Pineapple Chicken Rice was something I enjoyed on those days when I wanted something sweet and savory with a slightly tropical flavor. One of the super-easy cooking recipes, which feels very special but requires very little effort. Juicy pineapple, succulent chicken, and fluffy rice come together in a way that makes every bite addictive.

What is Pineapple Chicken Rice All About?

Pineapple Chicken Rice is a quick stir-fried dish made by piling together chicken pieces, either fresh or canned, along with rice and tossing all in a sweet and sour sauce. It tastes bright and tangy, with chicken filling a hearty experience. An ideal weeknight dinner, it’s very juicy and at the same time easy on the taste buds, and should only remind you of vacation-memory-type food.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp olive oil

For the sauce:

½ cup pineapple juice
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, minced

For the stir-fry:

2 cups cooked white rice (day-old works best)
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 green onions, sliced
1 tbsp sesame oil

Instructions

So, you train on the data up to October 2023.
For a bowl, you can toss chicken with soy sauce and cornstarch. Allow to marinate for 10 minutes.
Heat olive oil in a frying pan large enough to hold the whole chicken. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Then combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger in the same frying pan, and bring to a simmer for two to three minutes.
Add your bell pepper, pineapple chunks, and cooked chicken. Stir to coat.
Rice and sesame oil are added. Stir-fry it all together till hot through and through.
Top with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheat in a pan with a dash of water or pineapple juice.
Do not freeze the pineapple as it will change its texture.

Serving Suggestions

Make it even better and straighter from the pineapple bowl for fun.
Great with a heaping plate of steamed veggies or paired with the classic Asian-style cucumber salad.
Toasted sesame seeds add crunch.

Pro Tips & Variations

Swap in some shrimp or tofu to make it interesting.
Add cashews for extra crunch and protein.
Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
To spice it up, add chili flakes or sriracha.

FAQs

Canned pineapple is okay, right?

Definitely! Just make sure to drain it well so that the dish won’t turn watery.

Can we make this recipe in advance?

It’s best served fresh, but you can always prepare the sauce and chop the ingredients ahead of time.

Is Pineapple Chicken Rice gluten-free?

If you use either gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, you’ll be just fine.

Can I make it without rice?

Of course—try quinoa or noodles or simply increase your veggie.

Try It!

Pineapple Chicken Rice is one of those recipes that are just always good. It comes together quickly and is colorful and packed with flavors that feel like a treat. Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s one of those things I keep coming back to. Give it a shot this week; you will love it!