Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Vegetables
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 (8 ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve the juice)
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from the canned pineapple)
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
Instructions
1. Prep the chicken: In a bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat evenly.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken to a plate.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally for 3-5 minutes, or until softened.
4. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, ketchup, rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Combine and simmer: Add the sauce to the skillet with the vegetables. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Finish the dish: Return the chicken and pineapple chunks to the skillet. Stir to combine everything and heat through.
7. Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.
Tips
Air frying alternative: Coat the chicken with cornstarch mixture as instructed. Air-fry in a preheated air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly crispy.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili powder or more red pepper flakes to the sauce for more heat.
Make it a meal: Serve over brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.