Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple is the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and sweet flavors. The crispy chicken is tossed in a flavorful sweet and sour sauce with the vibrant, tropical kick of pineapple, creating a delicious dish that’s both comforting and exciting. This dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun family meal, or even a special weekend treat. The combination of tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and juicy pineapple is not only satisfying but also packed with fresh ingredients.

This recipe brings all the best elements of a classic Chinese takeout dish straight to your kitchen, without the hassle of ordering in. The homemade sauce is easy to prepare, and when paired with crispy chicken and perfectly cooked vegetables, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether served over rice or enjoyed as a standalone dish, Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple is a delicious and nutritious option that will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tangy

The combination of sweet pineapple and the tangy sauce creates a delicious contrast that will have your taste buds dancing.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal.

3. Homemade Sauce

Unlike store-bought versions, this recipe uses a homemade sweet and sour sauce that’s fresher and more customizable to your taste.

4. Crispy and Tender Chicken

The chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, providing the ideal texture to complement the sauce.

5. Kid-Friendly

The sweet and savory flavor profile is appealing to kids and adults alike, making this a great family meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Flour
Cornstarch
Baking powder
Salt and pepper
Eggs
Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
Ketchup
Apple cider vinegar
Soy sauce
Sugar
Garlic (minced)
Ginger (optional, for extra flavor)
Bell peppers (red and green, sliced)
Onion (optional)

For Garnish:

Green onions (optional)
Sesame seeds (optional)

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version. Ensure the tofu is pressed and cubed for a crispy texture.
Spicy Kick: Add a chopped chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy variation.
Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or zucchini to the stir-fry for extra nutrition and flavor.
Pineapple Alternative: If you don’t like pineapple, you can substitute it with mango or even use a mix of fruits like bell peppers and apples for a different twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts (or thighs) into bite-sized chunks. In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each batch for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce

In the same skillet, remove excess oil and add a little bit of oil if necessary. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar. Add pineapple chunks (with juice if you’re using canned) and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

While the sauce is simmering, heat another pan with a small amount of oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions (if using), and cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until they are tender-crisp.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken, Sauce, and Vegetables

Once the sauce has thickened and the vegetables are cooked, add the fried chicken to the sauce, followed by the bell peppers and onions. Stir to coat everything evenly in the sweet and sour sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple over steamed rice. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Fry the Chicken in Batches: If you’re making a larger quantity, it’s important to fry the chicken in batches to ensure it cooks evenly and stays crispy.
Use Fresh Pineapple: If you can, use fresh pineapple as it will give the dish a brighter, more natural sweetness.
Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar level based on your personal preference. If you like it sweeter, add more sugar or honey. If you prefer a tangier sauce, add a little extra vinegar.
Keep the Chicken Crispy: To maintain the chicken’s crispy texture, don’t add it to the sauce until the very last minute. This will ensure it stays crispy even after being coated in the sauce.

How to Serve

Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple is best served over a bed of steamed white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also pair it with a side of sautéed greens like spinach or bok choy for a more balanced meal. If you’re hosting a party, this dish can be served as part of a larger Asian-inspired spread with other favorites like fried rice, dumplings, or spring rolls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave, until warmed through.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken (without the vegetables) and sauce separately for up to 2 months. To reheat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove. The chicken may lose some of its crispiness when frozen, but it will still be delicious.

Reheating

To refresh the chicken, reheat it in a pan over medium heat to help crisp it up again, or microwave it for a few minutes, depending on your preference.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe, adding more flavor and juiciness to the dish.

2. Can I make this dish without frying the chicken?

If you’d prefer to avoid frying, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken in a little oil in the skillet for a lighter version.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sweet and sour sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just heat it up before adding the chicken and vegetables.

4. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers to the sauce for a spicy kick.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free (look for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative).

6. Can I use frozen pineapple?

Yes, you can use frozen pineapple, but make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the sauce.

7. Can I use other fruits instead of pineapple?

You can substitute pineapple with other fruits like mango, peach, or even a combination of tropical fruits for a different twist on the classic.

8. How do I make the chicken crispy?

Make sure to coat the chicken well in the flour mixture, and fry it in hot oil for the perfect crispy texture. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even frying.

9. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

10. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is cooked through when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), or when the meat is no longer pink in the center.

Conclusion

Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple is a perfect dish for anyone who loves a combination of crispy, savory, and sweet flavors. With its homemade sauce, juicy pineapple, and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. It’s quick to prepare, easily customizable, and packed with flavor, making it ideal for both weeknight meals and special occasions. Whether you serve it with rice or enjoy it on its own, this dish is guaranteed to impress!