This Pineapple Chicken & Rice dish is a tropical escape in every bite. Picture tender, juicy chicken simmered in a sweet and savory pineapple sauce, all served over fluffy rice that soaks up all that deliciousness. The perfect balance of tangy pineapple and seasoned chicken makes it an absolute treat for your taste buds! It’s the kind of meal that feels special but is easy enough to whip up on a busy night. Trust me, you’re going to fall in love with this one.
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Why You’ll Love Pineapple Chicken & Rice
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or a laid-back gathering with friends, this dish is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for a family weeknight dinner, or when you want something that feels fancy enough for guests. You’ll have a tropical-inspired dish without stepping foot on an island.
Budget-Friendly: It uses simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand. You can make something super flavorful without splurging on expensive items.
Quick and Easy: A short list of ingredients and straightforward steps means you can get this on the table fast. It’s a great go-to meal when you’re pressed for time but want to enjoy something homemade.
Customizable: Want a little more spice? Toss in some chili flakes. Want a more savory vibe? Swap the pineapple for a touch of soy sauce or teriyaki.
Crowd-Pleasing: A sweet and savory combo that is sure to please all ages. Whether it’s a picky eater or someone who loves bold flavors, this dish hits the spot every time.
Ingredients
Here’s the magic of this dish—it comes together with a few simple ingredients that work together perfectly. Let’s break it down:
Chicken Breasts: The base of the dish. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook up juicy and tender in that delicious pineapple sauce.
Pineapple: Fresh or canned pineapple adds just the right amount of sweetness and tang to the dish. The juicy chunks give it a refreshing burst.
Rice: Fluffy white or jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. It’s the perfect canvas for all the goodness happening in the pan.
Olive Oil: A little drizzle to cook the chicken to golden perfection.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that rich, savory undertone.
Soy Sauce: For a bit of umami and depth to balance the sweetness of the pineapple.
Honey: To enhance that tropical sweetness and make the sauce extra luscious.
Salt and Pepper: To season everything perfectly.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s get cooking and create this tropical masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden color.
Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add olive oil to the pan, then cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Once cooked, set the chicken aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.
Add the Pineapple: Stir in the pineapple chunks and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the pan, spooning the pineapple sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a couple of minutes so it absorbs the flavor.
Cook the Rice: While the chicken simmers, cook your rice according to the package instructions. Fluff it up once done, and you’ll have the perfect base for your pineapple chicken.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the pineapple chicken over the fluffy rice and drizzle with extra sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs if you like, and get ready for a tropical treat!
How to Serve Pineapple Chicken & Rice
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that complement its tropical vibes:
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas add some freshness and crunch to balance out the richness of the chicken.
Crisp Salad: A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory chicken.
Grilled Pineapple: For a double dose of pineapple goodness, serve with grilled pineapple for added caramelized sweetness.
As a Standalone: This dish is hearty enough on its own, but adding a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley will bring it to life!
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to elevate this recipe:
Prep Ahead: Chop the pineapple and garlic ahead of time to save a few minutes when it’s time to cook.
Customize the Sauce: If you like a stronger kick, add a splash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Substitute Protein: This recipe also works great with chicken thighs, shrimp, or even tofu if you’re looking for a different protein.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.
Double the Batch: This recipe is easy to double, and the leftovers make a great lunch the next day.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
A1: Yes! Chicken thighs, shrimp, or even tofu can work as great substitutes in this recipe.
Q2: Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
A2: Absolutely! Just be sure to use pineapple chunks in juice, not syrup, for that bright, tangy flavor.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the rice fresh to keep it fluffy.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q5: Can I freeze this dish?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cook the rice fresh when you reheat.
Q6: What kind of rice should I use?
A6: Jasmine rice or basmati rice works wonderfully with this dish. You can also use brown rice for a healthier twist.
Q7: Can I make this dish spicier?
A7: Yes! Add some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce to give it a spicy kick.
Q8: Can I make the sauce thicker?
A8: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it a little longer to reduce and thicken, or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken it.
Q9: Can I use frozen pineapple?
A9: Yes, frozen pineapple works too! Just thaw it and use it in the sauce as you would fresh pineapple.
Q10: How can I make this dish more colorful?
A10: Add some colorful bell peppers or snap peas to the dish for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Conclusion
Pineapple Chicken & Rice is the perfect way to bring a bit of sunshine to your dinner table. It’s quick, simple, and packed with flavor that everyone will love. Whether you’re craving something tropical or just in the mood for a comforting meal, this dish delivers. So grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy this vibrant, delicious meal!
Print
Pineapple Chicken & Rice
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Pineapple Chicken & Rice recipe is a sweet and savory dish that combines juicy chicken with fragrant rice and a burst of tropical pineapple flavor. Perfect for a quick dinner idea, it’s easy to prepare and brings a refreshing twist to your usual chicken dinner. Whether you’re cooking for the family or hosting guests, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the rice, chicken broth, pineapple chunks, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the skillet and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- You can substitute the pineapple with other fruits like mango or peach for a different flavor profile.
- If using canned pineapple, ensure it is in juice, not syrup, for a lighter taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg