Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

A Perfect Balance of Sweetness and Savory Goodness

Pineapple chicken and rice is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, making it a fantastic choice for a well-rounded meal. Tender chicken is cooked with juicy pineapple, a medley of seasonings, and fluffy rice, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that impresses with minimal effort, this recipe delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Flavor Balance – The combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken with a touch of soy sauce and garlic creates a depth of flavor.
• Easy One-Pan Meal – Fewer dishes and a streamlined cooking process make this a great option for busy nights.
• Customizable – Easily adjust the level of sweetness or spice to suit your taste preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep – This dish stores well and reheats beautifully for leftovers.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 ½ cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained if using canned)
• 1 ½ cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup bell peppers (red or green, sliced)
• ¼ cup green onions (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening, if desired)
• ¼ cup chicken broth or water
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice (for a hint of acidity)
• Toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the bell peppers and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly softened.

3. Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar (or lime juice), and chicken broth. If using, stir in the cornstarch slurry to help thicken the sauce.

4. Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the pineapple chunks and pour the sauce over the mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Add Rice and Finish

Stir in the cooked rice, ensuring it absorbs the sauce. Let everything cook for another 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

6. Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and top with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or increase the red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Nutty Flavor – Toss in some toasted cashews or peanuts for a crunchy texture.
• Low-Carb Option – Swap the rice for cauliflower rice to make this a lighter dish.
• Extra Veggies – Add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for more color and nutrition.
• Teriyaki Twist – Substitute the soy sauce and honey with teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.

Servings and Cooking Time

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to refresh the moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep this dish gluten-free.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes! Just be sure to drain the juice and use pineapple in 100% juice rather than syrup.

What kind of rice works best?

Jasmine or basmati rice complements the flavors well, but brown rice or quinoa can also be used for a healthier twist.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sauté the chicken using the sauté function, then add the ingredients and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes with a quick release.

What can I serve with pineapple chicken and rice?

This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or a light soup.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Use a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to thicken the sauce.

Can I add more protein?

You can mix in shrimp, tofu, or even cashews for added protein.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! It has a natural sweetness that kids love. You can adjust the spice level by omitting red pepper flakes.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! Cook everything except the rice and store them separately. When ready to eat, reheat and mix in the rice for the best texture.

What if I don’t have fresh ginger?

You can substitute with ½ teaspoon of ground ginger if fresh isn’t available.

Conclusion

This sweet and savory pineapple chicken and rice recipe is a go-to for busy nights when you want something delicious, easy, and satisfying. The combination of juicy pineapple, tender chicken, and a flavorful sauce makes this dish an instant favorite. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking process, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in no time. Try it out and enjoy the perfect harmony of flavors!

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