Enhanced Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry

Ingredients

• Chicken breast (1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Bell peppers (2 cups, sliced (mixed colors for visual appeal))
• Onion (1 medium, sliced)
• Pineapple chunks (1 cup, fresh or canned)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Ginger (1 tablespoon, minced)
• Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons)
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon)
• Brown sugar (1/4 cup)
• Rice vinegar (1/4 cup)
• Ketchup (1/3 cup)
• Soy sauce (1/3 cup)
• Sesame seeds (2 tablespoons, for garnish)
• Green onions (2, sliced, for garnish)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Cooked rice (4 cups, to serve)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and dissolved cornstarch until smooth. Set this flavorful sweet and sour sauce aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers, pineapple chunks, onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender and fragrant.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour the prepared sweet and sour sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and beautifully cling to the chicken and vegetables.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
8. Serve the sweet and sour chicken stir fry over a bed of fluffy cooked rice.
9. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added crunch and burst of flavor.
10. Enjoy your colorful and delicious meal!