Name: Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained); 1 cup long-grain rice or jasmine rice; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil; 1 garlic clove, minced; ½ onion, diced; 1½ cups chicken broth or water; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional garnish: sliced green onions or sesame seeds

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Sweet, savory, and comforting, this Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe brings together juicy chunks of chicken, tangy pineapple, and tender rice for a simple and satisfying meal. It’s quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and full of flavor in every bite.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe balances sweetness and savoriness so effortlessly. The juicy pineapple adds a fresh burst that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and seasoned rice. It’s a one-pan meal that feels tropical, comforting, and wholesome all at once. I can easily adjust it to match my taste preferences or switch up the ingredients I have on hand. Best of all, it’s a complete meal without much cleanup.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
1 cup long-grain rice or jasmine rice
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
1 garlic clove, minced
½ onion, diced
1½ cups chicken broth or water
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional garnish: sliced green onions or sesame seeds

directions

I start by heating the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
I add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
I stir in the onion and garlic, cooking for another 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
I add the rice to the skillet and let it toast for a minute, stirring gently.
I pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and pineapple chunks. Then I stir everything together.
I bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
I let it simmer for about 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
I fluff the rice with a fork, season with salt and pepper if needed, and garnish before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I like to add red bell peppers or snap peas for a pop of color and crunch. If I’m in the mood for something spicier, I stir in a bit of sriracha or red pepper flakes. I’ve also tried it with teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a sweeter, stickier twist. For a low-carb version, I’ve swapped the rice for cauliflower rice and it works surprisingly well.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the microwave or a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. It’s not freezer-friendly with the rice already cooked, but I can freeze the cooked chicken and pineapple mixture separately if I want to prep ahead.

FAQs

What kind of pineapple works best?

I prefer fresh pineapple for its texture and bright flavor, but canned chunks in juice (not syrup) work perfectly too.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, I’ve used boneless, skinless thighs and they come out juicy and flavorful every time.

Is it okay to use instant rice?

I wouldn’t recommend it for this recipe since it can turn mushy during simmering. Long-grain or jasmine rice holds up much better.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. I’ve made it with tofu instead of chicken and used vegetable broth—it still tastes great.

How can I make it more flavorful?

I like to add a splash of sesame oil at the end or toss in chopped cilantro or green onions for extra punch.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the kind of meal I can always count on—easy, tasty, and versatile. Whether I need something quick after work or want to cook ahead for the week, this dish hits the spot. The sweet-savory combo keeps things interesting, and with just one pan, cleanup is a breeze. It’s comfort food with a tropical twist that never gets old.