Name: Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Ingredients: Main Ingredients:; 2 boneless (skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces); 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice; 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained); 1 red bell pepper (chopped); 1 green bell pepper (chopped); ½ cup yellow onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated); For the Sauce:; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 ½ cups chicken broth; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); For Garnishing:; 2 tablespoons sliced green onions; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; Lime wedges for serving

When it comes to easy, delicious, and crowd-pleasing meals, few dishes can compete with Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice. This dish perfectly balances tropical sweetness with the rich, umami depth of chicken, soy sauce, and aromatic spices, all brought together in one comforting meal.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining, this pineapple chicken and rice recipe will become a go-to favorite. Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know to master this dish, including variations, cooking tips, and serving suggestions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Simplicity – Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
Balanced Flavors – The sweet pineapple complements the savory chicken beautifully.
Versatile & Customizable – Works with different proteins, rice varieties, and veggies.
Family-Friendly – A hit with both kids and adults.
Meal Prep Friendly – Stores well and makes great leftovers.

Ingredients for Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish:

Main Ingredients

Chicken – 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
Rice – 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice (or basmati rice for a fluffier texture)
Pineapple – 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (canned pineapple works too)
Bell Peppers – 1 red and 1 green bell pepper, chopped
Onion – ½ cup chopped yellow onion
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger

For the Sauce

Soy Sauce – ¼ cup (low-sodium preferred)
Honey – 2 tablespoons
Rice Vinegar – 1 tablespoon
Sesame Oil – 1 teaspoon
Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon (to thicken the sauce)
Chicken Broth – 1 ½ cups (or water for a lighter version)
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – ½ teaspoon (optional, for heat)

For Garnishing

Green Onions – Sliced for a fresh finishing touch
Sesame Seeds – Adds a nutty crunch
Lime Wedges – For an extra burst of citrus

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

Marinating infuses the chicken with deep flavor and tenderness.

In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger, and 1 minced garlic clove.
Toss in the chicken pieces and coat well.
Let it sit for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for a deeper infusion).

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed.
Sauté the onions, bell peppers, garlic, and pineapple chunks for 3–4 minutes until softened.

4. Make the Sweet and Savory Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch.
Pour the sauce into the pan with the vegetables and stir well.

5. Cook the Rice

Add uncooked rice to the pan, stirring to coat it in the sauce.
Pour in 1 ½ cups of broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Cover and let cook on low heat for 15 minutes, until the rice absorbs the liquid.

6. Combine Everything

Add the chicken back into the pan and stir well.
Let it cook for another 5 minutes until the chicken is heated through and everything is well combined.

7. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with green onions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Pineapple for the Best Flavor

Fresh pineapple adds a naturally sweet and tangy taste. If using canned, drain it well to prevent excess liquid.

2. Choose the Right Rice

Jasmine rice works best as it absorbs flavors well while maintaining a slightly chewy texture.

3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Cooking in batches ensures that the chicken gets a nice sear and doesn’t steam.

4. Adjust Sweetness and Spice

Add extra honey for a sweeter taste.
For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add Sriracha.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Make It Vegetarian

Swap the chicken for tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas.

2. Use a Different Protein

Shrimp – Cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with pineapple.
Beef – Thinly sliced steak works great.
Pork – Try pork tenderloin for a juicy alternative.

3. Swap the Rice

Brown Rice – Adds fiber but requires a longer cooking time.
Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative.
Quinoa – A protein-packed substitute.

What to Serve with Pineapple Chicken and Rice

While this dish is a complete meal on its own, here are some delicious side options:

Steamed Edamame – A protein-packed appetizer.
Crispy Spring Rolls – A crunchy contrast.
Coconut Shrimp – A tropical-inspired side dish.
Miso Soup – A warm and comforting starter.

Storing and Reheating

How to Store

Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat

Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to prevent dryness.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe is the perfect blend of tropical flavors and hearty comfort food. With its easy one-pan method, vibrant colors, and irresistible taste, it’s a dish that will make its way into your regular meal rotation.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turned out! Share your creations in the comments below and don’t forget to tag me on social media if you make it. Happy cooking!