken and veggies in batches to prevent overcrowding.

10. What can I substitute for hoisin sauce?

Try a mix of soy sauce, peanut butter, and a bit of honey or brown sugar if you don’t have hoisin.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry is a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that makes dinner exciting yet stress-free. It’s fast, versatile, and bursting with vibrant ingredients, making it a recipe you’ll want to keep on regular rotation. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this dish offers simplicity without sacrificing flavor.