Pineapple Stir Fry (Sweet, Savory, and Better Than Takeout)

If you love that sweet-savory combo you get from your favorite takeout stir fry, this pineapple stir fry is about to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. Juicy pineapple, crisp veggies, and a simple homemade stir fry sauce come together in one pan for a fast, flavor-packed meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You'll Love This Pineapple Stir Fry Recipe

As soon as the sun starts shining and the weather starts to warm up, I immediately crave this easy Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry. It gives me all the tropical feels, but in an easy, gluten and dairy-free meal that's on the table in less than 30 minutes.

• Sweet and savory flavors in every bite
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Easy to customize with chicken, shrimp, or steak
• Perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights

If you're searching for homemade gluten free stir fry recipes, or healthy weeknight dinners, this recipe fits right in!

Ingredients You'll Need

For the stir fry:

• 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
• 2 chicken Breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups canned Pineapple Chunks
• 2 bell peppers, cut into chunks
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• Additional veggies: broccoli florets or sugar snap peas

For the stir fry sauce:

• ¼ cup gluten free soy sauce or tamari
• ¼ cup pineapple juice
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Protein options:

• Cooked chicken, shrimp or steak

Gluten Free Soy Sauce

If you're new to gluten free living, be sure to use soy sauce or Tamari labeled certified gluten-free because regular soy sauce is loaded with wheat!! You can also stay safe using coconut aminos which is a naturally gluten-free and soy-free alternative made from coconut nectar instead of soy.

Looking for more Asian style dinner recipes? I think you'll also love this Gluten Free Orange Chicken, and this Gluten Free Sweet and Sour Chicken.

HOW TO MAKE THIS PINEAPPLE CHICKEN STIR FRY

Step 1: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the gluten free soy sauce, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Set aside. This quick sauce is what gives the stir fry that classic takeout flavor without bottled sauces.

Step 2: Cook the Protein & Vegetables

Heat the oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and saute a few minutes. Add the bell peppers, red onion and whatever other veggies you choose! Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables are crisp-tender.

Step 3: Add the Pineapple

Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for 2-3 minutes. The pineapple will caramelize slightly and release its natural sweetness, which balances the savory sauce perfectly.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Pour the stir fry sauce over the vegetables and pineapple. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice, jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Tips for the Best Pineapple Stir Fry

• Prep all ingredients before you start cooking. Stir fry moves fast!
• Don't overcrowd the pan or the veggies will steam instead of sauté
• Adjust sweetness or heat by adding honey or red pepper flakes

Time saving tip! Put the rice on to cook right before I start cooking the stir fry. This way everything is done cooking at the same time.

What to Serve With Pineapple Stir Fry

This dish pairs well with:

• White or brown rice
• Quinoa
• Rice noodles
• Cauliflower rice
• If you're really feeling fancy, serve this meal in a hallowed pineapple bowl!

Top with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for extra flavor and crunch.

Storage & Meal Prep

Store leftover pineapple stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats well in a skillet or microwave, making it perfect for lunch or meal prep.

Did you try this recipe? Be sure to leave a comment below and tag me on instagram @thrivingglutenfree so I can see how it turned out!

Let's Eat!