Pineapple Chicken & Rice (Sweet, Savory & One-Pan Comfort)

Introduction

Pineapple Chicken & Rice is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that perfectly balances sweet tropical pineapple with savory chicken, aromatic vegetables, and fluffy rice. This comforting yet refreshing meal is ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, and meal prep, offering bold flavor with simple ingredients and straightforward cooking.

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What Is Pineapple Chicken & Rice?

Pineapple Chicken & Rice is a complete one-pan or one-pot meal made with bite-sized chicken pieces cooked in a lightly sweet and savory sauce, combined with rice that absorbs all the flavors as it cooks. The dish draws inspiration from Asian and tropical cuisines, often featuring soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and pineapple for contrast and depth.

The result is a satisfying, well-balanced meal that feels both comforting and fresh.

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Why This Dish Is So Popular

• Sweet and savory flavor balance
• One-pan or one-pot convenience
• Family-friendly and customizable
• Affordable ingredients
• Excellent for leftovers and meal prep

It’s a dependable recipe that appeals to both adults and kids.

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Key Ingredients and Their Purpose

Chicken

Boneless chicken breast or thighs provide lean protein and soak up the sauce.

Pineapple

Adds sweetness, acidity, and tropical flavor that brightens the dish.

Rice

Serves as the hearty base, absorbing the sauce during cooking.

Aromatics

Garlic, onion, and ginger add depth and fragrance.

Sauce Components

Soy sauce, broth, and optional honey or brown sugar create balance.

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Choosing the Best Pineapple

• Fresh pineapple: Bright flavor and firmer texture
• Canned pineapple: Convenient and consistent

If using canned pineapple, choose pineapple chunks in juice, not syrup, and reserve the juice for the sauce.

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Best Rice for Pineapple Chicken & Rice

• Long-grain white rice: Light and fluffy
• Jasmine rice: Aromatic and slightly sticky
• Brown rice: Nutty flavor but requires longer cooking

Avoid instant rice, which can become mushy.

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Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet with lid or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

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Pineapple Chicken & Rice Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
• 1½ cups uncooked long-grain rice
• 1¾ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• ½ cup pineapple juice
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1–2 tbsp honey or brown sugar (to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt to taste
• Optional garnish: green onions, sesame seeds

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Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.

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Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pan, add onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook briefly.

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Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in rice, broth, pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well.

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Step 4: Simmer

Return chicken to the pan. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, until rice is tender.

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Step 5: Add Pineapple

Stir in pineapple chunks during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

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Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Fluff rice and garnish before serving.

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Tips for Perfect Pineapple Chicken & Rice

• Brown chicken first for better flavor
• Add pineapple near the end to prevent mushiness
• Taste sauce before simmering and adjust sweetness
• Let rice rest before serving

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding pineapple too early
• Using instant rice
• Cooking uncovered
• Over-sweetening the sauce

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Variations and Customizations

Hawaiian-Style

Add ham or bacon and use jasmine rice.

Spicy Pineapple Chicken

Add chili flakes or sriracha.

Teriyaki Version

Replace soy sauce and honey with teriyaki sauce.

Vegetable-Loaded Option

Add peas, carrots, or snap peas.

Slow Cooker Version

Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours, adding rice halfway through.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with steamed broccoli
• Pair with cucumber salad
• Add a squeeze of lime for brightness

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Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze cooled portions for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 32 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 58 g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen pineapple?

Yes, thaw and drain it first.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats very well.

How do I prevent soggy rice?

Measure liquid carefully and avoid lifting the lid while cooking.

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Why Pineapple Chicken & Rice Always Works

This dish succeeds by combining savory chicken, aromatic rice, and sweet pineapple into a single, balanced meal that’s both comforting and refreshing.

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Final Thoughts

Pineapple Chicken & Rice is a reliable, flavorful recipe that brings together sweet and savory elements in one easy, satisfying dish. With simple preparation, flexible ingredients, and excellent leftovers, it’s a meal you’ll return to again and again.

Once you make it, it’s sure to become a favorite in your weeknight dinner rotation.

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