Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry (Gà Xào Khóm)

A Vibrant, Weeknight-Friendly Vietnamese-Inspired Dish

Looking for a quick and flavour-packed dinner that brightens up your table? This Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry is a vibrant, Vietnamese-inspired recipe that balances savoury, sweet, and tangy notes in every bite. Tender chicken is tossed with crisp bell pepper and onion, juicy pineapple, and a glossy sauce made with dark soy, fish sauce, sesame oil, and fresh aromatics. It all comes together in under 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights or a fuss-free family meal.

What makes this stir-fry special is its texture and balance: the vegetables stay fresh and crunchy, the chicken stays juicy thanks to a light cornstarch coating, and the pineapple adds a bright pop of sweetness. A finishing sprinkle of chopped green onions – and roasted sesame seeds if you like – makes it as beautiful as it is delicious.

Why you’ll love this recipe:

• Quick and easy: minimal prep, fast cooking, and simple steps
• Balanced flavour: sweet pineapple, savoury sauces, gentle heat from fresh ginger and garlic
• Fresh texture: crisp veggies, tender chicken, and a glossy, restaurant-style finish
• Flexible ingredients: use purple or yellow onion, and canned pineapple juice works great

Serving suggestions:

• Serve hot with steamed rice
• Garnish with roasted sesame seeds and extra green onions for colour and aroma
• Add a side of pickled veggies for a refreshing contrast

Pro tips:

• Don’t overcook the vegetables – a quick, hot stir-fry keeps them crisp and colourful
• Marinate the chicken for 10-15 minutes with cornstarch, MSG, and garlic powder for a tender bite
• Use juice from canned pineapple if you don’t have fresh – it’s convenient and consistent

If you enjoy quick, colourful stir-fries with big flavour, this Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry will be a new weeknight favourite. Try it tonight and enjoy a dish that’s bright, balanced, and absolutely satisfying.

Q&As on Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry

1. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh pineapple for this dish?

It’s best to stick with fresh pineapple for this recipe. Fresh pineapple has a natural brightness and gentle acidity that perfectly balance the savoury flavours of the sauce. Canned pineapple tends to be softer and sweeter, which can make the stir-fry a little too syrupy and less vibrant. If possible, go for fresh – it keeps the dish crisp, refreshing, and beautifully balanced!

2. How can I keep the chicken tender and juicy in this stir-fry?

The key to tender and juicy chicken lies in preparation and timing. Before cooking, coat the chicken with cornstarch, MSG, and garlic powder – this light coating helps seal in moisture and creates a silky texture once cooked. When stir-frying, always use medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan to allow the pieces to sear evenly instead of steaming. Cook the chicken just until it turns golden brown and opaque; overcooking can make it tough or dry. Following these simple steps keeps the chicken wonderfully tender and flavourful, even after you add the sauce and vegetables.

3. What type of soy sauce works best for this recipe?

Dark soy sauce is the best choice for this dish because it adds both depth and colour. Unlike light soy sauce, which is saltier and brighter in flavour, dark soy sauce has a subtle sweetness and thicker consistency that enhances the savoury and caramelized notes of the stir-fry. It also gives the chicken a beautiful, glossy finish. If you only have light soy sauce on hand, you can still use it – just reduce the amount slightly and balance the flavour with an extra touch of pineapple juice or a pinch of sugar. This way, you’ll still achieve a rich, balanced taste without overpowering the dish.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Pat it dry and cut it into cubes, then coat it lightly in cornstarch for a crisp texture when stir-fried. Instead of fish sauce, use a plant-based substitute such as vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce. The combination of mushroom powder, dark soy, and pineapple juice will still bring out that lovely umami flavour. The result is a colourful, protein-packed stir-fry that’s just as satisfying as the original – perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a lighter option without sacrificing taste.

5. What should I serve with Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry?

This dish is wonderfully versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. The classic choice is steamed jasmine rice, which absorbs the sweet and savoury sauce beautifully. For a lighter option, try serving it with brown rice, vermicelli noodles, or even quinoa for a wholesome twist. To complete the meal, you can add a side of pickled vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad – these help cut through the richness of the sauce and highlight the dish’s natural brightness. A sprinkle of roasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top also adds extra flavour and a bit of crunch to each bite.