If you’re looking for a dish that balances the perfect combination of tangy and sweet, this Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple and Peanuts recipe is just what you need. It’s a delightful meal that brings tropical flavors right to your dinner table. Plus, the crunch of peanuts adds a unique texture that makes each bite exciting.
Imagine juicy chicken pieces coated in a glossy, vibrant sauce that’s bursting with flavor. The addition of pineapple brings a refreshing sweetness, while the peanuts give a satisfying crunch. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a fantastic choice for your next family dinner or gathering.
This recipe is a wonderful way to elevate your weeknight meals. With colorful ingredients and a balance of flavors, you’re sure to impress anyone you serve it to. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple and Peanuts will have your taste buds dancing.
Colorful Ingredients Come Together
This dish showcases a vibrant mix of ingredients that not only look good but also provide a delicious balance of flavors.
Tender chunks of chicken are the star of the show, cooked to perfection and coated in a glossy sauce. The addition of colorful bell peppers adds both crunch and visual appeal, while juicy pineapple chunks offer a delightful sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.
A Flavorful Sauce
The sauce is a key component, blending soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ketchup to create a tangy base. Brown sugar brings in the sweetness, while garlic and ginger enhance the flavor profile with their aromatic qualities.
This combination results in a glossy coating that clings to each piece of chicken and vegetable, making every bite a burst of flavor. It’s the perfect balance for a dish that’s both sweet and sour, ensuring a vibrant eating experience.
The Crunch Factor
Adding peanuts introduces a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the tender chicken and soft vegetables. This extra texture elevates the dish, making it not just a meal, but a complete sensory experience.
As you take each bite, the crunch of the peanuts adds an unexpected element that keeps your palate engaged, ensuring that this meal is never dull.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple and Peanuts is best served over a bed of fluffy white rice. This base soaks up the delicious sauce, making every mouthful enjoyable.
Garnishing with chopped green onions adds a fresh touch, enhancing both the flavor and presentation. The contrast of colors on the plate makes it a visually appealing option for any dining occasion.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the appealing aspects of this dish is its simplicity. With a total prep and cook time of about 30 minutes, it’s a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner.
Even those who are new to cooking can create a meal that looks and tastes impressive. The straightforward steps ensure that you can whip up this delightful dish with ease, providing a satisfying result without too much fuss.
Nutrition and Serving Size
This Sweet and Sour Chicken serves four, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings. Each serving contains around 400 calories, with a balance of protein and carbohydrates that supports a well-rounded diet.
With 30 grams of protein per serving, it’s a filling option that provides the energy you need. The dish strikes a balance between being indulgent and nutritious, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Delicious Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple and Peanuts
This dish features tender chicken chunks stir-fried with crisp bell peppers and juicy pineapple, all coated in a flavorful sweet and sour sauce. The peanuts add a crunchy contrast, making it a satisfying meal that hits all the right notes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
- 1/2 cup unsalted peanuts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir well to combine, then set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Vegetables and Pineapple: Stir in the sliced bell pepper and pineapple chunks. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers are slightly tender.
- Thicken the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Finish with Peanuts: Stir in the peanuts just before serving.
- Serve: Spoon the sweet and sour chicken over cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
