Pineapple Chicken and Rice

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Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and satisfying. Tender chunks of chicken are glazed in a sticky, flavorful sauce made with pineapple, soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness. The juicy pineapple adds brightness and contrast, while the rice soaks up every drop of that delicious sauce.

This dish is inspired by Asian-style comfort food but simplified for everyday home cooking. It’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and beginner-friendly, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Best of all, it comes together quickly using simple pantry ingredients.

Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family, or meal-prepping for the week, this Pineapple Chicken and Rice will become a repeat favorite.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil

For the Sauce

  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)

  • ½ cup pineapple juice

  • ⅓ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional but recommended)

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

For the Rice

  • 2 cups cooked jasmine or long-grain rice

  • 1 tablespoon butter or oil (optional, for richness)

Garnish (Optional but Delicious)

  • Chopped green onions

  • Sesame seeds

  • Extra pineapple chunks

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks. Try to keep the pieces uniform so they cook evenly.

Season lightly with salt and black pepper. Remember, soy sauce will add salt later, so don’t overdo it.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the oil and let it heat until shimmering.

Add the chicken in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.

Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 3–4 minutes so it develops a golden-brown crust. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until fully cooked and slightly caramelized.

Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Pineapple Sauce

In the same pan (don’t clean it—those browned bits are flavor!), lower the heat to medium.

Add garlic and ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in:

  • Pineapple juice

  • Soy sauce

  • Brown sugar (or honey)

Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes. The sauce will begin to smell sweet and savory.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Stir the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) and slowly pour it into the sauce while stirring.

Let the sauce simmer gently for 1–2 minutes until thickened and glossy.

Add pineapple chunks and stir gently.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Toss to coat every piece in the sauce.

Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes so the flavors fully blend.

Step 6: Prepare the Rice

If your rice isn’t already cooked, prepare it according to package instructions.

For extra flavor, stir in a small amount of butter or oil and fluff with a fork.

Step 7: Serve

Spoon rice into bowls or plates.

Top generously with pineapple chicken and sauce.

Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Serve hot and enjoy every bite 😋🍍🍚

💡 Helpful Tips for Best Results

  • Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts, but both work well

  • Fresh pineapple adds brightness; canned pineapple adds sweetness

  • Low-sodium soy sauce prevents the dish from being too salty

  • Don’t rush the sear—browning = flavor

  • Taste and adjust: add more sugar for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness

🔁 Easy Variations

Spicy Pineapple Chicken

Add chili flakes, sriracha, or chili garlic sauce to the sauce.

Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

Stir leftover rice directly into the pan with the chicken and sauce.

Vegetable Add-Ins

Bell peppers, onions, snap peas, or broccoli work beautifully.

Make It Healthier

Serve over brown rice or cauliflower rice.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

  • Reheat gently on the stove or microwave

  • Add a splash of water or pineapple juice if sauce thickens too much

🍽 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy

  • One-pan friendly

  • Sweet & savory balance

  • Kid-approved

  • Great for leftovers

  • Looks amazing, tastes even better

This is the kind of recipe that makes people ask for seconds—and the recipe!

🤔 Related Questions to Keep You Cooking

  • Do you prefer sweet-and-savory dishes or spicy ones?

  • Would you try this with shrimp or tofu instead of chicken?

  • Do you like your pineapple lightly caramelized or very juicy?

  • Would you enjoy this more with fried rice or plain rice?

  • Should I share more quick dinner recipes like this?

  • Would you like slow cooker or air fryer versions?

❤️ Final Words

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal—it’s comfort, flavor, and happiness in a bowl. 🍍🍚 Every time you cook something you love, you’re creating moments that matter.

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