Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Here’s a delicious Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe that’s sweet, savory, and packed with tropical flavor. It’s easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight meal!

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Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

For the Sauce:

• 1 ½ cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained if using canned)
• ½ cup pineapple juice
• ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

For the Rice:

• 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
• ½ cup green onions, chopped
• ½ cup bell peppers, diced (red or green)
• ¼ cup toasted cashews or almonds (optional, for crunch)
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
3. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

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Step 2: Make the Pineapple Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the pineapple chunks and cook for 2 minutes until slightly caramelized.
2. Pour in the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and vinegar. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
3. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir continuously until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).

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Step 3: Combine Everything

1. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
2. Add the bell peppers and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly tender.

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Step 4: Serve

1. Serve the pineapple chicken over warm cooked rice.
2. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and toasted cashews or almonds (if using).
3. Enjoy!

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Recipe Tips & Variations

• Protein Swap: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
• Extra Veggies: Add snap peas, carrots, or broccoli for more color and crunch.
• Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or chili paste for heat.

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