Sweet and sour pineapple chicken

Sweet and sour pineapple chicken is a vibrant dish that combines tender chicken with tangy pineapple and a savory-sweet sauce. It’s perfect for a quick meal or a special occasion.

13 Nov 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
1 red pepper
12 oz chicken breasts
3 tbsp ketchup
2 tbsp soy sauce
3 tbsp sugar
1/2 can pineapple

Sweet and sour pineapple chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances tangy and sweet flavors. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with the vibrant notes of pineapple, and a sauce that is both savory and sweet. It's an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress your guests.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Chop the onion and yellow (or green) pepper into bite-sized pieces.
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Drain the pineapple if necessary.

2. Cook Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, about 4-5 minutes.

4. Create Sauce:
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.
- Stir in the ketchup, soy sauce, and sugar until well combined.

5. Add Pineapple:
- Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet, stirring to incorporate them into the mixture.

6. Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken hot over a bed of rice or noodles, if desired.

By following these steps, you'll create a delicious sweet and sour pineapple chicken that's sure to please anyone's palate. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy pineapple, and a savory-sweet sauce makes this dish a perfect blend of flavors. Enjoy this delectable meal with steamed rice or noodles for a complete dining experience.

Sweet and sour pineapple chicken FAQ:

What size pan should I use for this recipe?

A large skillet is recommended for this recipe. Make sure it has enough space to fit all the chicken and vegetables without overcrowding, allowing for even cooking.

How long does it take to cook the chicken?

The chicken should be cooked for about 5-7 minutes or until it is browned and fully cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Can I store leftovers, and if so, how?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

What can I substitute for pineapple in this recipe?

You can substitute pineapple with other fruits like mango or bell pepper for a similar sweet-tangy flavor. However, the overall taste of the dish will change.

How do I know when the vegetables are done cooking?

The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized, which typically takes about 4-5 minutes of sautéing over medium-high heat.

Tips:

- Make sure to cut the chicken breasts into even cubes to ensure uniform cooking.

- For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce for 15-20 minutes before cooking.

- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of chili flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the sauce.

- To keep the vegetables crunchy, avoid overcooking the onion and peppers.

- You can use fresh pineapple chunks instead of canned for an even fresher taste.

- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your preference.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 210kcal
Protein 20g
Carbohydrates 24g
Fiber 1.93g
Sugar 20g
Fat 9g

Sweet and sour pineapple chicken