Recipe Description
Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a vibrant, restaurant-quality dish that blends sweet tropical pineapple, tender juicy chicken, and fluffy steamed rice into one irresistible bowl. Popular in Hawaiian-inspired and Asian-fusion cuisine, this easy dinner recipe delivers a perfect balance of savory soy sauce, garlic, and ginger with the natural sweetness of fresh pineapple chunks.
This dish is ideal for busy weeknights, healthy meal prep, or even family gatherings. It’s packed with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and energizing carbohydrates—making it a balanced meal option. Whether you’re looking for a quick 30-minute dinner recipe or a budget-friendly meal plan idea, pineapple chicken and rice is a top choice.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (cubed)
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2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (or canned in juice)
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1 red bell pepper (chopped)
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1 green bell pepper (chopped)
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3 cloves garlic (minced)
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1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
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⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
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2 tablespoons honey
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¼ cup pineapple juice
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving:
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3 cups cooked jasmine rice or basmati rice
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Sliced green onions
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Sesame seeds
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
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Cook the Rice:
Prepare jasmine rice according to package instructions. Fluff and set aside. -
Sauté the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked. -
Add Aromatics & Veggies:
Stir in garlic, ginger, and bell peppers. Cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender. -
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, honey, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes. -
Combine Everything:
Add pineapple chunks and pour sauce into the skillet. Simmer 3–5 minutes until sauce thickens. -
Serve:
Spoon over warm rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
🔥 Nutrition & Health Benefits
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High-protein dinner recipe (supports muscle growth)
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Pineapple contains vitamin C and digestive enzymes
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Customizable for gluten-free or low-calorie meal plans
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Great for healthy meal prep containers
Approximate calories per serving: 450–500 kcal
Protein: 35g | Carbs: 55g | Fat: 10–12g
💡 Pro Cooking Tips
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Use fresh pineapple for a vibrant tropical flavor.
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Swap chicken breast for chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
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Add broccoli or snap peas for extra nutrients.
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Make it spicy with sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
❓ Related Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make pineapple chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. It reheats well, making it ideal for weekly meal prep.
2. Is pineapple chicken healthy?
Absolutely. It’s rich in lean protein and vitamins. For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice.
3. Can I freeze pineapple chicken?
Yes. Freeze in meal-size portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. What rice works best?
Jasmine rice is most popular, but brown rice or coconut rice also pair beautifully.
5. How do I make it restaurant-style?
Use a cast iron skillet or wok and cook over medium-high heat for slightly caramelized edges.
🌴 Final Thoughts
This easy pineapple chicken and rice recipe is a flavorful, family-friendly meal that tastes like a tropical vacation in a bowl. It’s budget-friendly, nutritious, and customizable—perfect for anyone searching for quick dinner ideas, healthy chicken recipes, or Hawaiian-inspired comfort food.
