Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that pairs the tropical sweetness of pineapple with savory chicken and fragrant jasmine rice. It's quick to make and perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a casual gathering. The blend of ingredients creates a vibrant dish with a balance of textures and flavors that is both comforting and refreshing.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cubed

• 1 cup pineapple, cubed

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 cup jasmine rice

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated

• Salt and pepper to taste

• ¼ cup green onions, sliced

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

2. In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened.

3. Add the cubed pineapple to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes.

4. Stir in the jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, grated ginger, 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.

5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well to distribute the flavors evenly. Heat through.

6. Serve the dish garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or fresh chili for a bit of heat.

• Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or zucchini to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent the rice from drying out.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes, fresh chili, or a bit of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for extra heat.

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, canned pineapple can be used if fresh pineapple is unavailable. Just make sure to drain it well before using.

Can I use another protein besides chicken?

Absolutely! This dish works well with shrimp, tofu, or pork if you prefer a different protein.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to cook. Just add the pineapple and chicken at the end.

How do I make the rice fluffier?

Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, and allow it to rest covered after cooking for about 5 minutes before serving.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?

To prevent overcooking, make sure to cook the chicken in batches if needed and remove it from the pan as soon as it turns golden brown.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative instead of regular soy sauce.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or a simple stir-fry on the side.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, offering a tropical twist on traditional chicken and rice dishes. Its vibrant colors, mouthwatering flavors, and versatility make it a go-to meal for any occasion. Whether you're preparing a family dinner or impressing guests, this dish will be a hit every time!

Print

Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delicious one-pan meal that brings together juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and fragrant jasmine rice in a savory soy-ginger sauce. This tropical-inspired recipe is quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. It’s a vibrant dish that’s as visually appealing as it is satisfying.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian-inspired / Tropical fusion
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, cubed

1 cup pineapple, cubed

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cup jasmine rice

2 cups chicken broth

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon ginger, grated

Salt and pepper to taste

¼ cup green onions, sliced

1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

• In the same skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened.

• Add pineapple and cook for 2 minutes.

• Stir in jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

• Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, until rice is cooked.

• Return chicken to the skillet, mix well, and heat through.

• Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

• For extra spice, add chili flakes or fresh sliced chili.

• Swap in tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

• Rinse rice before cooking for fluffier texture.

• Canned pineapple can be used if fresh is unavailable—just drain it well.

• Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.