Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice: A Tropical Twist on a Classic Dish 🍍🍗🍚✨

1. Introduction

Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines sweet and savory flavors? This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is the perfect choice! With tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and fluffy rice, this dish is packed with flavor and sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pineapple chicken and rice recipe will impress everyone at the table. The combination of tropical sweetness from the pineapple with the savory chicken creates a perfect balance that’s both comforting and exciting.

2. Ingredients

To make this pineapple chicken and rice recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients that create a perfect harmony of flavors:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup jasmine rice (or basmati rice for a fragrant alternative)
• 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced (about 1 small pineapple)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced for vibrant color
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder if fresh isn’t available)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided for cooking)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan alternative)
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat lovers)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (parsley works too if you dislike cilantro)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and season generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken develops a beautiful golden-brown crust and is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. For extra juicy chicken, try not to overcrowd the pan – you might need to cook in batches if your skillet is small.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

In a medium saucepan, rinse the jasmine rice under cold running water until the water runs clear – this removes excess starch for fluffier rice. Add 2 cups of fresh water and a pinch of salt, then bring to a rolling boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover tightly with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and all the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. For extra flavor, you can cook the rice in chicken broth instead of water.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables and Pineapple

In the same skillet used for the chicken (don’t wash it – those browned bits add flavor!), heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger, and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and the onions become translucent. Add the sliced bell peppers and diced pineapple, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the pineapple starts to caramelize slightly. The natural sugars in the pineapple will create a wonderful caramelization that adds depth to the dish.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables and pineapple. Stir in the soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully. The sauce should slightly thicken and coat all the ingredients. Serve the pineapple chicken mixture over a bed of the prepared jasmine rice, garnished generously with fresh cilantro leaves. For a complete meal, pair with a simple green salad or some steamed broccoli.

4. Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Chicken and Rice

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking. This simple step makes a huge difference in flavor penetration.
• Use fresh pineapple for the best taste and texture – it’s sweeter and less acidic than canned. If using canned pineapple, be sure to drain it well and pat dry to prevent excess liquid in the dish.
• Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less red pepper flakes. You can also add a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
• For a complete lunch or dinner, serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• If you love creamy dishes, try stirring in a tablespoon of coconut milk at the end for a tropical twist.

5. Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute tofu (extra firm, pressed and cubed) or chickpeas for the chicken. Marinate the tofu in the same sauce for best results.
• Spicy Version: Add a diced jalapeño or extra red pepper flakes for heat. You can also stir in some sambal oelek or chili garlic sauce.
• Extra Sweet: Drizzle with additional honey or pineapple juice for a sweeter taste, or add some diced mango for another layer of tropical flavor.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier sauce that complements the pineapple beautifully.
• Rice Alternatives: Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or quinoa for extra protein.

6. Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop more overnight, making this a great make-ahead meal. When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the rice moist. You can reheat in the microwave (stirring halfway) or on the stovetop over medium-low heat. For meal prep, keep the rice separate from the chicken mixture until ready to serve to prevent the rice from becoming mushy.

7. Nutritional Information

This pineapple chicken and rice recipe is a balanced meal with protein, fiber, and vitamins. Each serving (about 1.5 cups) contains approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g (great for muscle building and repair)
• Carbohydrates: 45g (including 3g fiber for digestive health)
• Fat: 8g (mostly healthy unsaturated fats from olive oil)
• Vitamin C: 120% DV (from pineapple and bell peppers)
• Iron: 15% DV (from chicken and rice)

For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of rice and increase the vegetables. Check out our healthy cottage cheese alfredo for another nutritious meal option.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice? Absolutely! Brown rice works well but requires longer cooking time (about 40 minutes) and more liquid. Follow the package instructions for best results.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, this is an excellent make-ahead meal. Prepare the components separately and combine when ready to serve. The flavors actually improve after a day in the fridge!

Is this recipe gluten-free? It can be! Simply use tamari instead of regular soy sauce to make it gluten-free. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use frozen pineapple? Yes, but thaw and drain it well first to prevent excess moisture in the dish. Fresh pineapple is preferred for best texture and flavor.

What other proteins work well? Shrimp, pork, or even firm white fish would be delicious alternatives to chicken in this recipe. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

9. Conclusion

This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is more than just a meal – it’s a tropical vacation on a plate! The combination of juicy pineapple, tender chicken, and fluffy rice creates a harmony of flavors that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers every time. The sweet and savory balance makes it appealing to both kids and adults, while the vibrant colors make it as beautiful as it is delicious. For more comforting chicken dishes, try our creamy smoked sausage pasta or cheesy hamburger potato soup. Inspired by traditional Hawaiian flavors but simplified for home cooks, this dish proves that gourmet meals don’t have to be complicated. Try it tonight and enjoy a taste of paradise at home! 🌴🍍🍗

For more pineapple chicken inspiration, check out this great resource from The Kitchn with additional variations on this tropical favorite.

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Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

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• Total Time: 40 minutes

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Description

Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a tropical twist on a classic dish, combining tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and fluffy rice for a perfect balance of flavors. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, packed with wholesome ingredients and vibrant taste.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt, then bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
3. In the same skillet used for the chicken, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger, and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the sliced bell peppers and diced pineapple, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables and pineapple. Stir in the soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve the pineapple chicken and rice mixture over the prepared jasmine rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Notes

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and honey for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Use fresh pineapple for the best taste, but canned pineapple (drained) works in a pinch.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
• For a complete meal, serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350 Kcal
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: pineapple chicken and rice, sweet and savory chicken, tropical chicken recipe, easy dinner recipe, jasmine rice recipe, healthy chicken dish