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: 1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup pineapple chunks; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 1/4 cup pineapple juice; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water

Highlighted under: Quick Fix Eats

I absolutely love making Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry because it’s a vibrant explosion of flavors and colors. The combination of tangy sauce, crunchy vegetables, and tender chicken makes it a satisfying dish that the whole family can enjoy. With a few quick steps, I can whip up this delightful meal in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I enjoy serving it with steamed rice, which perfectly balances the bold flavors of the stir-fry.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:54:20.233Z

When I first tried my hand at Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry, I was surprised by how easy it was to create such complex flavors in a single dish. The blend of pineapple juice, vinegar, and soy sauce not only enhances the chicken but also infuses the vegetables with sweetness and tang. I usually add some bell peppers for crunch, which complements the tender chicken beautifully.

One of my favorite tips is to use cornstarch to coat the chicken before frying. This gives it a nice crispy texture while locking in the juices. The quick stir-fry method is key, as it keeps everything vibrant and fresh. Trust me, once you taste it, you'll be addicted!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
Quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes
Great way to incorporate colorful veggies
Customizable with your favorite protein or vegetables

Mastering the Stir-fry Technique

Stir-frying is all about high heat and quick cooking. Ensure your pan is preheated before adding the oil; this helps to create that crucial ‘wok hei’ flavor, characteristic of great stir-fries. I typically use a wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat. You'll know it's hot enough when the oil shimmers but isn’t smoking, usually around 375°F. This ensures your chicken sears nicely, developing a golden crust without drying out.

When you add the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan; this will lower the temperature and steam the meat rather than sear it. If your pan is small, consider cooking the chicken in batches. Keep an eye on the texture, aiming for a slightly charred, golden appearance, which usually takes 5-7 minutes. The delicious caramelization contributes to the dish's overall flavor and mouthfeel.

Ingredient Insights

The combination of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and rice vinegar gives this stir-fry its signature sweet and tangy kick. However, feel free to experiment with the proportions based on your taste preferences. For instance, if you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar, but be cautious not to throw off the balance that makes it so delectable. Additionally, using low-sodium soy sauce can help manage salt levels without losing flavor.

The vegetables in this dish not only contribute to the vibrant colors but also offer various textures that create an enjoyable eating experience. Broccoli remains slightly crisp while bell peppers turn tender, but if you're in a pinch, frozen vegetable mixes work well too. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as they may cook faster than fresh produce.

Ingredients

For the Stir-fry

1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1 cup pineapple chunks
2 cups broccoli florets
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced

For the Sauce

1/4 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water

Preparation

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, and water. Stir until smooth and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Add the bell peppers, broccoli, garlic, and ginger to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Combine with Sauce

Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and everything is well coated.

Serve

Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy your delicious Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for an hour before cooking. You can also substitute tofu or shrimp for a different twist on this dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the sauce one day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to a week, intensifying in flavor as it sits. Just give it a good stir before using, as the cornstarch may settle. Additionally, you can chop your vegetables and chicken ahead of time and keep them in airtight containers in the fridge until you're ready to cook.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a pan over medium heat until heated through rather than in the microwave; this helps to maintain the stir-fry's texture and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Serving Variations

While I love serving this stir-fry over steamed rice, consider pairing it with quinoa for a nuttier flavor and additional protein. If you're looking for a lighter option, serving it over cauliflower rice can be a delicious, low-carb alternative. You could also serve it with crunchy rice noodles; just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions before combining them with the stir-fry.

For a bit of extra flair, top your dish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions just before serving. A splash of sesame oil just before plating can also enhance the dish's aromatic profile, making it not only pleasing to the palate but also to the eyes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be a convenience option. Just add them directly to the stir-fry, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

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

It's perfect on its own, but you can serve it with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles for a more filling meal.