Name: 20-Minute Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir for Quick Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons sesame oil or olive oil; 1.5 pounds ground chicken or ground pork; to taste black pepper; to taste chili flakes; 3 tablespoons salted butter; 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste; 3-4 cloves garlic, freshly chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger; 2 bell peppers, sliced; 1.5 cups fresh pineapple chunks; 1 cup cashews or peanuts; 0.5 cup tamari or soy sauce; 1-2 tablespoons honey or real maple syrup; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro; 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil or basil; green onions; sweet Thai chili sauce (optional); sesame seeds (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir is a vibrant and quick dish that combines the zesty flavors of ginger and sweet pineapple with savory chicken in just 20 minutes. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, delivering a delightful tropical taste that will brighten your dinner table. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or simply looking for a healthy meal option, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this delicious meal!

Why You’ll Love This Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir

This Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Here are several reasons why you’ll adore this dish:

It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for a quick ginger pineapple chicken dinner.
Sweet and spicy flavors create a delightful balance in every bite.
It’s a healthy option, with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
The combination of ginger and pineapple not only tastes great but also offers numerous health benefits.
This recipe is gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.
Perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have delicious leftovers for the next day.

Ingredients for Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir

Gather these items:

3 tablespoons sesame oil or olive oil
1.5 pounds ground chicken or ground pork
to taste black pepper
to taste chili flakes
3 tablespoons salted butter
1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
3-4 cloves garlic, freshly chopped
1 tablespoon fresh ginger
2 bell peppers, sliced
1.5 cups fresh pineapple chunks
1 cup cashews or peanuts
0.5 cup tamari or soy sauce
1-2 tablespoons honey or real maple syrup
1/2 cup fresh cilantro
1/4 cup fresh Thai basil or basil
green onions
sweet Thai chili sauce (optional)
sesame seeds (optional)

How to Make Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large skillet, add 3 tablespoons of sesame or olive oil over medium heat.
Step 2: Add 1.5 pounds of ground chicken or pork to the skillet. Break up the meat with a spatula, cooking until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in 3 tablespoons of salted butter, 3-4 cloves of chopped garlic, and 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger. Cook for 2 minutes.
Step 4: Toss in 2 sliced bell peppers and 1.5 cups of pineapple chunks along with 1 cup of cashews. Cook for an additional 2-5 minutes.
Step 5: Drizzle over 0.5 cup of tamari (or soy sauce) and 1-2 tablespoons of honey. Stir until the sauce fully coats the chicken.
Step 6: In a separate bowl, combine the remaining 3/4 cup of pineapple with 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro and 1/4 cup of fresh basil. Toss well.
Step 7: Spoon the chicken mixture over bowls of rice. Top with the pineapple-cilantro-basil mix and green onions.

Pro Tips for the Best Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir

Keep these in mind:

Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili flakes.
Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
To make this a pineapple chicken stir-fry with vegetables, add broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch.

Best Ways to Serve Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir

Here are a few serving suggestions to complement your dish:

Serve over jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant base.
Pair with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a colorful plate.
Add a drizzle of sweet Thai chili sauce for an extra kick.

How to Store and Reheat Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir

To store leftovers, place the chicken stir-fry in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This makes for an easy Ginger Pineapple Chicken meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir

What’s the secret to perfect Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir?

The secret lies in using fresh ginger and ripe pineapple, which enhance the dish’s tropical flavors. Additionally, cooking the chicken until perfectly browned ensures a delightful texture.

Can I make Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken stir-fry in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat it when ready to serve, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir?

Avoid overcooking the chicken, as it can become dry. Also, ensure you balance the sweetness of the pineapple with enough savory ingredients like soy sauce for the perfect flavor.

Variations of Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir You Can Try

If you want to mix things up, here are some delicious variations:

Substitute ground chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
Add more vegetables like carrots and snap peas for color and nutrition.
Try using different nuts like peanuts for a unique crunch.

20-Minute Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir for Quick Bliss - Ginger Pineapple Chicken Stir - additional detail

For more meal prep ideas, check out this guide. You can also explore gluten-free recipes or learn about the health benefits of ginger.