Pineapple Chicken and Rice

A Sweet and Savory Delight

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a flavorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with the savory goodness of tender chicken and fragrant rice. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and delicious tropical flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Meal – Easy preparation and minimal cleanup.
• Balanced Flavors – The sweetness of pineapple pairs beautifully with savory soy sauce and garlic.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Customizable – Easily adaptable with different vegetables and seasonings.
• Family-Friendly – A dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Marinade:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Rice and Vegetables:

• 1 cup jasmine or long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
• 1 bell pepper (chopped, any color)
• ½ cup green onions (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup cashews or sliced almonds (optional, for crunch)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, ginger powder, and cornstarch.
2. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice

1. In the same pan, add sesame oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the rice and stir to coat in the oil.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Once the rice is cooked, stir in the bell peppers, pineapple chunks, soy sauce, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix well.
3. Let everything cook together for an additional 3-5 minutes until heated through.
4. Sprinkle with green onions and nuts if using.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor.
• Pair with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option – Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh.
• Brown Rice Alternative – Substitute white rice with brown rice for added fiber.
• Extra Spice – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
• More Veggies – Include snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms.
• Hawaiian Style – Add shredded coconut or a splash of coconut milk for a richer taste.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use brown rice, lean chicken breast, and reduce the soy sauce or substitute it with low-sodium soy sauce.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes! Just make sure to drain the syrup to avoid excess sweetness.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side of steamed vegetables, a light cucumber salad, or even egg rolls complement this dish well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and store it for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

What other proteins can I use?

Shrimp, beef, or pork work well as substitutes.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

Use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio and avoid overcooking.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients except the green onions and nuts, then cook on low for 4-5 hours.

Can I add eggs like in fried rice?

Absolutely! Scramble an egg separately and stir it in before serving.

What’s the best way to cut pineapple chunks?

Use a sharp knife to trim the skin, then slice around the core before dicing into chunks.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that brings together sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors in one dish. Whether you’re looking for a convenient weeknight dinner or a meal-prep-friendly option, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a taste of tropical comfort food!

Print