Are you looking for a dish that’s both tangy and refreshing? This Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple and Basil Recipe hits all the right notes! With its vibrant flavors, it’s hard not to fall in love with the combination of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and aromatic basil. Whether it’s a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
Imagine biting into tender pieces of chicken coated in a glossy sauce, paired with the sweetness of pineapple and the fragrant touch of basil. It’s like a tropical getaway on your dinner plate! Plus, it comes together quickly, making it perfect for those busy nights when you still want something delicious.
A Colorful Presentation
The vibrant hues of this dish make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Golden-brown chicken pieces are surrounded by an array of colorful bell peppers, creating a striking visual appeal. The addition of glistening pineapple chunks not only enhances the color but also introduces a delightful contrast of flavors.
When plated, the dish is garnished with fresh basil leaves, adding a pop of green that elevates its presentation. This attention to detail is what makes serving Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple and Basil a truly enjoyable experience, whether it’s for a family dinner or a gathering of friends.
A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish
The Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple and Basil recipe is a delightful update to the traditional sweet and sour offerings. The succulent chicken is stir-fried to perfection and paired with vibrant bell peppers and juicy pineapple chunks. Each bite encapsulates a balance of tanginess and sweetness that is both refreshing and satisfying.
What sets this dish apart is the inclusion of fresh basil, which adds a layer of aromatic depth. This unexpected twist complements the classic flavors beautifully, making the dish not only delicious but also exciting to prepare and enjoy.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing this dish is straightforward, making it accessible for both novice cooks and experienced chefs. The first step involves cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chopping the vegetables. Having everything ready to go streamlines the cooking process, allowing the flavors to meld seamlessly.
As you make the sauce, mixing soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and ketchup brings together the sweet and tangy elements that define this recipe. This simple combination serves as the foundation for a flavorful meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week.
Cooking Techniques to Enhance Flavor
Cooking the chicken is where the magic begins. Searing the pieces in vegetable oil over medium-high heat ensures that they develop a lovely golden crust, which adds depth to the overall taste. Once the chicken is cooked through, the addition of garlic, onion, and bell peppers brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the dish’s complexity.
Adding the pineapple chunks at the right moment ensures they retain their shape while infusing the dish with their signature sweetness. The final touch involves thickening the sauce with a cornstarch mixture, ensuring that every ingredient is well-coated and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
To complete this delightful dish, serving it over a bowl of fluffy white rice is a must. The rice acts as a perfect canvas for the Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple and Basil, soaking up the sauce and complementing the flavors beautifully.
For an extra flourish, consider garnishing with additional fresh basil or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds. The combination of textures and flavors makes every bite a delightful experience and showcases the dish’s tropical influences.
Nutritional Information
This dish not only pleases the taste buds but is also a balanced meal option. Each serving offers a respectable amount of protein and satisfying carbohydrates, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. With approximately 320 calories per serving, it provides a hearty yet healthy meal choice.
With 25 grams of protein, it supports a fulfilling dining experience that can energize you for the day ahead. Planning your meals with this recipe in mind can lead to a delightful culinary journey that is both flavorful and nourishing.
A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish
This Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple and Basil recipe features succulent chicken pieces stir-fried with fresh bell peppers and pineapple chunks, all enveloped in a tangy sauce. The addition of basil adds an unexpected twist that elevates the dish with a fragrant aroma and taste that is both zesty and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chop the vegetables.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and ketchup. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the garlic, onion, and bell peppers. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Combine with Sauce: Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, then add the pineapple chunks. Stir well to coat everything.
- Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornstarch mixture to the pan and stir until the sauce thickens.
- Finish with Basil: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
