Craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that's both quick and easy to make? Look no further than this Sweet & Savory Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry! This recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweet pineapple, savory chicken, and aromatic spices, creating a dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Forget takeout – this recipe is surprisingly simple, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time to prepare. Imagine tender chicken pieces coated in a glistening, tangy sauce, paired with juicy pineapple chunks and crisp vegetables. The delightful combination of textures and tastes will tantalize your taste buds.
This incredible stir-fry is bursting with authentic Chinese flavors, yet remains incredibly accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe is all about enjoying the process and the delicious results. Ready to experience the magic? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide to creating this unforgettable Sweet & Savory Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry.
Tools Needed
- Bowl
- Pot
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: 3 lbs
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Chili flakes
- Black pepper
- Cornstarch: 2 1/2 tsp
- Olive oil
- Chicken bouillon
- Bell peppers
- Onion
- Pineapple (fresh or canned)
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Scallions
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Mushroom sauce
- Sweet and savory cooking sauce
- White pepper
- Cabbage (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate and Prepare
- Cut chicken thighs into small pieces. Marinate chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, chili flakes, black pepper, cornstarch, olive oil, and chicken bouillon for at least 1 hour (or up to a couple of hours) in the refrigerator. Take out 20-30 minutes before cooking.
- In a bowl, mix 2 teaspoons of sweet and savory sauce, 2 teaspoons of low sodium soy sauce, and 2 teaspoons of mushroom sauce. Set aside.
Step 2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pot.
- Add marinated chicken to the pot and brown on all sides.
- Add garlic, ginger, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil to the chicken while it's cooking.
- Add white pepper.
- After 3-4 minutes of cooking, add the prepared sauce to the chicken and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 3. Stir-fry the Vegetables
- Add onions, bell peppers, and pineapple to the chicken and stir-fry for about a minute.
- Add optional cabbage and cook for about a minute.
- Add scallions, stir, and turn off the heat. The residual heat will continue to cook the vegetables.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Authentic Chinese Mapo Tofu Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- You can use fresh or canned pineapple.
- Fresh pineapple is always better.
- Sesame oil has a strong flavor, so use it sparingly.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-700
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 50-70g
- Protein: 40-50g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen pineapple?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the stir-fry to prevent excess moisture.
2. What can I substitute for chicken?
Tofu, shrimp, or pork would all be delicious substitutes. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
This Sweet & Savory Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry is a testament to the fact that delicious, restaurant-quality meals can be easily recreated at home. The vibrant flavors and satisfying textures make it a perfect weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for guests. Enjoy this easy and flavorful recipe, and don't hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or spice levels to make it your own!