Do Share Recipe

Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe | Sweet, Savory & Easy Meal

I have to admit, I wasn’t sure what to expect the first time I made this Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe. The combination of sweet pineapple with tender chicken seemed unusual, but once I took that first bite, I was hooked. The dish is bursting with flavor, yet it’s incredibly easy to make.

I love that it brings a tropical twist to a simple weeknight dinner. Plus, the aroma of the sauce simmering fills my kitchen with a mouthwatering scent that makes everyone gather around the table. Just like trying a fun dessert like Chocolate Covered Strawberries Wedding Recipe adds excitement, this dish keeps weeknights interesting.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful pineapple chicken and rice dish. I’ve included tips to get the best results with each ingredient.

Chicken and Vegetables:

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced – ensures even cooking and tender bites
1 tbsp olive oil – gives a golden, slightly crispy exterior
Salt and pepper, to taste – simple seasoning that enhances flavor
1 bell pepper, diced – adds crunch and color; any color works
1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained – juicy sweetness that balances savory notes

Rice:

2 cups cooked white rice – acts as a fluffy base to soak up the sauce

Sauce:

¼ cup reserved pineapple juice – natural sweetness and tang
2 tbsp soy sauce – adds depth and umami
1 tbsp honey – balances the saltiness of soy sauce
½ tsp garlic powder – brings aromatic warmth
½ tsp ground ginger – adds a gentle spicy note

Optional Garnishes:

Green onions or sesame seeds – for added color and flavor

Note: several serving as a note of full line under the ingredients quantity.

Variations

This recipe is very versatile. Here are some alternative options you can try:

Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
Swap honey with maple syrup or agave for a vegan-friendly version.
Replace soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Add red chili flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.
Stir in chopped cashews or almonds for added crunch, similar to adding a treat like Pistachio Wedding Cookies Recipe for a sweet touch.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large skillet – for cooking chicken, vegetables, and sauce all in one pan
Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient ratios
Knife and cutting board – for dicing chicken and vegetables
Small bowl – to whisk together the sauce
Spatula – for stirring and ensuring even cooking

How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe?

Prepare the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes.

Add the Bell Peppers

Toss in the diced bell peppers and cook for 2–3 minutes. They should remain slightly crisp for a nice texture contrast.

Incorporate the Pineapple

Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for another 2 minutes. This allows the tropical aroma to infuse the dish.

Create the Magic Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and ginger. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly.

Let It Simmer

Simmer uncovered for 4–5 minutes. The sauce will thicken and cling to every piece of chicken and pineapple, creating a glossy finish.

Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the pineapple chicken over a bed of fluffy rice. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for a restaurant-quality presentation.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

I’ve made this dish several times, and these tips make it even better:

I like to marinate the chicken in a bit of soy sauce for 10 minutes before cooking for extra flavor.
Using fresh pineapple instead of canned can enhance the tropical taste.
I always cook the rice a little underdone so it absorbs the sauce better.
Letting the sauce simmer longer thickens it beautifully and intensifies flavor.

How to Serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe?

This dish is versatile when it comes to serving. You can:

Serve it family-style in a large skillet for a fun, casual meal.
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for vibrant presentation.
Pair with steamed broccoli or a light side salad to add color and nutrition.
For a fun twist, serve it in pineapple bowls for a tropical presentation.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving:

Calories: 350–400
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 10g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or pineapple juice to keep it moist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this pineapple chicken and rice dish is worth making:

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Flavor-Packed: Balanced sweet and savory notes that everyone loves.
Kid-Friendly: Mild yet delicious flavors that appeal to all ages.
Flexible: Easy to customize with dietary swaps or extra veggies.
Minimal Cleanup: One-pan cooking makes it convenient and simple.

This pineapple chicken and rice recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. It’s quick, colorful, and bursting with flavor—a tropical escape right in your kitchen.

Ben Carraoli