Looking for an easy and delicious dinner that brings the perfect mix of sweet and savory flavors? Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the answer! This dish combines juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and fluffy rice, all cooked in a flavorful sauce that’s packed with tropical goodness.
Whether you're craving a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special gathering, this one-pan pineapple chicken recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it's easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with nutrients. Let’s dive into how you can make this irresistible dish at home!
Why You'll Love Pineapple Chicken and Rice
✅ Sweet & Savory Flavor – The mix of pineapple’s natural sweetness with the savory chicken and soy sauce is a match made in heaven.
✅ One-Pan Wonder – No extra dishes to clean! This meal comes together in a single pan for easy prep and cleanup.
✅ Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike love this tropical-inspired meal.
✅ Healthy & Balanced – Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients You'll Need
To make this mouthwatering pineapple chicken and rice, gather these simple ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Rice & Sauce:
- 1 cup uncooked jasmine or basmati rice
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Lime wedges (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and ginger powder.
- Add the chicken pieces and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to an hour for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
- In the same pan, add pineapple chunks and cook for 2 minutes until slightly caramelized.
- Pour in the chicken broth, pineapple juice, soy sauce, and honey. Stir well.
- Add the uncooked rice and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is fully cooked.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix everything together.
- Let it simmer for 2 more minutes so the flavors blend beautifully.
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Tips for the Best Pineapple Chicken and Rice
✔ Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor, but canned pineapple works great too!
✔ Want more crunch? Add diced bell peppers or cashews for extra texture.
✔ For extra heat, add sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce.
✔ Short on time? Use pre-cooked rice and simply mix it in at the end.
What to Serve with Pineapple Chicken and Rice?
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can also pair it with:
- A simple side salad for a refreshing touch.
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for extra veggies.
- Garlic butter naan or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Health Benefits of Pineapple Chicken and Rice
🍍 Pineapple is loaded with vitamin C, which boosts immunity and supports digestion.
🍗 Chicken is a lean protein source that keeps you full and helps build muscle.
🍚 Rice provides essential carbohydrates for energy.
🛡️ Low in unhealthy fats, making it a great choice for a balanced diet.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that everyone will love, this Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is a must-try! With juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and perfectly cooked rice, this one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners.
Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out! 🍍🍗🍚
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