When I first came across the idea for pineapple chicken and rice, I wasn’t sure how well the sweet, tangy pineapple would pair with the savory chicken. But let me tell you, after just one bite, I was hooked! The combination of juicy, tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and the sweet burst of pineapple creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting to eat. It’s a flavor combination you never knew you needed until you try it.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
Versatile
This pineapple chicken and rice recipe is super versatile. You can easily adapt it by adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. If you prefer a little extra heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. The dish works well with different proteins too — try swapping chicken for shrimp or turkey for a twist.
Budget-friendly
One of the best parts about this recipe is how budget-friendly it is. Chicken is an affordable protein, and pineapple is often reasonably priced, especially if you use canned or frozen varieties. Plus, rice is a pantry staple that’s inexpensive and easy to keep on hand. This meal delivers a big punch of flavor without breaking the bank.
Ingredients for the recipe:
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2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, diced
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 cup jasmine or white rice
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1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1/4 cup soy sauce
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1 tablespoon honey
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
This pineapple chicken and rice is an easy-to-make dish that will become a family favorite. The mix of savory and sweet flavors creates a meal that’s both satisfying and unique.
How to make this recipe
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Prepare the rice:
Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. If you’re using jasmine rice, it usually takes about 15-20 minutes to cook. Set the rice aside once it’s done and keep it covered to keep it warm. You can also use leftover rice for this recipe, which helps speed up the process! -
Cook the chicken:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken breasts to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Stir occasionally and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. -
Make the pineapple sauce:
In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, and reserved pineapple juice. Stir to combine, scraping up any bits of chicken from the bottom of the pan to add flavor to the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, and let it cook for 3-5 minutes to reduce slightly. This will create a rich, flavorful sauce that will complement the chicken and rice beautifully. -
Combine the chicken, rice, and pineapple:
Once the sauce has thickened a little, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce. Next, add the pineapple chunks to the skillet and mix them in with the chicken. Let everything simmer together for 3-4 minutes, allowing the pineapple to heat through and soak up the delicious sauce. -
Serve and enjoy:
Finally, serve the pineapple chicken mixture over the warm, fluffy rice. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and a bit of extra flavor. The combination of savory chicken, sweet pineapple, and the flavorful sauce will make your taste buds dance. This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of steamed veggies or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.
Quick and easy
This recipe is a great option for busy weeknights or when you want a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The entire dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those times when you need something quick but satisfying. The rice cooks while you prep the chicken, and everything comes together in one skillet. It’s a true one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze.
Customizable
The best part about this dish is how customizable it is. You can add whatever vegetables you like — bell peppers, snap peas, or even some sautéed onions would work great. For a spicier version, you can add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also swap out the chicken for shrimp, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. The pineapple is the star, but the rest of the ingredients are flexible.
Perfect for guests
This pineapple chicken and rice dish is not only easy and quick to make, but it’s also perfect for entertaining guests. It looks impressive and tastes amazing, but it doesn’t require much effort. You can make it in large batches, so it’s great for family gatherings or dinner parties. The sweetness of the pineapple and the savory chicken will please a wide range of tastes, and you can easily scale it up or down depending on how many people you’re serving.
Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or at a dinner party, this pineapple chicken and rice recipe is a hit. It’s an easy, flavorful meal that will impress everyone around the table. The combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken is irresistible, and you can customize it to suit your taste preferences.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white rice. Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. Brown rice will also add a slightly nuttier flavor and a firmer texture to the dish.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can make this recipe ahead of time, though it’s best served fresh. If you’re preparing it in advance, cook the chicken, pineapple, and sauce, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in a skillet and cook the rice fresh.
3. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will work just as well as canned pineapple. Simply peel, core, and chop the pineapple into bite-sized chunks before adding it to the skillet.
4. Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
If you want to add a bit of heat to this dish, try adding red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or some chopped fresh chilies to the sauce. This will give the dish a nice spicy kick to balance the sweetness of the pineapple.
5. Can I use a different protein besides chicken?
Yes, this recipe works with shrimp, turkey, pork, or even tofu if you’re looking for a different protein option. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose to ensure everything is cooked through properly.