Name: Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Chicken Breast (Substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option.); 2 tbsp Olive or Sesame Oil (Used for sautéing.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced; use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.); 1/2 cup Soy Sauce (Low sodium is a healthier alternative.); 1/3 cup Pineapple Juice (Use juice from canned pineapple for convenience.); 2 tbsp Honey or Brown Sugar (Consider using maple syrup as a substitute.); 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar (Can use white vinegar in a pinch.); 1 tsp Cornstarch (Mix with 1 tbsp of water to avoid lumps.); 1 tbsp Water; 1.5 cups Cooked Rice (Use white, brown, or jasmine rice based on preference.); 1 cup Pineapple Chunks (Opt for fresh or drained canned chunks.); 1/2 whole Red Bell Pepper (Diced; substitute with other bell peppers or snap peas.); 1/4 cup Green Onions (Chopped; chives make a great substitute.); Sesame seeds (For serving; customize based on taste preferences.); Crushed red pepper (Optional for extra spice.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

introduction

There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of chicken and rice, especially when it’s infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple. I still remember the first time I tried Pineapple Chicken and Rice at a friend’s house. The aroma filled the room, and I couldn’t help but smile as I took my first bite. This dish matters to me because it reminds me of good times shared with friends and family around the dinner table. You’ll love how easy and quick it is to make, yet it feels special and satisfying. The mix of savory chicken, sweet pineapple, and vibrant vegetables makes each bite a treat. Let’s dive into how you can create this delightful dish at home.

why make this recipe

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner. It combines flavors that both kids and adults love, and it doesn’t take much time to prepare. You only need a handful of ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry. This dish is filling, nutritious, and offers a taste of the tropics without needing to go to a fancy restaurant. Plus, it’s versatile—easy to adjust based on what you have or your personal preferences.

how to make Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Ingredients:

1 lb Chicken Breast (Substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option.)
2 tbsp Olive or Sesame Oil (Used for sautéing.)
2 cloves Garlic (Minced; use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.)
1/2 cup Soy Sauce (Low sodium is a healthier alternative.)
1/3 cup Pineapple Juice (Use juice from canned pineapple for convenience.)
2 tbsp Honey or Brown Sugar (Consider using maple syrup as a substitute.)
1 tbsp Rice Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar (Can use white vinegar in a pinch.)
1 tsp Cornstarch (Mix with 1 tbsp of water to avoid lumps.)
1 tbsp Water
1.5 cups Cooked Rice (Use white, brown, or jasmine rice based on preference.)
1 cup Pineapple Chunks (Opt for fresh or drained canned chunks.)
1/2 whole Red Bell Pepper (Diced; substitute with other bell peppers or snap peas.)
1/4 cup Green Onions (Chopped; chives make a great substitute.)
Sesame seeds (For serving; customize based on taste preferences.)
Crushed red pepper (Optional for extra spice.)

Directions:

Start by heating your oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, add the chicken breasts (or thighs) to the skillet. Cook until browned and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, cornstarch mixed with water, and a pinch of red pepper if using.
Pour this mixture over the cooked chicken, stirring well to coat. Add in the pineapple chunks and diced red bell pepper.
Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
Serve the chicken over cooked rice and top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

how to serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice

You can serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice neatly in bowls. The colorful dish looks beautiful when garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. For extra flair, consider adding a few lime wedges on the side. Pair it with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

how to store Pineapple Chicken and Rice

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if it looks too thick.

tips to make Pineapple Chicken and Rice

For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in a bit of soy sauce and pineapple juice for 30 minutes before cooking.
If you like your dish spicy, be sure to add some crushed red pepper flakes.
Experiment with different vegetables like snap peas or carrots for variety.
Serve with lime wedges for a zesty kick.

variation

You can make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the chicken with tofu or using chickpeas for a protein-packed option. Using cauliflower rice instead of regular rice is another great way to make this dish lower in carbs without sacrificing flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

How can I make it spicier?

To add heat, include crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then reheat it just before serving. This way, you have a quick meal ready to go on busy days.