Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry

Name: Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 500g chicken breast, sliced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, sliced; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1/4 cup pineapple juice; 1/4 cup vinegar; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water; 1 tablespoon sugar

Highlighted under: Simple Weeknight Wonders

When I first tried making Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry at home, I never imagined it would become a family favorite. The sweet and tangy sauce, vibrant bell peppers, and succulent chicken all come together in a dish that's both comforting and exciting. It's a dish that satisfies my cravings for takeout while being easy to prepare in under 30 minutes. Plus, with a few simple ingredients, I can whip this up on a busy weeknight or impress guests at dinner parties.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:37:27.599Z

My journey into perfecting Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry started with experimenting in the kitchen during a rainy weekend. I tried various combinations and settled on a sauce made from pineapple juice, vinegar, and ketchup—you wouldn't believe how simple yet flavorful it is! Instead of traditional frying, I opted for quick stir-frying to keep the dish light without sacrificing that satisfying crunch of the vegetables.

One memorable evening, I invited friends over to taste my creation. They were amazed at how vibrant and enticing the dish looked on the table. I also learned that letting the chicken marinate in soy sauce for just 10 minutes enhances the flavor significantly, making a noticeable difference in each bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Brilliant balance of sweet and tangy flavors
Quick cooking time, perfect for busy evenings
Colorful veggies add a fresh crunch

Mastering the Stir-fry Technique

Stir-frying is all about high heat and quick cooking, which ensures that your chicken remains tender and juicy while developing a beautiful golden color. It's best to preheat your skillet or wok until it's very hot—this allows for the meat to sear rather than steam. Use a non-stick or a well-seasoned cast-iron pan for optimal results. When adding the chicken, spread it out in a single layer and avoid overcrowding. If necessary, cook in batches to achieve that desirable browning and maintain flavor.

Timing is crucial during the stir-frying process. Aim for 5-7 minutes for the chicken, stirring frequently until it’s no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The key is to look for a slight char on the edges for added depth of flavor. As you introduce the garlic and vegetables, ensure they remain vibrant and crunchy by not overcooking them—about 3-4 minutes should suffice. Their crunch will offer a delightful contrast to the tender chicken.

For those who may want to amp up the dish, consider adding a splash of sesame oil right before removing it from the heat. This enhances the dish with a rich, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweet and sour sauce. Additionally, fresh ginger can be a wonderful addition; saute it along with the garlic for an aromatic boost.

Ingredient Spotlight: Pineapple

The pineapple chunks in this dish aren't just for flavor; they also contribute to the sauce's natural sweetness and help balance the tanginess. Fresh pineapple can be an excellent choice over canned for its juiciness and texture. If you're using canned, opt for varieties packed in juice rather than syrup to keep the overall sugar content in check. Either way, ensure to reserve some juice from the can and use it in the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

If you're looking to make this dish a bit healthier or want to adjust the sweetness, there are options available. Other fruits like mango or peaches can be substituted for pineapple, adding a unique twist while keeping the sweetness balanced. For a lower sugar variation, try adding a splash of orange juice instead of pineapple juice in the sauce, which will keep it fresh but reduce the sweetness slightly.

Remember that the caramelization of pineapple is also a delightful aspect—consider adding them to the skillet a minute or two earlier than the final sauce addition. This slight caramelization can enhance their flavor profile, giving it a richer taste and a beautiful appearance.

Ingredients

For the Stir-fry

500g chicken breast, sliced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, sliced
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce

1/4 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup vinegar
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, sugar, and the cornstarch mixture until well combined.

Cook the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the garlic, bell pepper, and onion. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Combine with Sauce

Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir until everything is coated and the sauce has thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Remove from heat and stir in the pineapple chunks. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different variation.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prepare the sweet and sour sauce in advance; it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together for a more robust flavor. Just give it a good stir before use, as the cornstarch may settle at the bottom. The chicken stir-fry itself is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated for 2-3 days, making for a quick lunch option.

If you're making a larger batch, consider storing the sauce and stir-fry components separately. This helps to retain the texture of the veggies and chicken when reheating. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to ensure the dish doesn't dry out. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the chicken rubbery—just warm it enough until heated through.

For freezing, the cooked stir-fry can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm on the stove. This dish freezes well because of the sauce, which protects the chicken from becoming dry—even after defrosting.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet and sour chicken stir-fry pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a traditional approach, serve it on a bed of steamed white or jasmine rice. The fluffy rice soaks up the delicious sauce, making every bite wonderfully satisfying. Alternatively, you can use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option that adds a nutty flavor and promotes a lighter meal.

If you’re feeling adventurous, serve this stir-fry in lettuce wraps for a fun twist! Simply spoon the chicken mixture into halved iceberg or butter lettuce leaves for a fresh, crunchy bite. This not only adds an appealing presentation but also lowers carb content, perfect for those watching their intake.

For an extra touch, garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions just before serving. The added texture from the seeds and the vivid color from the green onions will elevate the dish’s appearance, making it even more inviting for dinner guests or family meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with extra-firm tofu or your favorite vegetables.

→ What can I serve with Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using.