Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delightful combination of savory chicken, sweet pineapple, and fragrant jasmine rice, all brought together in one pan for a delicious, easy meal. This dish brings a tropical flair to your dinner table with the balance of juicy pineapple and the savory goodness of chicken and spices. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that combines both savory and sweet flavors, making it an instant family favorite. With minimal prep time and just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is quick enough to fit into any busy schedule.

Not only does it deliver on flavor, but it also offers a satisfying, balanced meal with protein, veggies, and carbs, making it a great choice for a fulfilling dinner. The aroma of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce will have your kitchen smelling amazing, and the vibrant colors of the red bell pepper and green onions make it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe checks all the boxes for a tasty, easy meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Tropical Twist

The sweet pineapple adds a refreshing and tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and rice.

2. One-Pan Wonder

Everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze and simplifying the cooking process.

3. Flavorful and Balanced

This dish provides a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and veggies, all in one hearty meal.

4. Quick and Easy

With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe can be on your table in just about 30 minutes.

5. Customizable

You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, such as adding more veggies or using different proteins.

Ingredients

Chicken breast (cubed)
Pineapple (cubed)
Olive oil
Onion (chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Red bell pepper (diced)
Jasmine rice
Chicken broth
Soy sauce
Grated ginger
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Green onions (sliced)
Sesame seeds

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or snap peas to boost the nutritional value.
Different Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or pork for a different twist on the dish.
Spicy Kick: If you prefer a spicy dish, add red pepper flakes or fresh chili to the recipe.
Vegan Version: Use tofu instead of chicken, vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and omit the sesame seeds for a plant-based meal.
Rice Options: Swap jasmine rice for brown rice or quinoa if you prefer a whole-grain option.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breast and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Pineapple

Add the cubed pineapple to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes to caramelize slightly.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Stir in the jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, and grated ginger. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Combine and Heat Through

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well with the rice and vegetable mixture. Stir everything together and heat through for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the dish garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and texture.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken just until golden brown and fully cooked to avoid drying it out.
Use Fresh Pineapple: For the best flavor, use fresh pineapple rather than canned pineapple.
Don’t Skip the Ginger: The grated ginger adds a fresh, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness of the pineapple and the savoriness of the soy sauce.
Adjust the Rice-to-Broth Ratio: If you prefer your rice a little more moist, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of chicken broth.
Rest the Rice: Let the rice sit covered for a few minutes after cooking to allow it to fully absorb the liquid.

How to Serve

Serve Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice as a complete meal on its own, or pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad. The dish is vibrant, hearty, and full of flavor, so it’s perfect for any occasion. It also works well as leftovers, making it a great choice for meal prepping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

In the Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
In the Freezer: You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, microwave the dish in a covered container for 1-2 minutes or warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, brown rice works well, but keep in mind that it takes longer to cook. You may need to add more liquid and increase the cook time by 10-15 minutes.

2. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, canned pineapple can be used, but fresh pineapple gives the dish a more vibrant flavor.

3. Can I use a different type of protein?

Absolutely! Shrimp, pork, or tofu would also be delicious in this recipe.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes, fresh chopped chili, or hot sauce to the dish for some heat.

5. Can I make this dish without soy sauce?

If you’re avoiding soy, you can substitute the soy sauce with coconut aminos or a low-sodium tamari sauce.

6. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

7. How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months.

8. Can I use different vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or baby corn to customize the dish.

9. Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari sauce.

10. Can I cook the rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the rice ahead of time and simply combine it with the cooked chicken and vegetables when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a simple, flavorful, and satisfying meal that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. The blend of savory chicken, sweet pineapple, and fragrant rice makes this dish a winner for any occasion. With minimal ingredients, easy steps, and tons of flavor, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a special dinner, this dish offers the perfect balance of savory and sweet!