Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Name: Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred); 1 cup white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option); 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice for sauce); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick); Salt and pepper, to taste; For the Pineapple Sauce:; 1/2 cup pineapple juice (reserved from the canned pineapple); 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar); 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or white vinegar); 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: August 7, 2025

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Introduction to Pineapple Chicken and Rice

When life gets hectic, finding a recipe that is both simple and delicious can feel like striking gold. That’s where my go-to dish, Pineapple Chicken and Rice, comes into play. This delightful meal combines tender chicken with sweet pineapple, creating a flavor explosion that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to whip up something special without spending all day in the kitchen, this recipe is bound to bring smiles to your table. Trust me, you’re going to love how easy it is to make this dish shine!

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Chicken and Rice

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s quick to prepare, taking just about 40 minutes from start to finish. The combination of savory and sweet flavors is heavenly, creating a satisfying dish that everyone at the table will adore. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a laid-back weekend gathering.

Ingredients for Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Let’s gather everything we need for this scrumptious Pineapple Chicken and Rice. Below, you’ll find all the ingredients required to whip up this delightful dish.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Tender and juicy, these will be the heart of your dish. Use thighs if you prefer extra flavor and moisture.
White or brown rice: White rice is quick to cook and fluffy, while brown rice adds a heartier texture and more fiber; pick what fits your lifestyle.
Canned pineapple chunks: The star of the show! Sweet and juicy, they lend a tropical flair and balance the savory chicken beautifully.
Olive oil: It’s perfect for sautéing the chicken, adding healthy fats and a subtle richness to the dish.
Garlic powder and onion powder: These spices bring depth and aroma without extra prep. They’re like a flavor hug for your chicken!
Ground ginger: This spice adds a warm, zesty note that enhances the overall balance between sweet and savory.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Looking for a bit of heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes for a kick that’ll tantalize your taste buds.
Salt and pepper: These staples are essential for bringing out all the flavors in your dish. Season to your liking!
Pineapple juice: Reserve it from the canned pineapple. It’s the secret ingredient to create a luscious sauce that ties everything together.
Soy sauce: This adds umami depth. If you’re avoiding gluten, opt for a gluten-free soy sauce.
Honey or brown sugar: Sweetness is key! Honey gives a floral touch, while brown sugar adds a hint of caramel flavor.
Rice vinegar or white vinegar: A splash of acidity balances the sweetness wonderfully. Rice vinegar is my favorite for its mild flavor.
Cornstarch: This is your thickening agent for that velvety sauce. It will transform your sauce from thin to luscious!

Exact quantities for these ingredients are available at the bottom of the article for your convenience. Let’s dive into the fun part—cooking!

How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Ready to bring this delicious Pineapple Chicken and Rice to life? Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the cooking process. I promise it’s easier than a Sunday morning pancake flip. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a mouthwatering meal in no time!

Prepare the Chicken

Season and Cook

Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, salt, and pepper over them. Feel free to mix and match spices according to your taste.

Heat up a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Wait for it to shimmer, then gently lay the seasoned chicken in the pan. Cook each piece for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. You can tell it’s done when the juices run clear—the perfect test for a tender piece of chicken. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Cook the Rice

Rice Cooker or Stovetop

While the chicken is resting, let’s turn our attention to the rice. If you’re using a rice cooker, add your rice and the appropriate amount of water, and let it work its magic.

If you prefer the stovetop method, combine the rice with water in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil first, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes—just enough time for the grains to absorb that lovely water and fluff up perfectly! Once finished, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.

Make the Pineapple Sauce

Combine Ingredients and Thicken

Now for the real flavor boost: the pineapple sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ground ginger.

Bring this delightful mix to a gentle simmer. Here’s a little tip: while the sauce heats, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with a bit of cold water. Once the sauce is simmering, stir this slurry into the mixture to thicken it. Keep stirring for about 2-3 minutes until it’s nice and glossy.

Combine the Chicken and Pineapple

Simmer for Flavor

Next, let’s bring the chicken back into the mix! Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the skillet.

Add those juicy pineapple chunks along with your luscious sauce. Stir everything together, making sure the chicken and pineapple are thoroughly coated. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes. The magical aroma will invade your kitchen and tempt everyone to wander in!

Serve

Garnish Options

You did it! Now it’s time to serve this masterpiece. Scoop fluffy rice onto plates and lovingly layer the chicken and pineapple mixture on top. If you’re feeling fancy, consider garnishing with fresh cilantro and sliced green onions. Not only do they add color, but they also bring an extra burst of flavor!

And there you have it—your beautiful Pineapple Chicken and Rice is ready to impress! It’s warm, colorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Enjoy every bite!

Tips for Success

Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking. This makes the process smoother and faster.
Don’t skip the resting time for your chicken; it keeps the juices locked in.
For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken in a bit of soy sauce and ginger beforehand.
If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked rice to speed up meal prep.
Feel free to customize your sauce with chili flakes for more heat or additional vegetables for extra nutrition.

Equipment Needed

Large Skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken and combining all flavors. A non-stick skillet works great!
Medium Saucepan: Needed to make that luscious pineapple sauce. A pot can do the job too!
Rice Cooker or Saucepan: Either will cook your rice perfectly. Choose based on what you have!
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Helpful for accuracy, especially when using ingredients like honey and soy sauce.

Variations

Teriyaki Twist: Swap the soy sauce for teriyaki sauce for a sweet, tangy flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a delightful plant-based meal.
Brown Rice Swap: Choose brown rice for more fiber and a nuttier taste that complements the dish beautifully.
Spicy Pineapple Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a spicier kick that will excite your taste buds.
Extra Veggies: Toss in some colorful bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added nutrition and crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Fresh Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the dish.
Coconut Rice: For an island twist, serve with coconut-infused rice for added flavor.
Refreshing Beverage: Pair with iced tea or coconut water to balance out the richness.
Presentation: Garnish with lime wedges for a pop of color and extra zest!

FAQs about Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Can I make Pineapple Chicken and Rice ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and make the sauce in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, heat them up and serve over freshly cooked rice.

Is Pineapple Chicken and Rice gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce. Always check the labels before you buy, just to be sure.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Sure! Bell peppers, snap peas, or even broccoli are all delicious additions. Just stir them in when combining the chicken and pineapple for extra color and crunch.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for about 3-4 days, and you can reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

What can I serve with Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

For a balanced meal, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or coconut rice. The contrasting flavors enhance the pineapple chicken experience nicely!

Final Thoughts

As I reflect on this delightful Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe, I’m reminded of the joy it has brought to my family dinner table. The balance of sweet and savory flavors transports me straight to a tropical paradise, even if just for a meal. It’s a dish that feels special, yet comes together in a snap, making it perfect for busy evenings. Watching my loved ones savor each bite fills my heart with joy. I hope this recipe brings as much happiness to your home as it has in mine. Happy cooking!