Go Back
Delicious Pineapple Chicken served with rice, showcasing sweet and savory flavors.

Pineapple Chicken and Rice

A delightful dish that combines sweet pineapple and savory chicken, perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Chicken Breast Substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
  • 2 tbsp Olive or Sesame Oil Used for sautéing.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced; use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
  • 1/2 cup Soy Sauce Low sodium is a healthier alternative.
  • 1/3 cup Pineapple Juice Use juice from canned pineapple for convenience.
  • 2 tbsp Honey or Brown Sugar Consider using maple syrup as a substitute.
  • 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar Can use white vinegar in a pinch.
  • 1 tsp Cornstarch Mix with 1 tbsp of water to avoid lumps.
  • 1 tbsp Water
  • 1.5 cups Cooked Rice Use white, brown, or jasmine rice based on preference.
  • 1 cup Pineapple Chunks Opt for fresh or drained canned chunks.
  • 1/2 whole Red Bell Pepper Diced; substitute with other bell peppers or snap peas.
  • 1/4 cup Green Onions Chopped; chives make a great substitute.
  • Sesame seeds For serving; customize based on taste preferences.
  • Crushed red pepper Optional for extra spice.

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Heat the olive or sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  2. Add the chicken breast pieces to the skillet. Cook until they turn golden brown and are cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water.
  4. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken and let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  5. Add the cooked rice, pineapple chunks, and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine everything until heated through.
  6. Finish by sprinkling with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

Enhance flavor: Add a splash of lime juice for an extra zesty kick. Customize by experimenting with different veggies like snap peas or carrots for variety. Serve with extra pineapple chunks on the side for an added tropical touch.