Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry

Name: Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 1 cup pineapple chunks; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice for serving

Highlighted under: FlashCook Meals Fast & Simple

I always look forward to making Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry in my kitchen because it brings back wonderful memories of family gatherings around the dinner table. The vibrant colors and delightful aromas fill the air, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. With juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy sauce, it's a dish that never fails to impress. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight meal for busy evenings.

Created by

Marco

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:21:27.742Z

When I first experimented with sweet and sour flavors, I never imagined how much joy it would bring to my cooking. I decided to keep the ingredients simple yet fresh, using vibrant vegetables like bell peppers and pineapple to complement the flavors of tender chicken. The key was to balance the sweetness with a little vinegar, which I found enhances the taste without overpowering it.

Each time I whip up this stir-fry, I’m reminded to keep an eye on the chicken's doneness. Ensuring it's cooked through but still juicy makes all the difference. I’ve also learned that adding vegetables at the right time ensures they remain crisp and bright, adding texture and nutrition to the dish.

You Will Love This Recipe Because
A perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors that excite the palate.
Colorful vegetables add nutrition and crunch in every bite.
Quick to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.

The Role of Chicken in Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry

The chicken breast serves as the star protein in this dish, absorbing the vibrant flavors of the sauce while maintaining its juicy texture. When dicing the chicken, aim for uniform pieces around 1-inch in size to ensure even cooking. A skillet at medium-high heat is ideal for achieving a golden-brown crust, which not only enhances the flavor but also provides a contrast to the tender vegetables. Keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking; it should be lightly browned on the outside and juicy inside after about 5-7 minutes.

For those looking to make this dish a bit lighter, consider substituting the chicken breast with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They add a richer flavor and stay moist even if slightly overcooked. If you prefer a vegetarian option, firm tofu works brilliantly; just press it to remove excess moisture and cut it into cubes before stir-frying to achieve a satisfying texture.

Vegetable Varieties and Their Impact

The bell pepper and onion not only provide a burst of color but also bring their unique textures and flavors to the stir-fry. Slicing the bell pepper into thin strips allows for quicker cooking, which is key to retaining a crisp texture. If you enjoy a little heat, try adding sliced jalapeños or substitute the bell pepper with snap peas or broccoli for a different crunch. Each vegetable contributes its own nutritional benefits, making this dish both delicious and wholesome.

Cooking the vegetables over high heat helps to lock in their flavors and creates a slight char, which adds depth. Aim for that tender-crisp texture to maximize their freshness. Remember, the goal is to stir-fry them for just 3-4 minutes; if you notice them browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to maintain their vibrant color and crunch.

Mastering the Sweet and Sour Sauce

The sweet and sour sauce is what truly elevates this dish, creating that perfect balance of flavors. Whisking together soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, and brown sugar is key to achieving the desired taste profile. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a few drops of sriracha or chili paste. For a healthier twist, consider using low-sodium soy sauce and replacing brown sugar with honey or maple syrup, which brings a different type of sweetness to the dish.

When pouring the sauce into the skillet, it’s essential to stir continuously to ensure an even coating on the chicken and vegetables. Cooking the mixture an additional 2-3 minutes allows the sauce to thicken slightly. You’ll know it’s ready when it clings to the ingredients without being too watery. If your sauce ends up too thick, a splash of water or additional vinegar can help you achieve the right consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
1 cup pineapple chunks
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice for serving

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go, as stir-frying is a quick process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry.

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, season the diced chicken breast with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and add the chicken. Cook until it's browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet, followed by the sliced bell pepper and onion. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, and brown sugar. Pour this sauce into the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Add the pineapple chunks, minced garlic, and ginger, stirring to combine.

Final Touch

Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and serve over cooked rice.

Enjoy your homemade Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for variety.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture of the chicken and vegetables, reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This method ensures even warming and prevents the dish from becoming soggy, which can happen in the microwave.

If you plan to freeze leftovers, it’s best to do so before adding the sauce. Freeze the stir-fry ingredients in a zip-top bag for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in a skillet, adding the sauce once heated through. This keeps the flavors fresh and the ingredients crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this dish over a bed of fluffy cooked rice is traditional and enhances the overall experience. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or quinoa can be excellent substitutes, offering similar textures while keeping it light. You can also add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

For a comprehensive meal, consider serving this stir-fry with a side of Asian-style coleslaw or steamed dumplings. The balance of flavors and textures across the meal will leave your family and friends impressed, making it not just a weeknight dinner but also a dish worthy of special occasions.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize the Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry with your favorite vegetables. Extended options like zucchini, carrots, or snap peas can add seasonal freshness and variety to your dish. You can also change up the protein; shrimp or beef both work beautifully when cooked properly to avoid toughness or dryness.

For a tangy twist, consider adding a splash of orange juice or a handful of cashews at the end of cooking for added crunch and flavor complexity. Adjusting the sweetness or tartness by modifying the amount of sugar or vinegar can further personalize the dish to your taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, pork, or tofu for a different flavor.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables in advance.

→ What can I serve with Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-fry?

It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles for a hearty meal.