If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances tangy and sweet flavors, this Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Recipe is just what you need. It’s a delightful combination that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying.
Imagine tender pieces of chicken coated in a luscious, glossy sauce that combines the sweetness of brown sugar and the acidity of vinegar, all complemented by juicy pineapple chunks. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite, making it a family favorite that you’ll want to whip up again and again.
This dish is not only easy to prepare but also allows for some creativity in the kitchen. You can add extra vegetables or adjust the sweetness to suit your preferences. Whether served over rice or noodles, this Sweet and Sour Chicken will surely become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.
Creating the Dish
Crafting the Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Recipe is a delightful experience that transforms simple ingredients into a colorful and flavorful dish. The preparation begins with selecting fresh ingredients, ensuring the chicken is tender and juicy.
Starting with the chicken, it is essential to cut it into bite-sized pieces, allowing for even cooking. Seasoning it with salt and pepper enhances the flavor right from the start. The next step involves stir-frying the chicken in hot vegetable oil, where it becomes beautifully golden and aromatic.
Flavorful Sauce Components
The sauce is the star of this recipe, bringing the sweet and tangy elements together seamlessly. Combining brown sugar with rice vinegar creates a unique balance, while the addition of soy sauce deepens the flavor profile.
Incorporating pineapple chunks not only adds sweetness but also a refreshing burst of juiciness. As the ingredients mingle in the skillet, they create a vibrant sauce that clings to the chicken perfectly.
Vegetable Medley
No dish is complete without a colorful array of vegetables, and this Sweet and Sour Chicken includes diced bell peppers and onions. These vegetables bring a satisfying crunch and enhance the visual appeal of the meal.
Stir-frying the bell peppers and onions until they soften adds another layer of flavor to the dish. Their natural sweetness complements the tanginess of the sauce, making each bite a delightful combination of textures and tastes.
Thickening the Sauce
After the chicken and vegetables are cooked, the next step is to thicken the sauce for that desirable glossy appearance. Mixing cornstarch with water creates a slurry that, when added to the skillet, transforms the sauce into a rich coating.
Watching the sauce thicken and become glossy adds a satisfying element to the cooking process. It signifies that the dish is nearly ready to be served, heightening the anticipation of enjoying this vibrant meal.
Serving Suggestions
Once the chicken is tossed in the thickened sauce, it’s time to serve. Placing the vibrant Sweet and Sour Chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice creates a comforting base that absorbs the delicious sauce.
To elevate the presentation, a sprinkle of sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions adds a touch of elegance. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces additional flavors that complement the dish beautifully.
Meal Versatility
This Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Recipe is versatile, allowing for personalization based on preferences. For those who enjoy a bit more crunch, additional vegetables like snap peas or carrots can be included.
Moreover, the dish can be served over rice, noodles, or even as a filling for wraps. This adaptability makes it a fantastic choice for any weeknight dinner, catering to various tastes and dietary needs.
Delicious Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple
This Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple and Brown Sugar Recipe features succulent chicken pieces stir-fried to perfection in a vibrant, tangy sauce. The addition of pineapple brings a refreshing contrast to the savory elements, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet and stir-fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the onion and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the pineapple chunks, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Stir to combine.
- Thicken the Sauce: Pour in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 1-2 minutes.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional minute until heated through. Serve hot over cooked rice.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
