Looking for a flavorful, balanced, and easy-to-make meal? Pineapple chicken and rice is the perfect solution. This dish brings together tender chicken, fragrant jasmine rice, and sweet pineapple chunks for a tasty and satisfying meal all in one skillet.
This recipe is great for family dinners, meal prep, or a quick weekday lunch, and it stores well for leftovers.
Why Try This Recipe?
Sweet and Savory Harmony
The juicy pineapple adds a refreshing sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory chicken and aromatic vegetables. The textures and flavors are perfectly balanced without requiring any complicated ingredients.
Simple and Meal-Prep Friendly
With clear steps and basic pantry staples, this dish comes together in under 40 minutes. Best of all, it reheats wonderfully, making it ideal for leftovers.
Ingredients and Instructions
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, a splash of soy sauce
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside. - Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. - Add Rice and Broth
Stir in the jasmine rice to coat it with the pan juices. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Cover and reduce heat. - Simmer Until Rice is Tender
Let the rice cook covered for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed. - Combine Chicken and Pineapple
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, add the pineapple, and stir well. Cook for an additional 3–5 minutes until everything is heated through. - Garnish and Serve
Top with green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of soy sauce if desired. Serve hot.
Extra Tips
Make it Vegetarian
Replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and swap in vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
Add a Spicy Kick
If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to balance the pineapple’s sweetness.
Pineapple Chicken and Rice: A Tropical Twist on a Comfort Classic
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A quick and flavorful one-pan dish combining tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and jasmine rice. Sweet, savory, and totally satisfying.
Ingredients
– 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
– 1 cup pineapple, cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Optional: green onions, sesame seeds, soy sauce
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Set aside.
3. Sauté onion and red bell pepper until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
4. Stir in jasmine rice and coat with oil. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, or until rice is tender.
6. Add cooked chicken and pineapple. Stir and heat for 3–5 minutes.
7. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Notes
Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor, but canned works in a pinch. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
