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Pineapple Chicken Rice

Category: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

Quick one-pan chicken with pineapple and rice! Cook in 40 minutes and enjoy a sweet, savory blend perfect for dinner.
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Barbara Chef
Updated on Thu, 17 Apr 2025 22:26:54 GMT
Pineapple Chicken Rice Highlight
Pineapple Chicken Rice | cookwithcarla.com

The sweet tang of pineapple mixed with juicy chicken turns plain jasmine rice into an amazing tropical treat. This all-in-one dish marries succulent chicken with lightly browned pineapple bits, creating a tasty combo that'll brighten up your evening meals.

Whenever I make this dish, I think back to lazy Hawaiian nights where pineapple and chicken go hand in hand. Don't rush the pineapple - let it brown a bit to release all its sweetness.

Key Components

  • Fresh pineapple adds brightness - you can use canned but fresh gets browner and tastier
  • Jasmine rice soaks up flavors better than standard white rice - it brings flowery hints to the mix
  • Fresh ginger gives a nice kick - shred it right before cooking for the strongest flavor

Building Your Island Delight

Rice Done Right
Wash jasmine rice until you see clear water
Brown rice slightly in pan before pouring in liquid
After cooking, rest covered for 10 minutes
Handling The Chicken
Slice into same-sized chunks for even cooking
Add plenty of spices beforehand
Brown until golden but leave centers slightly raw
Pineapple Tricks
Brown pineapple chunks without moving them too much for richer taste
Keep space between pieces so they brown not steam
Keep some fresh pieces aside for topping
Pineapple chicken Highlight
Pineapple chicken | cookwithcarla.com

My grandma from Thailand always told me to brown the rice first - it won't stick together and gets a slight nutty flavor that works great with sweet pineapple.

Mixing Flavors Just Right

It's all about building taste in steps: start with the savory chicken and spices, then mix in the pineapple sweetness bit by bit.

Getting The One-Pan Technique Down

Cook everything one after another and the flavors stack up - each new ingredient picks up the tasty browned bits left behind.

Getting Your Rice Just Right

Don't skip letting your rice sit after cooking. This extra steaming makes sure you get fluffy grains packed with all those amazing flavors.

Tricks From The Pros

Cut your pineapple pieces the same size so they cook evenly

Save the pineapple juice to scrape up pan bits

Heat sesame seeds until they smell nutty before sprinkling on top

Easy Pineapple Chicken Recipe Highlight
Easy Pineapple Chicken Recipe | cookwithcarla.com

I've spent years getting this dish just right at our family spot, and I've learned it's all about timing - especially when browning the pineapple. When you catch that sweet pineapple smell mixing with ginger and soy, you're just minutes away from something really special.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of rice should I use?
Jasmine rice works best! Any long-grain variety is fine, though brown rice takes more time to cook.
→ Can this be prepped ahead?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water for moisture.
→ Fresh pineapple or canned?
Either works well. If using canned, just be sure to drain it. Fresh gives a firmer texture and bolder flavor.
→ How do I avoid sticky rice?
Keep the lid on while cooking, use low heat, and stick to the correct liquid-to-rice ratio.
→ Want to toss in veggies?
Go for it! Snow peas, broccoli, or carrots pair nicely with the flavors.

Pineapple Chicken Rice

Tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and flavorful rice in one skillet. Ready in no time for a quick and yummy dinner.

Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
30 min
Total Time
40 min

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Asian

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary Preferences: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Proteins & Fruits

01 1 cup pineapple chunks
02 1 pound cubed chicken breast

→ Produce

03 1/4 cup sliced green onions
04 1 red bell pepper, chopped
05 2 minced garlic cloves
06 1 onion, diced
07 1 teaspoon grated ginger

→ Pantry

08 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
09 2 cups of chicken stock
10 1 tablespoon olive oil
11 A dash of salt and pepper
12 1 tablespoon soy sauce
13 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice

Steps

Step 01

Warm up olive oil in a big skillet on medium heat. Toss in the chicken pieces and cook them until they turn a nice golden shade.

Step 02

Soften the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper by sautéing them. Stir in the pineapple and let it cook for another two minutes.

Step 03

Add the rice, stock, soy sauce, ginger, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let it boil, then turn the heat low, cover, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes.

Step 04

Put the chicken back in the skillet, combine everything well. Sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds on top before serving.

Notes

  1. Fresh pineapple gives the best flavor.

Required Equipment

  • A big skillet with a lid
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring tools

Allergen Information

Double-check every ingredient for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional if unsure.
  • Soy is included

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

This data is for informational purposes only and doesn’t replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: ~
  • Carbs: ~
  • Protein: ~