Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in the kitchen, surrounded by the unmistakable scent of sizzling garlic and ginger, I couldn’t help but feel a rush of excitement for the simple joys of cooking. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on Pineapple Chicken Rice, a delightful one-pan meal that not only brings the tropics to your table but is also a lifesaver for busy weeknights. This versatile dish is full of vibrant flavors and can be customized to suit any preference, making it perfect for the whole family. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply whip up a comforting dinner, this recipe is quick, nourishing, and sure to become a staple in your home. Ready to transform your dinner routine with a taste of paradise? Let’s dive into the details! Why Is Pineapple Chicken Rice a Must-Try? Flavor Explosion: Your palate is in for a treat! The combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates a delicious harmony that leaves everyone craving more. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan recipe minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor, letting you savor every moment with family. Customizable: Got picky eaters? No problem! Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu or toss in your favorite veggies—it’s a dish that adapts to your tastes. Nutritional Boost: Packed with protein and vitamins, this dish can even be made low-carb by replacing rice with cauliflower rice. Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your guests with a tropical explosion of colors and flavors. Just like my Poblano Chicken Tacos or Hot Honey Chicken, this recipe is sure to be a hit! Pineapple Chicken Rice Ingredients For the Chicken Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Choosing thighs ensures juiciness, but breasts work just as well if you prefer. For the Rice White Rice or Brown Rice – White rice is quicker to cook, while brown rice offers added nutrition; just adjust cooking times accordingly. For the Pineapple Fresh or Canned Pineapple – Fresh adds brightness, but canned (drained) is a convenient alternative; consider adding some juice for extra flavor! For the Vegetables Colorful Veggies (e.g., Bell Peppers, Carrots) – Customize based on your favorite seasonal vegetables; they add nutrition and vibrancy. For the Sauce Soy Sauce – Brings umami richness; opt for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake. For the Aromatics Garlic and Ginger – Fresh ingredients provide the best flavor; ground garlic or ginger can be used if you’re in a pinch. For Garnish Green Onions or Chives – Add a fresh note on top; if you don’t have green onions, chives are a lovely substitute. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pineapple Chicken Rice Step 1: Sauté Aromatics In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant. Your kitchen will soon fill with a warm aroma, signaling that it’s time to bring the chicken into the mix. Step 2: Brown the Chicken Add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts to the skillet, cooking for approximately 5–7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is browned on all sides and no longer pink in the center. At this point, the chicken will be golden and succulent, enhancing the flavor of your Pineapple Chicken Rice. Step 3: Incorporate Rice and Vegetables Once the chicken is browned, stir in 1 cup of rinsed white rice (or brown rice if you prefer) along with your choice of colorful diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Cook everything together for about 2 minutes, letting the rice absorb the delicious chicken juices and aromatics before adding the next ingredients. Step 4: Add Pineapple and Sauce Pour in 1 cup of drained pineapple chunks and ¼ cup of low-sodium soy sauce. Gently mix everything together until well combined, letting the vibrant colors pop in the skillet. The sweetness of the pineapple will complement the savory elements beautifully—create the tropical essence you’re aiming for in this Pineapple Chicken Rice. Step 5: Pour in Broth and Simmer Carefully add 1½ cups of chicken broth (or water) to the skillet, ensuring the rice is fully covered. Increase the heat to high, bringing it to a gentle boil for about 2 minutes. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is fluffy and all the liquid has been absorbed. Step 6: Fluff and Serve After cooking, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Finally, fluff the Pineapple Chicken Rice with a fork, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot. Your tropical dish is now ready to bring joy to your dining table! How to Store and Freeze Pineapple Chicken Rice Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps your Pineapple Chicken Rice fresh and ready for quick reheating! Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to label each container to keep track of your delicious meals. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture. Airtight Tips: Always ensure your containers are sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn and maintain the dish’s flavorful integrity. Expert Tips for Pineapple Chicken Rice Perfect Timing: Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to retain tenderness and avoid dryness. Rice Selection: Use rinsed rice to remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier rice that soaks up the flavors of the Pineapple Chicken Rice beautifully. Flavor Fusion: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes in soy sauce and spices before cooking to enhance the flavor profile of your dish. Veggie Variety: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your pantry inventory; think bell peppers, peas, or even snap peas for a colorful twist! Moisture Maintenance: Cover your skillet with a tight-fitting lid while simmering to lock in moisture and flavors, ensuring a perfectly cooked dish every time. Pineapple Chicken Rice Variations & Substitutions Feel free to explore your culinary creativity with these fun twists that will elevate your Pineapple Chicken Rice experience! Shrimp Swap: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a light and seafood twist. Just sauté briefly to prevent overcooking. Tofu Twist: For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with cubed tofu. Marinate the tofu for extra flavor before sautéing. Vegetable Medley: Add a colorful assortment of vegetables like snap peas, baby corn, or spinach. Experiment with seasonal veggies for freshness! Curry Kick: Sprinkle in curry powder or garam masala for a fragrant, spicy flair. This variation will take your dish on an exciting