Pineapple Chicken and Rice

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Pineapple Chicken and Rice: Sweet, Savory & Irresistible

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and family-friendly meal, this Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the perfect choice! Juicy chicken is stir-fried with fresh pineapple in a sweet and savory sauce, then served over fluffy rice for a delicious tropical-inspired dinner.

This dish is easy to make in under 30 minutes and is packed with balanced flavors of garlic, soy sauce, honey, and ginger—a combination that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Perfectly Balanced Flavors – The sweet pineapple, savory soy sauce, and garlic-ginger sauce create a delicious harmony.

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy nights.

✔ Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with lean protein and vitamins from pineapple.

✔ Great for Meal Prep – Tastes amazing the next day!

✔ Customizable – Can be made spicy, gluten-free, or low-carb.

How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1 ½ lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
  • 2 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)

For the Sauce:

  • ¼ cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
  • 3 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (to thicken sauce)

For Serving:

  • 3 cups cooked white rice or brown rice
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

  1. If not already prepared, cook white or brown rice according to package instructions.
  2. Keep warm while preparing the chicken.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
    • Soy sauce
    • Honey
    • Rice vinegar
    • Ginger
    • Garlic
    • Red pepper flakes (if using)
  2. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Set both aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
  3. Add pineapple chunks and cook for 1 more minute to caramelize slightly.

Step 4: Add the Sauce & Thicken

  1. Pour the sauce over the chicken and pineapple.
  2. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and let simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
  3. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

  1. Divide rice into bowls and top with the pineapple chicken mixture.
  2. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy this sweet, savory, and satisfying meal!

Recipe Variations & Add-Ins

🔹 Spicy Pineapple Chicken: Add sriracha or extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

🔹 Vegetable Add-In: Stir in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more nutrition.

🔹 Hawaiian BBQ Twist: Add 1 tbsp BBQ sauce to the glaze for a smoky depth.

🔹 Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of rice.

Best Sides to Serve with Pineapple Chicken

✔ Steamed Broccoli or Bok Choy – Adds freshness and crunch.

✔ Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls – A perfect crispy side.

✔ Cucumber Salad – Refreshing and light to balance the flavors.

✔ Garlic Butter Noodles – A delicious carb-loaded option.

✔ Mango Salsa – Enhances the tropical flavors even more!

Storage & Reheating Tips

✔ Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

✔ Freeze for Later: Freeze the chicken mixture (without rice) for up to 2 months.

✔ Reheat Properly: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second bursts, adding a splash of water if needed.

Why Everyone Loves This Pineapple Chicken Recipe

✨ Sweet, Savory & Tangy – The perfect balance of flavors.

✨ Quick & Easy – One pan, 25 minutes, and done!

✨ Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with protein, vitamins, and fresh ingredients.

✨ Perfect for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!

Final Thoughts

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice is flavorful, easy, and packed with tropical goodness! Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner, meal prep, or a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

So grab your pineapple, chicken, and soy sauce, and make this sweet and savory masterpiece today!

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