Cashew Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry

Name: Cashew Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1-1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/3 cup plus 1 teaspoon cornstarch, divided; 1 tablespoon plus 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce, divided; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 3-4 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided; 1-1/2 cups 1/2-inch broccoli florets; 1 large sweet pepper, cut into 1/2-inch cubes; 1 small bunch green onions, sliced into 1-inch pieces; 3 medium cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger; 1/4 cup pineapple juice; 2 tablespoons light brown sugar; 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar; 1 cup 1/2-inch cubed fresh pineapple; 1/2 cup roasted whole cashews; Steamed rice and sliced green onions for serving

By:

Alejandro

Published:

September 29, 2026

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Cashew Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry is a vibrant dish that gracefully marries tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and the tropical sweetness of pineapple. The best part? It’s a one-pan wonder that comes together in less than an hour. Its inviting aroma fills your kitchen, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests without fussing over complicated recipes. With each bite, you’ll appreciate the subtle crunch of cashews combined with juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and a delightful tangy-sweet sauce.

I first discovered this recipe while searching for a way to put a spin on the traditional stir-fry. Taking inspiration from my favorite Asian takeout, I realized that I could whip up a version at home that exceeded my expectations. The layers of flavor come together effortlessly, proving that homemade meals can be both satisfying and quick. With the main flavors of tropical pineapple and savory chicken, Cashew Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry is bound to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This dish can be on your table in just 60 minutes, with only 20 minutes of prep.
Irresistible Flavor: Expect a colorful blend of sweet, salty, and savory, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The sumptuous colors of the fresh veggies and pineapple make this stir fry visually stunning.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for busy dinners, entertaining guests, or even meal prep for the week.
Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily swap out ingredients or adjust for various dietary restrictions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1-1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs: These are juicy and flavorful, perfect for stir-fries. Feel free to substitute with breast meat if preferred, though thighs provide better moisture.
1/3 cup plus 1 teaspoon cornstarch: This thickener gives the sauce a silky texture while ensuring the chicken has a nice crispy coating. You can use arrowroot starch as an alternative.
1 tablespoon plus 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce: This adds umami depth to the marinade and sauce. For a gluten-free option, you could use tamari.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the dish without overpowering the other flavors. Adjust depending on dietary needs or if using regular soy sauce.
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Just a pinch adds another layer of flavor to the chicken.
3-4 tablespoons vegetable oil: Essential for frying, it helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color. You can substitute with canola or peanut oil.
1-1/2 cups 1/2-inch broccoli florets: Adds a delightful crunch. Feel free to mix in other veggies like snap peas or bell peppers for variety.
1 large sweet pepper, cut into 1/2-inch cubes: For sweetness and color, any variety works well.
1 small bunch green onions, sliced into 1-inch pieces: These add freshness and a mild onion flavor.
3 medium cloves garlic, minced: Garlic provides an aromatic backbone to the stir-fry. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger: This adds warmth and a slight kick. If you don’t have fresh, ground ginger works in a pinch.
1/4 cup pineapple juice: Contributes to the sweet-tangy sauce. Choose 100% pure juice without added sugars for the best flavor.
2 tablespoons light brown sugar: Balances the sauce with a subtle sweetness. Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute.
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar: This adds a hint of acidity, brightening the overall dish. If unavailable, white vinegar can work as a substitute.
1 cup 1/2-inch cubed fresh pineapple: Fresh pineapple provides bursts of sweetness, but canned can be used if in a tight spot—just drain it well.
1/2 cup roasted whole cashews: These lend crunch and a nutty flavor.
Steamed rice and sliced green onions for serving: A perfect base to soak up all that delicious sauce, but quinoa or cauliflower rice are great alternatives for a healthier option.

How to Make Cashew Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss together the chicken thighs with 1/3 cup cornstarch, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is evenly coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak in the flavors.
Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmery. Working in batches, carefully add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Sear until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken and transfer it to a plate. Add additional oil to the pan for the next batch if necessary.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli, sweet pepper, and green onions. Cook for 2-4 minutes until just tender. Then, mix in the garlic and ginger and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 teaspoon cornstarch, 1/3 cup soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and rice wine vinegar until smooth. This will thicken and coat the stir-fry beautifully.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the pan with the vegetables to the heat. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan along with the sauce mixture, pineapple cubes, and cashews. Toss everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the ingredients.
Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the stir fry over steamed rice, garnished with extra green onions for freshness.

Storing & Reheating

Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to store longer, it can be safely frozen for up to 3 months—just make sure to freeze it in a sealed, freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Note that the texture of the veggies may soften, so consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice to refresh the flavors.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing the chicken. This helps ensure a beautiful golden crust.
For the best flavor from your garlic and ginger, add them after stir-frying the vegetables, so they retain their fragrant qualities.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, just allow it to simmer a bit longer, and it will reduce nicely.
Leftover stir fry is excellent in wraps or on top of salads, adding a new twist to your lunches.
Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less brown sugar based on your personal preference.

The Cashew Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry is a delightful dish that showcases the harmony of flavors and textures. Each bite bursts with a tropical essence that brightens up your dinner table. You’ll find that the combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and sweet pineapple creates a captivating meal that’s both satisfying and fun. So gather your ingredients, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the magic that happens when these flavors come together!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast is a great leaner option. Just keep in mind that it may require slightly less cooking time to avoid drying out.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you enjoy heat, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or some diced fresh chili into the stir-fry for a nice spicy kick.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Certainly! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water from the frozen vegetables before adding them to the stir-fry to ensure the sauce doesn’t become watery.

How do I make this meal gluten-free?

To make the Cashew Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry gluten-free, simply swap out regular soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Enjoy your flavorful stir-fry worry-free!