Sweet and Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry – A Vibrant, Flavorful Skillet Meal
Introduction
This Sweet and Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry is the ultimate one-pan dinner—loaded with tender chicken, crisp bell peppers, juicy pineapple, and a sticky, addictive sauce that walks the line between sweet and fiery. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fast, healthy-ish, and absolutely packed with flavor.
Whether you serve it over steamed rice, tuck it into lettuce wraps, or eat it straight from the skillet (no judgment), this recipe will become a regular in your rotation.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m obsessed with meals that deliver on bold flavor with minimal effort, and this one does exactly that. The honey-soy-sriracha combo hits all the right notes, the bell peppers add crunch and color, and the pineapple brings that tropical zing that keeps you coming back for another bite. Plus, it all comes together in one pan—less mess, more taste.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ginger powder
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for sauce thickening)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and sriracha. Set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with garlic powder and ginger powder, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
3️⃣ Stir-Fry the Veggies
In the same pan, sauté the onions and bell peppers for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant.
4️⃣ Add the Pineapple & Sauce
Toss in the pineapple chunks and pour in the sweet and spicy sauce. Let simmer for 2 minutes. If using, stir in cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) for a thicker sauce.
5️⃣ Combine & Finish
Return the chicken to the pan. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3 minutes until the sauce is sticky and the flavors are absorbed.
6️⃣ Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice, noodles, or wraps.
Tips for Success
- Even cuts: Chop chicken and veggies into similar sizes for even cooking.
- High heat: Stir-fry over medium-high for a nice sear and quicker cook time.
- Add crunch: Toss in cashews or sesame seeds just before serving.
- Adjust heat: Like it spicier? Add more sriracha or a pinch of chili flakes.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
This chicken stir-fry is amazing with:
- Steamed jasmine or brown rice
- Noodles (rice noodles or soba work great)
- Lettuce cups for a low-carb twist
- A cool drink like Blueberry Lemonade
And it pairs deliciously with:
- Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders
- Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Dorito Casserole
- Tangy Chicken Salad
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet or microwave.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken and veggies (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Add fresh sauce when reheating for best results.
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Final Thoughts
This Sweet and Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry is proof that quick meals can be bold, colorful, and utterly satisfying. With the perfect blend of heat, sweet, and savory, it’s a guaranteed hit for dinner any day of the week.
Tried it? Tag @chefmaniac and share your stir-fry masterpiece! 🍗🌶️🥢
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