Pineapple Chicken and Rice – A Sweet and Savory Delight

There’s something special about the combination of sweet and savory flavors in a dish. It’s comforting yet exciting, familiar yet full of surprises. Pineapple Chicken and Rice is one of those meals that brings warmth to the dinner table, combining the tropical sweetness of pineapple with tender, seasoned chicken and fluffy rice. This dish is a perfect balance of flavors, making it a family favorite and a great go-to for busy weeknights.

Whether you’re looking for a quick meal to satisfy your cravings or something special to brighten up your dinner routine, this recipe is for you. The juicy pineapple chunks add a refreshing twist, while the chicken soaks up all the delicious seasonings, creating a dish that’s as flavorful as it is satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients, so you don’t need to be a pro chef to whip up this incredible meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of flavors – Sweet pineapple pairs beautifully with savory chicken and rice.
• Easy to make – With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this dish comes together quickly.
• Family-friendly – A hit with kids and adults alike!
• One-pan meal – Fewer dishes to wash means less cleanup.
• Great for meal prep – Makes delicious leftovers that taste just as good the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken and Rice

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 ½ cups jasmine or long-grain white rice
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
• ½ cup pineapple juice (from the can or fresh)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Garnish

• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to ensure the seasoning coats every bite of chicken.

In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Pour in the uncooked rice and toast it for about a minute, stirring constantly. This step enhances the rice’s flavor, giving it a slightly nutty aroma.

Next, pour in the chicken broth, pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Once the liquid is simmering, return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in the pineapple chunks, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let everything cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

Step 4: Fluff and Serve

Once the rice is fully cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and mix in the flavors.

Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a fresh, crunchy finish. Serve warm and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

• Use fresh or canned pineapple – Both work well, but if using canned, make sure to drain the pineapple chunks and use the juice for extra flavor.
• Don’t skip toasting the rice – This small step enhances the texture and taste of the final dish.
• Adjust the sweetness – If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a little more honey. If you like it more savory, reduce the honey and add an extra splash of soy sauce.
• Let the rice rest before serving – This helps it absorb any remaining liquid, making it fluffier.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian-inspired
• Diet: Dairy-Free

Notes

• If you want a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha before serving.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 12g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Brown rice works well, but keep in mind it takes longer to cook. You’ll need to increase the cooking time by about 10–15 minutes and possibly add more liquid.

What other vegetables can I add?

This dish pairs well with bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them when you cook the chicken.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make it completely gluten-free.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes! Pineapple Chicken and Rice stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep the rice from drying out.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent the rice from drying out. The microwave also works for a quick and easy option.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Pineapple Chicken and Rice, try these other flavorful dishes:

• Teriyaki Chicken & Pineapple Foil Packets – Sweet, Savory & Juicy!
• Grilled Aloha Chicken and Pineapple
• Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Pear Salsa
• Pineapple Chicken and Rice: A Tropical Culinary Delight

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your dinner table while keeping things simple and satisfying. The blend of sweet pineapple, savory chicken, and perfectly cooked rice creates a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or prepping meals ahead of time, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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