Craving something sweet, savory, and satisfying? This Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is your next go-to weeknight dinner! Made with juicy chicken, fresh or canned pineapple, and tender rice all in one skillet—this tropical dish is packed with flavor and ready in under 40 minutes.
Pineapple Chicken and Rice: A Sweet and Savory Tropical Delight
If you’re tired of boring weekday meals, this Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish will instantly refresh your dinner table. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings together the natural sweetness of pineapple with the umami of soy sauce, juicy chicken pieces, and fluffy rice. This meal is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with vibrant colors and flavors that scream summer.
Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for something comforting yet exotic, this dish ticks all the boxes. It’s kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 500g (about 1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or any vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil)
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce or hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon pineapple juice (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped spring onions and sesame seeds for garnish
For the Rice:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old for best texture)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 egg, beaten (optional for extra richness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and black pepper. Toss well and let it sit for 15–20 minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. This step enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and sear until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed, and sauté the chopped onions and garlic until fragrant. Add the bell peppers and cook for another 3–4 minutes until they’re slightly softened but still vibrant.
Step 4: Add the Pineapple
Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the natural sugars to caramelize slightly. This step really brings out the tropical notes in the dish.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Pour in the soy sauce, sweet chili or hoisin sauce, and a splash of pineapple juice (if using). Mix everything well. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss to coat evenly.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
Mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry, then pour it into the pan. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, coating all the ingredients beautifully. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Stir-Fry the Rice (Optional but Recommended)
Push the chicken and veggies to one side of the pan. On the other side, add a little oil and pour in the beaten egg. Scramble it quickly. Then, add the cooked rice and soy sauce. Toss everything together for a well-combined fried rice finish.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped spring onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve hot straight from the pan.
Tips & Variations
- Use leftover rice: Day-old rice gives the best texture when stir-fried.
- Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or Sriracha if you like heat.
- Go gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Vegetarian version: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
What to Serve With Pineapple Chicken and Rice
This dish is already a complete meal, but you can pair it with:
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- A simple cucumber salad
- Fresh mango slices for a fruity side
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a pan with a splash of water or in the microwave.
- Meal Prep Tip: Divide into containers and store for quick grab-and-go lunches.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is a comforting, flavorful twist on a classic stir-fry. It's a great way to bring bright, tropical flavors to your weeknight dinners without a ton of effort. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cook, this dish is easy to master and sure to please the whole family.