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Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe


  • Author: Maroua Boulila
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

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
  • 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
  • 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)
  • 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)
  • Thickening Agent (Optional):

    • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
  • 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