Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

Let’s talk about a dinner that instantly transports you to a tropical paradise with every single spoonful: Pineapple Chicken and Rice. This wildly flavorful, colorful dish perfectly balances juicy chunks of pineapple with tender chicken, aromatic jasmine rice, and snappy bell peppers—every bite is a joyful blend of sweet and savory. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something a little more festive to brighten up your table, this Pineapple Chicken and Rice is always a crowd-pleaser and so wonderfully easy to pull together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Pineapple Chicken and Rice lies in its short but thoughtfully chosen ingredient list. Each component brings its own special character, from fresh pineapple’s juicy sweetness to ginger’s warming zing. Here’s the lineup and why you absolutely don’t want to skip any of them:

• Chicken Breast: Lean, protein-packed, and soaks up all the saucy flavors beautifully.
• Pineapple, cubed: The star of the show! Bursting with tropical sweetness and a hint of tartness that brightens every bite.
• Olive Oil: Gives everything a luscious, golden sear and helps meld the flavors together.
• Onion, chopped: Lays down a rich, aromatic base as it cooks down until soft and sweet.
• Garlic, minced: Provides irresistible savory depth—do not skimp!
• Red Bell Pepper, diced: For a pop of color and juicy crunch.
• Jasmine Rice: Wonderfully fragrant and slightly sticky, perfect for absorbing all the incredible flavors.
• Chicken Broth: Infuses the rice with savory goodness and rounds out the dish.
• Soy Sauce: Lends a subtle saltiness and a touch of umami complexity.
• Ginger, grated: Adds brightness and a gentle spicy warmth—fresh is best!
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, adjust to taste for a perfectly balanced dish.
• Green Onions, sliced: Sprinkle on top for freshness and a bit of mild zing.
• Sesame Seeds: Optional, but they bring a lovely toasty crunch to finish things off.

How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add those juicy cubes of chicken breast and cook them until they’re golden and just cooked through. This step builds big flavor right from the start—don’t rush it! Once they’ve got that perfect golden color, scoop the chicken out and set aside so you don’t overcook it down the line.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Toss your chopped onion, fresh garlic, and red bell pepper into the same skillet. Let everything soften for about three to four minutes, stirring occasionally to soak up any flavorful leftover bits from the chicken. This trio forms the flavor backbone of your Pineapple Chicken and Rice.

Step 3: Add the Pineapple

Now comes the fun part—stir in your cubed pineapple and give it a quick sauté. Just a couple of minutes will warm the fruit and help blend its tangy sweetness with the savoriness already in the pan. This step is what makes Pineapple Chicken and Rice extraordinary!

Step 4: Simmer the Rice

Pour in the jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good mix, then bring it up to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes. This is where the rice turns irresistibly fluffy and soaks up every bit of pineapple-infused flavor.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Finally, return your cooked chicken to the skillet and stir it into the rice. Let it heat through for just a few minutes so every bite is steamy, flavorful, and unified. Right before serving, sprinkle with sliced green onions and a scattering of sesame seeds for that extra punch of freshness and gentle crunch.

How to Serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Garnishes

Garnishing Pineapple Chicken and Rice is half the fun! A sprinkle of sliced green onions adds a burst of color and zest, while sesame seeds bring just the right amount of toasty crunch. If you’re feeling extra, add a handful of fresh cilantro leaves or a squeeze of lime for a little zing.

Side Dishes

While this dish holds its own as a complete meal, a few thoughtful sidekicks can elevate your dinner table even more. Try it with a crisp cucumber salad, lightly steamed broccoli, or a handful of snap peas tossed in sesame oil. These sides keep things fresh, light, and vibrant, playing beautifully off the flavors in Pineapple Chicken and Rice.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress? Serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice inside a hollowed-out pineapple half for some instant wow-factor—plus, it makes clean-up a breeze! You can also spoon it into individual bowls, topped with extra pineapple and bell pepper, or even roll it up in lettuce leaves for a fun, bite-sized twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors in Pineapple Chicken and Rice get even better as they mingle, making for especially delicious lunches and quick heat-and-eat dinners.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well. Scoop the cooled Pineapple Chicken and Rice into freezer-safe bags or containers (removing as much air as possible), then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and taste.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm your Pineapple Chicken and Rice on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the sauciness. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to overdo it—you want everything juicy, not dry.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Absolutely! While fresh pineapple gives the brightest flavor and texture, canned pineapple (drained) works great if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to use pineapple in juice, not syrup, so the dish doesn’t become overly sweet.

Is Pineapple Chicken and Rice gluten free?

With a quick swap, yes it can be! Just use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce, and confirm your chicken broth is gluten-free—then you’re all set to enjoy Pineapple Chicken and Rice without worry.

What’s the best rice to use for this recipe?

Jasmine rice is ideal because of its fragrance and texture, but if you’re in a pinch, basmati or even plain white rice will work. Avoid short-grain or sticky rice varieties, as they can get too clumpy for the saucy profile of this dish.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in snap peas, broccoli florets, or carrots for even more crunch and color. Pineapple Chicken and Rice is super adaptable, so let your fridge and your taste buds guide you.

How spicy can I make this?

If you love heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing your aromatics, or drizzle with hot sauce just before serving. The sweet pineapple in Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the perfect match for a little extra spice!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a mealtime escape that’s equal parts hearty, simple, and a little bit dazzling, Pineapple Chicken and Rice is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen too. Give it a try, share it with friends, and savor every sweet and savory bite!

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