Cooking at home is one of life’s greatest joys, especially when you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to make, and guaranteed to impress. Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the perfect recipe for beginner cooks who want a simple yet delicious meal that balances sweetness and savoriness. This dish brings together tender chicken, juicy pineapple, fragrant jasmine rice, and a mix of vegetables, all tied together with a touch of soy sauce and ginger. The combination of flavors is not only mouthwatering but also visually appealing, making it an excellent choice for family dinners, casual gatherings, or a comforting meal after a long day.
PrintPineapple Chicken and Rice: A Sweet and Savory Tropical Delight for Home Cooks
Craving something sweet, savory, and full of flavor? This Pineapple Chicken and Rice is your go-to dish! The juicy pineapple adds a touch of sweetness, while the chicken brings savory richness, all perfectly complemented by tender rice. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this easy-to-make recipe will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite. Quick, flavorful, and satisfying—what more could you ask for?
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- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed – You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- 1 cup pineapple, cubed – Fresh pineapple is best, but canned pineapple (drained) works well too.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Can be substituted with vegetable oil or avocado oil.
- 1 onion, chopped – Yellow or red onion will work.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced – Adds color and sweetness; you can use yellow or green bell peppers as well.
- 1 cup jasmine rice – Long-grain white rice or basmati rice can also be used.
- 2 cups chicken broth – Enhances flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a lighter taste.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Adds umami; use low-sodium soy sauce for less salt.
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated – Fresh ginger provides the best flavor, but ground ginger works as a substitute.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust according to preference.
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced – For garnish and freshness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds – Optional, but adds a nutty crunch.
Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
💡 Tip: To ensure the chicken stays juicy, avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if needed.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly softened.
💡 Tip: Stir frequently to prevent burning. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth.
3. Add the Pineapple and Rice
- Stir in the cubed pineapple and cook for 2 minutes to release its natural sweetness.
- Add the jasmine rice and stir well to coat with the flavors.
💡 Tip: If using canned pineapple, drain it well to prevent excess liquid in the dish.
4. Simmer the Dish
- Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and grated ginger.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked.
💡 Tip: Keep the lid on while the rice cooks to trap steam and ensure even cooking.
5. Combine Everything
- Once the rice is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet.
- Stir everything together to combine flavors. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
💡 Tip: If the rice seems too dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
💡 Tip: For extra flavor, drizzle with a bit of sesame oil before serving.
Notes
❌ Rice is undercooked or too dry – Add a bit more broth and let it cook for a few extra minutes, covered.
❌ Rice is too mushy – Reduce the liquid next time or cook uncovered for a few extra minutes.
❌ Chicken is too dry – Searing at a high temperature helps lock in juices. Try marinating the chicken in soy sauce before cooking.
❌ Dish is too sweet – Balance the sweetness with a little extra soy sauce or a squeeze of lime juice.
❌ Dish lacks flavor – Adjust the seasoning by adding more ginger, garlic, or a dash of soy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
This dish is also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the level of sweetness, add different vegetables, or swap out ingredients to suit your dietary preferences. Plus, everything cooks in one skillet, minimizing cleanup and making the cooking process more convenient. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or looking for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner, Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation.
Why Pineapple Chicken and Rice is Perfect for Beginners
- Simple and Quick – This dish comes together in just about 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Convenience – Everything cooks in a single skillet, reducing the number of dishes to wash.
- Balanced Flavors – The sweetness of pineapple pairs perfectly with the savoriness of chicken, creating a well-rounded taste.
- Customizable – You can adjust the ingredients to match your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Nutritious – With protein, fiber, and vitamins from the chicken, rice, and vegetables, this meal is both satisfying and wholesome.
Ingredients and Substitutions
To make Pineapple Chicken and Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed – You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- 1 cup pineapple, cubed – Fresh pineapple is best, but canned pineapple (drained) works well too.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Can be substituted with vegetable oil or avocado oil.
- 1 onion, chopped – Yellow or red onion will work.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced – Adds color and sweetness; you can use yellow or green bell peppers as well.
- 1 cup jasmine rice – Long-grain white rice or basmati rice can also be used.
- 2 cups chicken broth – Enhances flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a lighter taste.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Adds umami; use low-sodium soy sauce for less salt.
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated – Fresh ginger provides the best flavor, but ground ginger works as a substitute.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust according to preference.
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced – For garnish and freshness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds – Optional, but adds a nutty crunch.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
💡 Tip: To ensure the chicken stays juicy, avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if needed.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly softened.
💡 Tip: Stir frequently to prevent burning. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth.
3. Add the Pineapple and Rice
- Stir in the cubed pineapple and cook for 2 minutes to release its natural sweetness.
- Add the jasmine rice and stir well to coat with the flavors.
💡 Tip: If using canned pineapple, drain it well to prevent excess liquid in the dish.
4. Simmer the Dish
- Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and grated ginger.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked.
💡 Tip: Keep the lid on while the rice cooks to trap steam and ensure even cooking.
5. Combine Everything
- Once the rice is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet.
- Stir everything together to combine flavors. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
💡 Tip: If the rice seems too dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
💡 Tip: For extra flavor, drizzle with a bit of sesame oil before serving.
Troubleshooting Tips for Beginners
❌ Rice is undercooked or too dry – Add a bit more broth and let it cook for a few extra minutes, covered.
❌ Rice is too mushy – Reduce the liquid next time or cook uncovered for a few extra minutes.
❌ Chicken is too dry – Searing at a high temperature helps lock in juices. Try marinating the chicken in soy sauce before cooking.
❌ Dish is too sweet – Balance the sweetness with a little extra soy sauce or a squeeze of lime juice.
❌ Dish lacks flavor – Adjust the seasoning by adding more ginger, garlic, or a dash of soy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a well-rounded dish, but you can enhance it with:
- A Side of Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots add extra nutrients.
- A Fresh Salad – A simple cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well.
- A Drizzle of Spicy Sauce – A touch of sriracha or chili flakes adds heat.
- A Squeeze of Lime Juice – Enhances freshness and balances sweetness.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Let the dish cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Microwave with a damp paper towel on top for moisture.
💡 Tip: If freezing, store the rice and chicken separately for better texture when reheated.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly balanced flavors – The combination of savory chicken, sweet pineapple, and fragrant rice creates a mouthwatering meal.
- Beginner-friendly – Easy-to-follow steps make it ideal for those just starting their cooking journey.
- Minimal cleanup – One-pan cooking means less time washing dishes.
- Meal prep friendly – Make a batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
- Customizable – Adjust the sweetness, add more vegetables, or swap the protein for variety.
Final Thoughts
Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a dish that proves simple ingredients can create a flavorful and satisfying meal. With its vibrant colors, balanced flavors, and easy preparation, it’s a great recipe for beginner cooks looking to build their confidence in the kitchen. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with family, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Have you tried this recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments below! If you made any substitutions or added your own twist, we’d love to hear about it. Happy cooking!