If you’re on the hunt for a dish that brings a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and downright satisfying flavors, look no further than this Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe. It’s a delightful medley where tender chicken meets juicy pineapple chunks, all tossed together with vibrant bell peppers and a rich, glossy sauce that clings lovingly to every grain of jasmine rice. This dish is a true weeknight winner—easy to prepare but packed with enough flavor and texture to make it feel like a special treat. Plus, it’s colorful and nourishing, hitting that sweet spot between comfort food and a fresh, balanced meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. These simple, wholesome components come together beautifully to create a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
- Olive oil: Provides the perfect non-stick base and a subtle fruity richness for cooking the chicken.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Tender and lean, this protein soaks up the sweet and savory sauce wonderfully.
- Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and veggies.
- Red bell pepper: Adds a crisp texture and a pop of vibrant color that brightens the plate.
- Fresh or canned pineapple chunks: The star of the dish bringing juicy sweetness and tropical flair.
- Garlic cloves: Minced for a punch of aromatic depth and warmth.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Adds savory umami that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
- Honey: Sweetens the sauce naturally and helps it achieve that glossy sheen.
- Rice vinegar: Brings a gentle tang that cuts through richness and brightens flavors.
- Sesame oil: Offers a toasty, nutty aroma that makes the dish truly irresistible.
- Cornstarch mixed with water: Thickens the sauce so it clings perfectly to the chicken and rice.
- Cooked jasmine rice: The fragrant, fluffy foundation that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- Green onions: Sliced fresh for a mild oniony crunch and a lovely garnish.
- Sesame seeds (optional): Added for extra texture and a hint of nuttiness on top.
How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season your bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are nicely browned and cooked through. This step locks in flavor and ensures juicy, tender bites.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies and Pineapple
Next, toss in the diced red bell pepper, pineapple chunks, and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for 2 to 3 minutes. The bell pepper will soften slightly but keep a bit of crunch, while the pineapple will warm up and release its sweet juices that blend beautifully with the garlic’s savory aroma.
Step 3: Make and Add the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour this glossy mixture into the skillet, then bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and luxuriously coats every piece of chicken and pineapple. This step transforms the dish, elevating it with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Step 4: Combine with Rice
Finally, add the cooked jasmine rice to your skillet and stir well to combine everything evenly. Allow the rice to heat through and absorb the wonderful sauce. Once everything is well mixed and warm, remove the skillet from the heat.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish off your Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe by sprinkling sliced green onions and optional sesame seeds on top. These simple garnishes bring fresh color, a hint of crunch, and a little extra flavor that makes the whole dish sing. Serve it piping hot and watch it disappear from the table!
How to Serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your dish with fresh sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds not only adds visual appeal but also injects a burst of freshness and subtle nuttiness. You can also add a few red chili flakes if you want a mild kick to contrast the sweetness.
Side Dishes
This Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe pairs fabulously with a crisp side salad dressed lightly with lime juice or some steamed green veggies like broccoli or snap peas. The fresh crunch and bitterness of the sides balance the sweetness in the main dish perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve the salad and rice in hollowed-out pineapple halves to echo the tropical theme. Alternatively, arrange the chicken and rice over a bed of baby spinach or fresh herbs like cilantro to add color and a fresh herbal note. These little touches make your dinner feel extra special without any hassle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Storing it properly preserves both flavor and texture so you can enjoy it just as much the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, portion the dish into meal-sized containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Keep in mind that fresh vegetables may become softer after freezing, so it’s best to consume sooner rather than later for optimal texture.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating helps keep the rice moist and prevents drying out. Stir occasionally to evenly reheat all the ingredients.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice with this recipe?
Absolutely! While jasmine rice offers a wonderful fragrance and texture, you can substitute it with brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, or even use cauliflower rice if you want a low-carb version.
Is it possible to make this Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap out the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh. Just make sure to press and cube your tofu, and cook it until golden before adding the sauce and pineapple. The flavors will remain just as delicious.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for meal prep?
Definitely! This recipe reheats well and makes a fantastic meal prep option. Store in individual portions, and you’ll have a nutritious, flavorful meal ready to go for busy days.
What can I add if I like my dish spicier?
To add heat, try mixing in some chili garlic sauce, fresh chopped chilies, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes either in the sauce or as a garnish. It complements the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully.
Can I marinate the chicken beforehand for more flavor?
Yes, marinating the chicken in the sauce mixture for 30 minutes before cooking intensifies the depth of flavor and tenderizes the meat, making each bite even more delightful.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe has quickly become a favorite for good reason—its vibrant flavors, ease of preparation, and satisfying texture combo make it just the kind of meal to brighten any day. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish promises smiles around the table. Give it a try soon and discover how this tropical-inspired dinner can easily become a comfort food staple in your kitchen!
Print
Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is a deliciously sweet and savory stir-fry that combines tender chicken breast with juicy pineapple chunks, colorful bell peppers, and a flavorful homemade sauce. Quick and easy to prepare on the stovetop, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner with an Asian-inspired flair.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks (drained if canned)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Base
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice
Optional Garnish
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare and Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 6 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Add Vegetables and Pineapple: Stir in the diced red bell pepper, pineapple chunks, and minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender and the pineapple is warmed through.
- Make and Add Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour this sauce into the skillet and bring it to a simmer, coating the chicken and vegetables evenly.
- Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken and veggies.
- Combine with Rice: Add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet and stir well until all ingredients are combined and heated through evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use brown rice or cauliflower rice as a healthier alternative.
- Swap red bell pepper with broccoli or snap peas for different vegetable options.
- Marinate the chicken in the sauce mixture for 30 minutes before cooking for enhanced flavor.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your taste.
