Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry
Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry Recipe
Introduction
Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry is a delicious and colorful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple and mandarin oranges with the savory flavors of chicken and vegetables. This stir-fry is quick and easy to make, making it a perfect weeknight meal for the whole family.
History
This recipe is a fusion of Asian and tropical flavors, combining traditional stir-fry techniques with the addition of pineapple and mandarin oranges. The combination of sweet and savory ingredients creates a unique and flavorful dish that is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced (about 2 whole breasts)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 medium orange, sliced into rings
- 1 package (6 oz (170 g)) frozen snow pea pods
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp pepper
- 0.5 tsp ginger
- 1 can (14 oz (397 g)) pineapple tidbits, drained
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 0.5 cup chicken broth, divided
- 1 can (11 oz (312 g)) mandarin orange slices, drained
How to prepare
- Preheat a heavy frying pan over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes. Spray with nonstick corn oil cooking spray.
- Add chicken breast strips and minced garlic, and stir-fry for about 3 minutes.
- Increase the heat to high and add onion and snow pea pods. Stir-fry for about 3 minutes.
- Add salt, pepper, ginger, and pineapple, and continue to stir-fry for about 3 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp of the chicken broth, stirring until smooth.
- Slowly stir in the remaining broth and then add to the mixture in the frying pan, stirring gently to mix evenly.
- Add mandarin oranges and heat only until hot through, about 2 minutes, stirring gently to keep orange sections from breaking.
- Serve over rice or with wide oriental noodles.
Variations
- Add diced bell peppers or water chestnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein option.
- Add a splash of soy sauce or hoisin sauce for a more intense flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to thinly slice the chicken breasts to ensure quick and even cooking.
- Use a heavy frying pan or wok to stir-fry the ingredients, as this will help to evenly distribute the heat and cook the ingredients quickly.
- Be sure not to overcook the vegetables, as they should be crisp-tender for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry over rice or with wide oriental noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Cooking Techniques
Stir-frying is a quick and efficient cooking technique that involves cooking ingredients in a hot pan or wok with a small amount of oil. The high heat helps to cook the ingredients quickly while preserving their texture and flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use fresh pineapple chunks instead of canned pineapple tidbits.
- Substitute sugar snap peas for snow pea pods.
- Use orange juice instead of mandarin orange slices for a different citrus flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the ingredients for this dish ahead of time by slicing the chicken and vegetables and storing them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This can help to save time on busy weeknights.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry in a large serving bowl or on individual plates for a colorful and appetizing presentation. Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil leaves for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
This dish pairs well with steamed white rice or brown rice, as well as a side of steamed broccoli or bok choy. A crisp white wine or a light beer would also complement the flavors of the stir-fry.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers of the Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry contains approximately 5 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry contains approximately 25 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is rich in vitamin C from the oranges and pineapple, as well as vitamin A from the snow pea pods.
Alergens
This recipe contains chicken and cornstarch, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before preparing this dish.
Summary
Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is relatively low in fat and calories, making it a healthy option for a delicious dinner.
Summary
Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. With a balance of sweet and savory flavors, this stir-fry is sure to become a family favorite.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of wonder. It was a warm summer evening, and I was attending a potluck dinner at a friend's house. As I made my way through the buffet line, my eyes landed on a colorful dish filled with chunks of juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and succulent pineapple slices. The aroma of zesty orange and garlic filled the air, tempting my taste buds.
I approached the hostess and asked her about the dish. She smiled and told me it was her famous Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry. She explained that she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I was captivated by the story behind the dish and knew I had to learn how to make it myself.
The next day, I called up my friend and asked her for the recipe. She was more than happy to share it with me, and I eagerly jotted down the ingredients and instructions. I couldn't wait to try my hand at making this delicious dish that had captured my imagination.
I gathered all the ingredients I needed – chicken breast, bell peppers, pineapple chunks, orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. As I chopped and diced, the fragrant scents of the ingredients filled my kitchen, transporting me back to that warm summer evening.
I marinated the chicken in a mixture of orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a few hours to let the flavors meld together. Then, I heated up my wok and added the marinated chicken, stirring it until it was cooked through and golden brown.
Next, I added the bell peppers and pineapple chunks, letting them cook until they were tender-crisp. The colors of the dish were vibrant and inviting, making my mouth water in anticipation.
Finally, I poured in a tangy sauce made from orange juice, soy sauce, and a touch of honey. The sauce bubbled and thickened, coating the chicken and vegetables in a sticky glaze that was sweet, savory, and utterly delicious.
I plated the Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth – the tangy orange, the sweet pineapple, the savory chicken – it was a symphony of tastes that danced on my palate.
I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire. It was a dish that brought back memories of that summer evening, of my friend's grandmother, and of the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.
Over the years, I have made this Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. I have shared it with family and friends, who have all marveled at the flavors and asked for the recipe.
And now, as I sit down to write this story, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for all the recipes that have come into my life – from family, friends, and even strangers. Each recipe tells a story, a tale of love, tradition, and connection that transcends time and space.
So, the next time you make this Orange Pineapple Chicken Stir-fry, think of the story behind the dish. Think of the hands that passed down the recipe, the kitchens where it was cooked, and the hearts that were nourished by its flavors. And remember, the best recipes are not just about the ingredients – they are about the stories that they tell.
Categories
| Cathy's Recipes | Chicken Breast Recipes | Chicken Stock And Broth Recipes | Mandarin Orange Recipes | Orange Recipes | Pineapple Recipes | Snow Pea Recipes |