Description
A perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, this pineapple chicken and rice recipe features tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and a flavorful sauce. An easy one-pan meal that’s great for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
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Protein & Base:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 ½ cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
- ¼ cup chicken broth or water
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Sauce & Seasonings:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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Aromatics & Vegetables:
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- ½ cup bell peppers (red or green, sliced)
- ¼ cup green onions (chopped)
- 1 ½ cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
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Thickening Agent (Optional):
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
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Garnish (Optional):
- Toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked (5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics & Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds. Add bell peppers and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and chicken broth. Stir in cornstarch slurry if using.
- Combine Everything: Return chicken to the skillet, add pineapple chunks, and pour the sauce over. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Rice & Finish: Stir in cooked rice, letting it absorb the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve & Garnish: Remove from heat, top with green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve warm.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add Sriracha or increase red pepper flakes.
- Nutty Texture: Add toasted cashews or peanuts.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap rice for cauliflower rice.
- Extra Veggies: Add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots.
- Teriyaki Twist: Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce and honey.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Keywords: pineapple chicken, sweet and savory chicken, one-pan meal, easy weeknight dinner, meal prep recipe