If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances those irresistible sweet and savory flavors, look no further than this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe. It brings together tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and a luscious sauce that hugs every bite of fluffy rice. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursts with vibrant colors and textures that make every meal feel special. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe delivers a satisfying punch of flavor that’s sure to become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of simple ingredients come together to create such a flavorful and colorful meal. Each ingredient has a role, from adding depth and moisture to brightening the overall dish.
- 400g chicken breast or thighs: Tender, boneless, and skinless pieces are perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks: Fresh or canned in juice, pineapple adds that fresh tropical sweetness and juicy texture.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings umami richness to balance out the sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For a fragrant punch that enhances flavor depth.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds caramelized sweetness that ties the dish together.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce to a lovely glossy finish.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: A slight tang that cuts through the sweetness perfectly.
- 2 stalks green onions, chopped: For fresh color and subtle sharpness as garnish.
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice: The hearty base that soaks up every bit of sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil or vegetable oil: Adds a toasty aroma and helps with cooking the chicken.
How to Make Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by dicing your chicken into bite-sized pieces, which helps them cook evenly and absorb more sauce. Mince the garlic finely so it releases its aroma fully, and chop the pineapple if you’re using a fresh one. Make sure your rice is cooked and warm, ready to catch all the sauce later.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
Whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. This mixture serves as the magic that blends sweet, tangy, and savory flavors while creating a luscious glaze for the chicken and pineapple.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat your skillet over medium-high heat along with sesame or vegetable oil. Add the chicken and let it cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s golden brown and cooked through. This step locks in juicy tenderness while giving a slight crisp on the surface.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Pineapple
Once the chicken is nearly done, toss in the minced garlic and pineapple chunks. Stir everything together to combine those fragrant, juicy elements for another 2 to 3 minutes. The pineapple softens slightly while releasing its tropical juice that mingles with the chicken.
Step 5: Pour in the Sauce and Thicken
Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken and pineapple beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce gleams and sticks to every bite.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Serve the warm, saucy mixture over your cooked rice and sprinkle with chopped green onions. The fresh scallions add an inviting crispness and hint of sharpness that brighten every mouthful.
How to Serve Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions are a classic garnish, adding freshness and a lively pop of color. For extra flair, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped cilantro to enhance the visual appeal and give a slight nutty or herbal twist.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, which add a fresh crunch that contrasts the tender chicken and pineapple. A crisp cucumber salad or light Asian slaw also complements the flavors and keeps the meal balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe in hollowed-out pineapple halves. It creates an impressive tropical display perfect for entertaining. Alternatively, spoon the dish into lettuce cups for a fresh, handheld option that’s both light and satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a delicious next-day meal. Use within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, making it a perfect make-ahead option. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently to preserve the texture and flavor of both the chicken and pineapple.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Microwave reheating is fine for convenience, but stirring halfway through helps heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually a fantastic choice because they stay juicy and tender after cooking. Feel free to use whichever cut you prefer.
Is it better to use fresh or canned pineapple?
Both work well. Fresh pineapple offers a brighter, more natural sweetness, while canned pineapple is convenient and just as flavorful when drained properly. Use what you have on hand.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep the dish safe for gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
What type of rice do you recommend?
White jasmine or brown rice both complement the dish nicely. Jasmine rice has a fragrant aroma that pairs beautifully, while brown rice adds nuttier flavor and extra fiber.
How spicy is this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe?
This recipe is mild and focuses on sweet and savory notes. However, you can always add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe brings joyful flavor and ease to your dinner table like few dishes can. Its wonderful balance of juicy pineapple, tender chicken, and saucy rice makes it a winning weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests. Give it a try and experience firsthand just how rewarding such a simple recipe can be!
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 dish combines tender, bite-sized chicken pieces with juicy pineapple chunks in a flavorful soy-based sauce, served over warm rice. It’s a quick and easy skillet recipe that blends sweet, tangy, and umami flavors for a delightful meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 400g chicken breast or thighs, boneless and skinless, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (canned in juice or fresh, chopped if fresh)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Other Ingredients
- 2 stalks green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice, warm
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil or vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic, and chop the pineapple if using fresh. Ensure your rice is already cooked and warm to serve.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set this sauce aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the sesame or vegetable oil. Add the diced chicken pieces and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Add Garlic and Pineapple: Add the minced garlic and pineapple chunks to the skillet with the chicken. Stir well and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes to let the flavors meld and the pineapple slightly caramelize.
- Thicken Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the chicken and pineapple. Stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the chicken and pineapple pieces.
- Serve: Serve the sweet and savory pineapple chicken mixture over hot, cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy your flavorful meal!
Notes
- For a healthier option, use brown rice instead of white rice.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful dish.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar to taste depending on your preferred sweetness level.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if desired.
- Use fresh pineapple when in season for the best flavor, but canned pineapple in juice works well too.
