If you love meals that are easy to make, bursting with flavor, and just a little bit different, then Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the recipe for you! With juicy chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and a sweet yet tangy pineapple sauce, this dish feels like a tropical vacation in a bowl. It’s one of those recipes that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table, and it’s all made in one pot for minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tropical Flavors: The sweetness of the pineapple mixed with savory chicken and rice is a match made in heaven.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor—everything cooks together in one pot!
Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: You can adjust the level of sweetness or add extra veggies to make it your own.

Ingredients

Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll need (full ingredient list below):

Chicken breast or thighs (depending on your preference)
Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
Long-grain white rice
Soy sauce for a savory flavor
Garlic and ginger for a bit of depth
Honey for that touch of sweetness
Green onions and cilantro for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Season your chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt and pepper, then cook them for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the garlic and ginger for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This will build the flavor base for the dish.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Pineapple

Stir in the rice and let it toast lightly in the pan for 1-2 minutes. Add the pineapple chunks (with some of the juice if you want a more intense pineapple flavor) along with soy sauce, honey, and a bit of water. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture. Cover and let everything simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the delicious pineapple flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender, remove from heat. Slice the chicken and serve it on top of the pineapple rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro for a fresh finish.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use Fresh Pineapple: If you can, fresh pineapple will give the dish an even fresher, tangier flavor. Just make sure to remove the core and chop it into chunks.
Add Heat: For a spicy twist, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños to the rice mixture.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on your chicken as it cooks to avoid it becoming dry. A meat thermometer can help ensure it reaches the perfect temperature (165°F/75°C).

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh to make a delicious plant-based version of this dish.
Extra Veggies: Add some bell peppers, peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
Different Protein: You can use pork or shrimp instead of chicken for a different twist on the dish.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This dish is filling on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch. Pair it with a light, refreshing drink like iced tea or coconut water to complement the tropical flavors. A side of crispy fried wontons would also be a perfect match for this sweet and savory dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist. If you have any leftover chicken, it can be shredded and added back to the rice while reheating for extra flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time and more water. You might need to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I use canned pineapple?
Definitely! Canned pineapple works great in this recipe. Just make sure to drain it before using it to avoid excess liquid in the dish.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Then, simply cook everything together when you’re ready to serve.

4. What kind of chicken should I use?
You can use either boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs tend to be juicier, but breasts work perfectly fine as well.

Conclusion

Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the perfect meal to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or a little bit of both, this dish has got you covered. Enjoy!

Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice – A Tropical Twist on a Classic Dish

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Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic rice, and the tropical sweetness of pineapple. This recipe offers a harmonious blend of flavors, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Fusion
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant.
Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced red bell pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
Combine Rice and Pineapple: Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the chicken and vegetables. Fold in the pineapple chunks.
Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour this sauce over the rice mixture, ensuring even distribution.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Finish and Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions. Serve warm.

Notes

Protein Variations: This recipe can also be made with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Rice Alternatives: For a healthier twist, consider using brown rice or quinoa. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.