If you are looking for a dish that perfectly balances the bright, juicy sweetness of pineapple with the comforting warmth of tender chicken and fluffy rice, this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s a fabulous meal that comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something impressive without a ton of fuss. The juicy pineapple bursts with flavor against the savory soy sauce and a hint of brown sugar, while the rice acts as the perfect canvas to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. It’s vibrant, satisfying, and just the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep on rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe keeps things delightfully simple, with ingredients that come together to create a symphony of taste, texture, and color. Each element is essential—whether it’s the juicy pineapple chunks that bring brightness or the garlic that adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breast or thighs: Choose your favorite cut, but bite-sized pieces ensure quick cooking and even flavor.
- 1 ½ cups pineapple chunks: Fresh is perfect, but canned in juice works just as well for that sweet tang.
- ½ cup pineapple juice: Use the reserved juice from the can or fresh for added sweetness and moisture.
- â…“ cup soy sauce: This lends the savory umami foundation that makes the dish so addictive.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the savory and brighten the overall flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant kick that complements both the chicken and pineapple.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce to a glossy, perfect consistency.
- 2 tablespoons water (for slurry): Mixed with cornstarch, this thickening agent makes the sauce cling beautifully to every bite.
- 4 cups cooked white or brown rice: A fluffy base to soak up all those delightful juices.
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish): Fresh, crisp, and colorful—adding a mild onion flavor.
- 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking): A neutral oil to sear the chicken to golden perfection.
How to Make Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure it cooks evenly and quickly. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the chicken. Let it sear undisturbed to develop that beautiful golden crust, turning occasionally until the pieces are cooked through. Once ready, set the chicken aside to rest while you build the irresistible sauce in the same pan.
Step 2: Build the Flavorful Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and throw in the minced garlic, letting it sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and aromatic—this step is crucial for infusing flavor. Now, pour in the soy sauce, pineapple juice, and brown sugar or honey. Stir everything together so the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to meld into a tasty glaze that will later coat your chicken beautifully.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a smooth slurry. Slowly pour this mixture into the skillet while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Watch the sauce transform into a thick, glossy coating that’s just the right texture to cling onto the chicken and pineapple chunks.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Pineapple
Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet, then add the pineapple chunks, stirring gently to combine. Allow everything to simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes, so the flavors meld and the pineapple warms through without losing its delightful juiciness.
Step 5: Serve Over Rice
Finally, it’s time to plate! Scoop the hot, fluffy rice onto your plates and spoon the luscious pineapple chicken mixture on top. Don’t forget to finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions for a pop of color and brightness. Dig in immediately for a truly comforting and mouthwatering meal.
How to Serve Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing with fresh green onions adds a pleasant crunch and mild savory note. You can also sprinkle toasted sesame seeds to introduce a toasty, nutty flavor and an appealing textural contrast. For a touch of heat, thinly sliced red chili peppers work wonders.
Side Dishes
This dish is a star on its own, but pairing it with simple sides like steamed broccoli, snap peas, or a crisp Asian cucumber salad really rounds out the meal. These add freshness and crunch which balance the richness of the pineapple chicken beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe in hollowed-out pineapple halves—this instant tropical vibe makes it perfect for entertaining or a special family dinner. Alternatively, plate it in a bowl for a comforting one-dish meal with vibrant layers that invite you to dive right in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The sweet and savory flavors actually deepen overnight, making this dish an excellent next-day lunch choice. Consume within 3 to 4 days for best taste and safety.
Freezing
This pineapple chicken and rice recipe freezes well, although rice texture might change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, portion into airtight containers and keep for up to 2 months. Remember to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain the best quality.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally to evenly warm the sauce and chicken while preserving the vibrant flavors and tender pineapple.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring extra juiciness and richness to the dish, which complements the sweet and savory flavors perfectly. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Is fresh pineapple better than canned?
Fresh pineapple offers a brighter, more vibrant flavor and firmer texture, but canned pineapple in juice works wonderfully too and is more convenient, especially out of season. Just be sure to use pineapple packed in juice rather than syrup for a balanced sweetness.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the regular soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. This keeps the delicious umami notes intact while making the recipe friendly for gluten-sensitive diets.
What type of rice works best?
Both white and brown rice are great choices. White rice offers a neutral, fluffy base, while brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and a bit more chewiness, making for a heartier meal.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn can be added during the sauce step for added crunch and nutrition. Just toss them in to soften slightly before adding the chicken back in.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe is a delightful, fuss-free dish that brings incredible flavor, color, and comfort to your dinner table. Its perfect harmony of juicy pineapple, tender chicken, and fluffy rice makes it one of those keepers you’ll turn to again and again. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do—happy cooking!
Print
Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe features tender chicken pieces simmered in a flavorful pineapple and soy sauce glaze, served over fluffy rice and garnished with fresh green onions. It’s a quick, delicious meal balancing sweet and savory flavors perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 ½ cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned in juice)
- ½ cup pineapple juice (reserved from the can or fresh)
- â…“ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
- 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking)
To Serve
- 4 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare and cook chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and create sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté until fragrant, approximately 30 seconds. Add soy sauce, pineapple juice, and brown sugar or honey to the skillet. Stir the mixture well to combine the flavors.
- Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Pour this slurry into the sauce and stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Combine chicken and pineapple: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the pineapple chunks. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to heat the pineapple through and blend the flavors.
- Serve: Serve the sweet and savory pineapple chicken hot over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh flavor and enjoy your meal.
Notes
- Using fresh pineapple enhances the flavor but canned pineapple in juice works well too.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar or substituting honey as preferred.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
- Cook the rice ahead of time or use leftover rice to save time.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier meat or breasts for leaner protein.
