Learn how to make pineapple sweet and sour chicken with this easy, step-by-step recipe. Discover alternate ingredient options, health benefits and serving suggestions.

Craving something sweet, sour, and juicy? Pineapple sweet and sour chicken is the answer. With juicy chunks of chicken tossed in a vibrant sauce of pineapple, soy, and a hint of vinegar…. This dish delivers the ultimate flavor combo satisfy every craving. Whether you are a fan of a Chinese takeout style meal or just want to impress with sweet and sour homemade, this guide has everything you need.

What is Sweet and Sour Chicken

Sweet and sour chicken is a classic dish popularized by Asian inspired cuisine. Sweet and sour is known for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Originating in China but highly popular in Western countries, this dish is both tangy and sweet. The flavor profile hinges on a unique mix of savory and fruity notes typically from ingredients like pineapple, soy sauce, and a hint of vinegar. Common ingredients include tender meat, pineapple chunks, and colorful vegetables, all simmered in a vibrant sauce. When combined, the juicy meat, tangy sauce, and fresh veggies create a dish that is packed with flavor and nutrition.

Easy Sweet and Sour Ingredients

One of the pros for this dish is the ease of ingredients used. Essential ingredients for pineapple sweet and sour chicken include boneless chicken or pork cuts, pineapple chunks in juice, soy sauce for a savory base, and a touch of tomato sauce for richness. Most of the core ingredients will be in your pantry already, or easily obtained from your nearest grocer.

Stir Fry Veggie Options

For customization, you can swap in different vegetables. We like the following; snap peas, carrots, zucchini, broccoli and cauliflower. Opt for crisp veggies that add both color and texture to the final dish.

Sweet and Sour Meat Options

The most popular choice for sweet and sour dishes is arguably chicken or pork. But there are other delicious meat options to explore. Shrimp or a white fleshed fish offers a lighter option, perfect for a seafood twist on the dish. Tofu or tempeh work wonderfully for vegetarian variations. Each protein option brings a new flavor dynamic to the sweet and sour dish, letting you customize it to your needs.

Sweet and Sour Sauce Variations

If you are looking for alternatives to pineapple, try mango or even apples. Both bring a similar sweetness and tropical flavor, thus working well in this recipe. To get the sauce just right aim for a consistency that is thick enough to coat the chicken and vegetables but still pourable. Cornstarch is perfect for achieving that balance without overloading on sugar or syrup, add a little more or less as needed.

Sweet and Sour Chicken Nutrition

Pineapple sweet and sour chicken can be a surprisingly healthy meal when made with fresh ingredients and balanced portions. Pineapple brings natural sweetness along with a dose of vitamin C and fiber. The lean chicken meat provides a good source of protein without excess fat. By stir frying the ingredients and controlling the amount of added sugar in the sauce, you can keep it lighter than takeout versions. Not to mention no MSG.

Sweet and Sour Chicken Meal Serving Suggestions

For a well rounded meal, serve sweet and sour chicken over steamed jasmine or fried rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds to add freshness and a bit of crunch. Noodles can also be substituted for rice. As for beverages, light and refreshing options work best. A cold iced tea or even sparkling water with a twist of lime pairs beautifully.


Pineapple sweet and sour chicken is more than just a meal, its a delightful blend of flavors that sure bring a taste of the tropics to your table. Don’t forget to try your own twists, and enjoy every bite of that delicious sweet and sour balance.This recipe will never disappoint.

Pineapple Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Print Recipe

Pineapple Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast or thigh fillets (500g) thigh fillets cut into 1 inch (2.5cm) pieces
• 15 oz can pineapple chunks in natural juice 425g can
• 1 garlic clove crushed
• 1/4 cup soy sauce 60ml
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce 60ml
• 1 tbsp malt vinegar 15ml
• 1/4 cup cornflour (45g)
• 1 brown onion chopped
• 1 red bell pepper chopped
• 1 green bell pepper chopped
• 2 green onions cut into 3/4-inch (2cm) pieces
• 4 cups steamed rice

Instructions

• Heat oil in a frying pan over medium to high heat. Cook the chicken stirring often for about 5 minutes or until cooked through. Remove from pan and put aside.
• Drain the pineapple, reserving the juice. In a medium jug, combine the cornflour, reserved pineapple juice, garlic, soy sauce, tomato sauce, and vinegar.
• Heat extra oil in a wok or frying pan over high heat. Add the brown onion and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes or until they start to soften. Add the sauce mixture and stir-fry for 1 minute or until the sauce bubbles and thickens.
• Add the pineapple chunks, cooked chicken, and green onions, stirring until heated through.
• Remove from heat and serve immediately.

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