worldwide adventure! Teriyaki Flavor Boost: Swap soy sauce for teriyaki sauce to create a sweeter taste profile. Perfect for those who love a hint of sweetness with their savory meals. Nutrient-packed Cauliflower Rice: Replace traditional rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that’s just as delicious and hearty. A great method to sneak in more veggies! Citrus Zest: Add a splash of freshly squeezed lime or orange juice to the finished dish for a zesty brightness. It will complement the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully. Spicy Heat: Mix in red pepper flakes or a chopped chili for an energetic kick. Adjust according to your heat preference—your taste buds will thank you! These variations invite you to make this recipe your own. Whether you lean towards a comforting version like my Chicken Dumplings Cozy or a spicier dish like my Hot Honey Chicken, enjoy this culinary journey! Make Ahead Options Preparing Pineapple Chicken Rice ahead of time is a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can chop your vegetables and store them in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance, keeping them fresh and ready to go. Additionally, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce and spices 24 hours before cooking to enhance the flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, simply sauté the garlic and ginger, add in your marinated chicken, and follow the remaining steps! This strategy ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, giving you a satisfying meal with minimal effort on hectic weeknights. What to Serve with Pineapple Chicken Rice Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that complement this tropical dish beautifully, inviting your senses to a culinary adventure. Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens and colorful veggies provide a refreshing contrast, adding crunch and brightness to each bite. Coconut Rice: Embrace the tropical theme by serving this dish with coconut-infused rice, further enhancing the delightful fruity flavors. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of your favorite vegetables lightly sautéed ensures vibrant colors and adds nutritional value to your plate. Sweet and Sour Sauce: A drizzle of sweet and sour sauce on the side offers an extra burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken and pineapple. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread adds a comforting touch to the meal, ideal for sopping up any delicious juices left on your plate. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: For dessert, treat yourself to this classic, which echoes the sweet flavors of your main dish, making it a memorable meal. Iced Green Tea: Serve chilled for a refreshing beverage that balances the sweetness of the dish with its cool, crisp taste. Hibiscus Iced Tea: Its fruity notes and slight tartness provide a delightful counterpoint to the savory and sweet elements of the Pineapple Chicken Rice. Chili Sauce: For those who enjoy a kick, offer a spicy chili sauce on the side—it’ll add a whole new layer of flavor to your dining experience. Pineapple Chicken Rice Recipe FAQs What type of pineapple should I use? I recommend using fresh pineapple for the best flavor and texture, but canned pineapple works just fine if you’re short on time—just make sure to drain it well. If you prefer an enhanced pineapple flavor, consider using some of the juice from canned pineapple in your cooking liquid! How should I store leftover Pineapple Chicken Rice? Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep your Pineapple Chicken Rice fresh and delicious, perfect for quick meals during the week. Just be sure to let it cool before sealing to maintain that delightful texture! Can I freeze Pineapple Chicken Rice? Yes, you can! To freeze, portion the Pineapple Chicken Rice into freezer-safe containers, ensuring they are labeled with the date, and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to restore the moisture. What if my chicken is overcooked? Not to worry! If your chicken turns out a bit dry, try serving it with a drizzle of soy sauce or a splash of broth to add moisture. Next time, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and consider marinating it before cooking for extra flavor and tenderness! What dietary considerations should I keep in mind? This dish is high in protein and can be adjusted to meet various dietary needs. For those watching their carb intake, feel free to substitute traditional rice with cauliflower rice. Additionally, always check for allergies if you’re serving to others—soy sauce can contain gluten, so opt for a gluten-free variety if needed. Can I customize the vegetables in this recipe? Very much so! One of the great things about Pineapple Chicken Rice is its flexibility. Mix and match your favorite vegetables like snap peas, zucchini, or spinach to suit your taste or what’s currently in season. It’s all about making it your own! Pineapple Chicken Rice: Your Perfect Weeknight Delight Pineapple Chicken Rice is a delightful one-pan meal that brings the tropics to your table, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: Asian, TropicalCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts Thighs ensure juiciness.For the Rice1 cup White Rice or Brown Rice Adjust cooking times accordingly.For the Pineapple1 cup Fresh or Canned Pineapple Fresh adds brightness.For the Vegetables1 cup Colorful Veggies (e.g., Bell Peppers, Carrots) Customize based on your favorites.For the Sauce1/4 cup Soy Sauce Opt for low-sodium if desired.For the Aromatics2 cloves Garlic Minced.1 teaspoon Freshly Grated GingerFor Garnish1/4 cup Green Onions or Chives Equipment Large skillet or wok Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.Add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts to the skillet, cooking for approximately 5–7 minutes until browned.Stir in 1 cup of rinsed white rice along with your choice of colorful diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Cook for about 2 minutes.Pour in 1 cup of drained pineapple chunks and 1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce. Gently mix everything together.Carefully add 1½ cups of chicken broth to the skillet, increase heat to high, and let boil for about 2 minutes. Then reduce to low, cover, and let simmer for 20–25 minutes.After cooking, let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg NotesPerfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Customize to your preference with different proteins or vegetables. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
