Sweet Sour Pineapple Chicken Aloha China

Recipe Introduction: Get Ready to Wok and Roll!

Fancy a flavour explosion? Ever wondered if you could have a tasty pineapple chicken recipe on the table in under an hour? Well, buckle up, buttercup! We're diving into a dish that's sweet, sour, and seriously addictive.

Think of it as a holiday for your taste buds.

A Taste of the Tropics Meets Takeout

This isn't your average midweek meal. This pineapple chicken recipe is inspired by classic Chinese American cuisine but with a sunshine-y twist.

It’s so easy. We're talking ready in 45 minutes easy. This recipe serves 4-6 hungry bellies!

Why You'll Love This

Honestly, this easy pineapple chicken is a game changer. It's packed with vitamin C from the pineapple, making it a surprisingly healthy takeout alternative .

It is perfect for a busy weeknight, when you want something delicious. This one is also family friendly! Did you know that sweet and sour chicken is one of the most popular Chinese American dishes.

It's the perfect blend of sweet, sour, and savory flavors!

Let's Talk Ingredients

Let's dive in the shopping list, shall we? We start with our chicken 1.5 lbs(680g), and a large egg! To make the sauce we need an onion, red and green bell peppers, and a can of pineapple.

Ingredients & Equipment: Pineapple Chicken Perfection

Alright, mateys! Let's talk about the bits and bobs we need for this pineapple chicken recipe . It’s so simple, even your nan could make it, and she once set fire to a trifle.

Honestly, if I can do it, anyone can. I've messed up simpler things, trust me.

Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show

Right, so first things first, you'll need:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Go for chicken that looks nice and pink, not grey.
• 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch for getting that lovely crispiness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, to taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil.
• 1 large egg , beaten.

For that zingy, zingy sweet and sour chicken recipe , we want:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (different one!).
• 1 small onion, chopped. About a cup.
• 1 red and 1 green bell pepper, chopped. Again, about a cup each.
• 1 (20 ounce/567g) can of pineapple chunks, undrained. Keep the juice, it's gold! The pineapple should smell sweet and delicious.
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced.
• 1/2 cup (120ml) of that pineapple juice we saved.
• 1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar gives it that tang!
• 1/4 cup (50g) packed brown sugar for sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce go for a low-sodium one if you’re watching your salt.
• 1 tablespoon ketchup.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch.
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water.
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes. If you're feeling brave!

Honestly, this easy pineapple chicken recipe is adaptable. Don't have bell peppers? Chuck in some broccoli. Not a fan of ginger? Leave it out.

Make it your own! It’s a family friendly chicken recipe , so even fussy eaters will be happy.

Seasoning Notes: The Flavor Boosters

Ginger and garlic are your best mates here. They add that aromatic depth that just screams Chinese American recipes , that reminds me of a quick Healthy takeout alternative but make sure it's with a homemade feel.

A bit of red pepper flakes turns up the heat. If you don't have apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar will do in a pinch.

For that homemade sweet and sour sauce , the sugar and vinegar balance is crucial.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

You don't need a fancy kitchen to nail this.

• A large skillet or wok.
• A medium saucepan.
• Mixing bowls.
• Measuring cups and spoons.

If you don't have a wok, a big frying pan will do. No fancy measuring spoons? Eyeball it! Cooking should be fun, not stressful.

This is the best chicken stir fry with pineapple , you will love this Tropical chicken recipe , as a part of Quick chicken dinner ideas .

If you're serving with pineapple chicken with rice You're ready to cook!

Mastering the Art of Pineapple Chicken: Your Guide to Sweet & Sour Success

Fancy a pineapple chicken recipe that's tastier than your local Chinese takeaway? Honestly, you've come to the right place. This recipe is easy , even if your cooking skills are a bit "meh.

" Get ready to create a tropical flavor explosion! Ever wondered how to make a sweet and sour chicken recipe that rivals your favorite takeout joint? Read on.

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic

First things first, let's get organized! Chop your 1.5 lbs of chicken into bite sized pieces. Mix that with ¼ cup cornstarch, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.

Then chop the 1 small onion, 1 red bell pepper, and 1 green bell pepper. Mince 1 tablespoon ginger and 2 cloves garlic.

Open that 20 ounce can of pineapple chunks remember to save the juice! Having everything ready makes the cooking process so much smoother.

Oh my gosh, and don't forget to beat one large egg!

step-by-step to Sweet & Sour Glory

1. Coat the chicken! Toss it with the cornstarch mixture. This helps it get nice and crispy.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Brown the chicken in batches for about 5- 7 minutes till cooked through. Don't overcrowd the pan or else you have a sad, steamed chicken. Set aside.
3. Sauté your chopped veggies. Add another 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Cook the onion and peppers until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in ginger and garlic; cook for 1 minute.
4. Whisk together the homemade sweet and sour sauce . In a bowl, combine the reserved pineapple juice (½ cup), ¼ cup apple cider vinegar, ¼ cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon ketchup, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and ¼ cup water.
5. Combine everything! Pour the sauce into the skillet. Simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens about 2- 3 minutes . Stir in the chicken and pineapple chunks. Cook for another 2- 3 minutes, or until heated through.

Pro Tips for Pineapple Chicken Perfection

Want to take your easy pineapple chicken to the next level? If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stir into the sauce to thicken it.

If your sauce isn’t thickening, add another cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with cold water). This Chinese American recipe is a healthy takeout alternative so you can enjoy your favourite flavour with out the guilt!.

Avoid using too much oil. I tend to use less than what's recommended, which has always worked out. Leftovers? Sorted! This keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Making this family friendly chicken recipe ahead? Cook the chicken and sauce separately and then combine it before serving!

Enjoy this tasty and easy pineapple chicken with rice .

Recipe Notes That'll Level Up Your Pineapple Chicken

Alright, you’re about to embark on making this awesome pineapple chicken recipe . But before you do, let’s chat about some insider tips that'll take your dish from "meh" to "OMG!"

Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro

Honestly, presentation matters. Mound that glorious pineapple chicken with rice high on a plate. Then sprinkle some sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top.

I sometimes like to add a side of stir fried broccoli for a pop of green. If you are feeling a bit fancy, a chilled glass of dry Riesling would be a perfect match.

Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh

Got leftovers? (If you do, you’re stronger than I am). Pop that sweet and sour chicken recipe into an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, a quick zap in the microwave or a gentle simmer on the stovetop will do the trick. I wouldn't freeze it, as the pineapple can get a bit weird, you know?

Variations: Making it Your Own

Fancy a bit of a twist? For a healthier version, this easy pineapple chicken can go low-carb by swapping out the rice for cauliflower rice.

A great dietary adaptation to make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce!

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

While this Chinese American recipe isn't exactly health food, it’s way better than takeout. This healthy takeout alternative provides a good source of protein and vitamins.

Plus, pineapple has bromelain, which is great for digestion. Each serving has approximately 450-550 calories. It really is a fantastic and family friendly chicken recipe that gets everyone involved!

So, go on, give this tropical chicken recipe a whirl! With these notes, you're well on your way to creating a restaurant worthy dish right in your own kitchen.

This recipe is one of the quick chicken dinner ideas that taste delicious and can be ready in no time, so you won't be slaving over a hot stove all night.

Before you know it, you'll be serving up a flavour explosion that will have everyone asking for the homemade sweet and sour sauce recipe.