Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry

Name: Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, sliced; 2 cups bell peppers, chopped; 1 cup pineapple chunks; 1 onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup pineapple juice; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons vinegar; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry! The balance of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. With vibrant bell peppers, tender chicken, and a tangy sauce, it’s a dish that doesn’t just feed the body but also brings a smile to the face. Each bite is a delightful explosion of sweet and savory that makes for a perfect family meal or a quick dinner for busy weeknights. I've found that using fresh ingredients and an easy stir-frying technique elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:18:27.320Z

When I first attempted to make Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. By prepping all my ingredients in advance, I was able to keep the cooking process smooth and focused. The combination of colors from the fresh vegetables not only made the dish visually appealing but also hints at the amazing flavors waiting to be enjoyed.

One tip I love to share is to make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the chicken. This ensures a lovely sear and keeps the meat juicy and tender. The sauce is where the magic happens—using a mix of pineapple juice and vinegar adds that perfect punch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
Crisp vegetables that add freshness and crunch
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners

Flavor Profiles and Ingredient Choices

The key to a delicious Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry lies in the choice of ingredients. Fresh bell peppers not only add vibrant color but also crispness that contrasts beautifully with tender chicken. When selecting your peppers, opt for a mix of red, yellow, and green to enhance the dish visually and add varying levels of sweetness. Pineapple chunks bring a refreshing sweetness, but make sure they're firm and juicy for best flavor absorption in the sauce.

The sauce used in this recipe is paramount for achieving that classic sweet and tangy taste. Instead of store-bought sauces, making your own allows for better control over flavors and sweetness levels. Adjust the sugar based on your preference; if you love a more intense flavor, consider adding a dash of chili sauce for a kick. I often experiment with different types of vinegar—rice vinegar gives a milder taste, while apple cider vinegar offers a more pronounced tang.

Essential Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is a quick method that retains the nutrients and crunch of the vegetables while ensuring the chicken is perfectly cooked. It’s essential to preheat your skillet or wok over medium-high heat; this allows the chicken to sear quickly, creating golden edges while keeping the meat tender. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to achieve that ideal texture, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink, and juices run clear.

Another critical element is the timing of adding vegetables. To maintain their crispness, add the onion and bell peppers after the chicken has cooked through. Stir-frying them for just 3-5 minutes ensures they soften slightly while still providing that satisfying crunch. I also recommend stirring gently but consistently to prevent sticking and burning, which can detract from the overall taste and visual appeal of your dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, sliced
2 cups bell peppers, chopped
1 cup pineapple chunks
1 onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

1/3 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons vinegar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, vinegar, cornstarch, sugar, and sesame oil until well combined.

Stir-fry the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil, then add the chicken slices. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Add Vegetables

Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Combine Everything

Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat all the ingredients, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Serve

Serve the Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to include other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. Adjust the sauce to your taste by adding more sugar for sweetness or more vinegar for tanginess.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For a longer storage period, consider freezing individual portions. When reheating, a quick sauté on medium heat in a skillet will do the trick, ensuring the chicken remains juicy and the vegetables regain their crispness.

If you're making this dish for a gathering, you can prep all the ingredients—chop the vegetables, slice the chicken, and mix the sauce—up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, then stir-fry right before serving to keep everything fresh. This not only saves time but also allows you to enjoy the cooking process without the rush.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or alongside noodles for a complete meal. For an added burst of flavor and nutrition, consider garnishing with toasted sesame seeds or fresh cilantro. Alternatively, you can serve it with a side of egg rolls or spring rolls, which complement the dish perfectly and add a delightful crunch.

If you're looking to lighten the meal, serve it over a mix of leafy greens, creating a fresh salad that pairs well with the sweet and tangy sauce. This variation not only makes for a colorful presentation but also brings an extra layer of crunch and health benefits, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! Just ensure it’s well-thawed and cut into strips before cooking.

→ What can I serve it with?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice, or even noodles.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance, but I recommend making the sauce just before cooking for the best flavor.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.