Dinner

Pineapple Chicken and Rice: Sweet, Savory, and Shockingly Simple Recipe

Name: Pineapple Chicken and Rice: Sweet, Savory, and Shockingly Simple Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 lb Chicken Breast (substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option); 2 tbsp Olive or Sesame Oil (used for sautéing; sesame oil adds a nutty flavor); 2 cloves Garlic, minced (use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable); 1/2 cup Soy Sauce (low sodium is a healthier alternative); 1/3 cup Pineapple Juice (use juice from canned pineapple for convenience); 2 tbsp Honey or Brown Sugar (consider using maple syrup as a substitute); 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar (can use white vinegar in a pinch); 1 tsp Cornstarch (mix with 1 tbsp Water to avoid lumps); 1 tbsp Water; 1.5 cups Cooked Rice (use white, brown, or jasmine rice based on preference); 1 cup Pineapple Chunks (opt for fresh or drained canned chunks); 1/2 Red Bell Pepper, diced (substitute with other bell peppers or snap peas); 1/4 cup Green Onions, chopped (chives make a great substitute); Sesame seeds (for serving; customize based on taste preferences); Crushed red pepper (optional for extra spice)

ByZoe Lane January 16, 2026January 16, 2026

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Introduction

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a vibrant and easy-to-make dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. Featuring tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and a glossy sauce all tossed with rice, it’s a tropical delight that’s sure to please the whole family.

A bowl filled with three layers: the bottom layer is white rice with some grains visible, looking fluffy and soft; the middle layer is golden-brown grilled chicken pieces with a slightly charred texture; the top layer consists of bright yellow pineapple chunks that look juicy and fresh, scattered evenly and sprinkled with small green fresh herbs on top. The bowl is white and sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 lb chicken breast (substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option)
2 tbsp olive or sesame oil

For the Sauce:

2 cloves garlic, minced (use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable)
1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
1/3 cup pineapple juice (use juice from canned pineapple for convenience)
2 tbsp honey or brown sugar (maple syrup as a substitute)
1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar (white vinegar in a pinch)
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water

For the Main Dish:

1.5 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or drained canned)
1/2 red bell pepper, diced (substitute with other bell peppers or snap peas)
1/4 cup green onions, chopped (chives as substitute)

Optional Toppings:

Sesame seeds
Crushed red pepper for an extra kick

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive or sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chicken breast pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 2: In the same pan, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, and vinegar. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Step 3: Stir in the cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy.
Step 4: Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add pineapple chunks and diced red bell pepper. Stir to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
Step 5: Gently fold in the cooked rice until warmed through and well combined, about 2 minutes.
Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy the tropical flavors!

Tips & Variations

Use chicken thighs instead of breast for a juicier, more flavorful dish.
Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce if you like a spicy kick.
Swap rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Include extra vegetables like broccoli or shredded carrots for more color and nutrients.
Try mango or peaches instead of pineapple for a seasonal twist.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil instead of green onions for a herby freshness.
Mix cashews or slivered almonds in for a delightful crunch.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for 2-3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. To prevent rice from clumping, allow cooked rice to cool before mixing in.

How to Serve

A dish with three visible layers in a white bowl placed on a white marbled surface: the bottom layer is long-grain brown rice with a soft texture and light beige color; the middle layer consists of glazed chicken cubes that have a shiny, caramelized brown color with some charred spots adding texture; the top layer features bright golden pineapple chunks that appear juicy and glossy, garnished lightly with small pieces of fresh green herbs scattered evenly over the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

Chicken breast is lean and commonly used, but chicken thighs are a great substitute if you prefer juicier and more flavorful meat. Just be sure to cook the thighs thoroughly for safety and tenderness.

How do I store leftovers of Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet or microwave and add a splash of water to help restore moisture and flavor.

Can I freeze Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

What should I do if the sauce is too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, gradually stir in a few tablespoons of water or additional pineapple juice until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?

For soy allergies, substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos or a homemade alternative. Choose brown rice for a healthier option and always check ingredient suitability for specific dietary needs.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Extra vegetables like snap peas, shredded carrots, or broccoli can be added for more nutrition and color. Toss them in when combining the chicken and sauce.

Zoe Lane