Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Pineapple chicken and rice quickly became one of my favorite comfort meals during a busy week when I needed something quick satisfying and full of flavor and I had a can of pineapple sitting in the pantry calling out to be used. I tossed it into a skillet with some diced chicken bell peppers and a sweet-savory sauce and poured it all over a bed of fluffy rice and from that first bite it felt like a warm tropical hug in a bowl.

Now I find myself reaching for this recipe whenever I want something that’s easy but still a little exciting and my family absolutely loves the burst of pineapple paired with the savory chicken and saucy goodness. It’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day so it’s perfect for meal prep or sharing with friends on a casual night in.

Ingredients :

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Chicken breast or thighs – A lean source of protein that stays tender and juicy in the sauce.
• Pineapple chunks – Add natural sweetness and tropical flair to balance the savory sauce.
• Red bell pepper – Brings vibrant color and a light crunch to the dish.
• Garlic – Enhances the depth of flavor with a subtle kick.
• Soy sauce – Creates a salty umami-rich base for the sauce.
• Brown sugar – Adds sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize beautifully.
• Rice vinegar – Provides brightness and a slight tang.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce to coat every bite perfectly.
• Cooked rice – The cozy foundation that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
• Green onions – Optional garnish for a fresh pop of color and mild bite.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or wok – Perfect for sautéing the chicken and veggies evenly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce and preventing sticking.
• Knife and cutting board – To prep the chicken pineapple and vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To keep sauce ingredients in balance.
• Small bowl – For mixing the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
• Pot or rice cooker – To prepare your base of fluffy white or brown rice.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

I start by cutting my chicken into bite-sized pieces and sautéing it in a lightly oiled skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 2: Add the Veggies

Once the chicken is done I add the diced red bell pepper and minced garlic and stir for another 2–3 minutes until the pepper is just starting to soften.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl I whisk together soy sauce brown sugar rice vinegar and a bit of pineapple juice from the can then I pour the mixture into the skillet and stir it through the chicken and veggies.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

To thicken the sauce I make a cornstarch slurry with a tablespoon of cornstarch and two tablespoons of water then I pour it into the skillet and stir until the sauce gets glossy and thick.

Step 5: Stir in the Pineapple

I gently stir in the pineapple chunks and let them warm through for 1–2 minutes without breaking them down too much.

Step 6: Serve Over Rice

I spoon the hot pineapple chicken mixture over bowls of fluffy cooked rice and top with sliced green onions for a fresh finish.

Tips

I like using fresh pineapple when I have it but canned pineapple in juice works beautifully and is super convenient.

For extra heat I add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squirt of sriracha to the sauce.

You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu to make a different version of this dish.

Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Ways to Serve

Serve it with steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant and satisfying meal.

I like pairing it with a side of roasted broccoli or snap peas to round out the plate.

Make a rice bowl bar with toppings like chopped cilantro sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for fun customization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pineapple in Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

Yes canned pineapple in juice (not syrup) works great and adds just the right sweetness.

Is Pineapple Chicken and Rice good for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats easily in the microwave or skillet.

Can I make Pineapple Chicken and Rice gluten-free?

Yes just swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe a try and fall in love with how simple satisfying and full of flavor it is! It’s become one of my go-to meals for busy nights and always leaves me smiling with a happy full belly.

Happy Cooking!

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