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Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that combines sweet and savory elements? Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the perfect dish! This recipe features tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and perfectly seasoned rice, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make Pineapple Chicken and Rice, including key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, expert tips, presentation ideas, creative twists, and a pro tip for customization.

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

Quick and easy – It’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One-pan meal – Less cleanup and more flavor as everything cooks together.
Perfect balance of flavors – The combination of sweet pineapple, savory chicken, and seasoned rice is irresistible.
Customizable – You can easily adapt this dish to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in delivering a delicious and well-balanced dish.

1. Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this dish. Thighs provide more flavor and tenderness, while breasts are leaner and cook faster. The chicken absorbs the pineapple juices and seasonings, making it juicy and flavorful.

2. Pineapple

Fresh or canned pineapple chunks add natural sweetness and a hint of tanginess. The acidity in pineapple also helps tenderize the chicken while adding a tropical twist.

3. Rice

Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice is ideal because it absorbs flavors well and stays fluffy. Brown rice can be used for a healthier alternative but requires a longer cooking time.

4. Soy Sauce

Soy sauce adds umami depth and enhances the overall flavor. If you want a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos.

5. Garlic and Ginger

These aromatics bring warmth and depth of flavor. Freshly minced garlic and ginger give the dish an authentic Asian-inspired taste.

6. Bell Peppers

Adding red, green, or yellow bell peppers not only boosts color but also brings a slight crunch and sweetness to balance the flavors.

7. Chicken Broth

Instead of cooking rice in plain water, using chicken broth enhances the flavor and adds richness.

8. Sesame Oil

A small amount of sesame oil brings a toasty, nutty aroma, making the dish even more flavorful.

9. Green Onions and Cilantro

Fresh green onions and cilantro add brightness and a fresh finish to the dish.

10. Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)

For a spicy kick, red pepper flakes or sriracha can be added to balance the sweetness of the pineapple.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients for Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Main Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
1 cup uncooked jasmine rice (or long-grain white rice)
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon ginger (minced)
1 red bell pepper (chopped)
1 green bell pepper (chopped)
2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Optional Garnishes

Fresh cilantro (chopped)
Toasted sesame seeds
Extra pineapple chunks

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and black pepper.
Chop the bell peppers, green onions, and pineapple chunks.
Mince the garlic and ginger for added depth of flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

In the same skillet, add sesame oil, then sauté the garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the bell peppers and cook for 2–3 minutes, until slightly softened.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Stir in the uncooked rice and let it toast for about 1 minute to enhance the flavor.
Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, stirring well to combine.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Add Pineapple and Chicken

Once the rice is cooked, return the chicken to the pan and add the pineapple chunks.
Stir everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
If you like spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes at this stage.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and let the dish rest for a couple of minutes.
Garnish with green onions, cilantro, and toasted sesame seeds.

Expert Tips for the Best Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Use fresh pineapple for a more vibrant taste – If using canned pineapple, drain excess juice to prevent the dish from becoming too sweet.
Don’t rush the rice cooking process – Let it simmer on low heat to ensure it absorbs all the flavors.
For crispy chicken, sear it well – Cooking the chicken over high heat for a few minutes helps achieve a golden-brown exterior.

Presentation Tips

Serve in a hollowed-out pineapple – For a restaurant-style touch, cut a pineapple in half, scoop out the inside, and use it as a serving bowl.
Use colorful garnishes – Green onions, cilantro, and sesame seeds make the dish look fresh and appealing.

Creative Twists

1. Make It Spicy

Add sriracha, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños for a fiery kick.

2. Make It Tropical

Add shredded coconut or mango chunks for a tropical twist.

3. Turn It into Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

Use leftover cooked rice instead of uncooked rice and stir-fry everything together for a quicker meal.

Pro Tip for Customization

Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or pork – This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can use shrimp for a seafood version or tofu for a vegetarian alternative while keeping the same sweet and savory flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Increase the broth by ½ cup and simmer for about 30–35 minutes.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Pineapple Chicken and Rice stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

3. What vegetables can I add?

You can add carrots, peas, zucchini, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.

4. Can I freeze Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

Yes, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat by adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Final Thoughts

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Whether you serve it in a pineapple bowl, add a spicy kick, or customize it with different proteins, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy a taste of the tropics!