Pin itChicken with pineapple and rice combo | cookwithcarla.com
This sunny mix of tangy and rich tastes, my Pineapple Chicken and Rice adds island vibes to your evening meal. Soft chicken pieces, ripe pineapple chunks, and light, airy rice work together for a well-rounded dish that feels both homey and fresh. Every mouthful offers a dance of textures and flavors that whisk you away to a beachy getaway.
The first time I threw pineapple into my usual chicken and rice, I couldn't believe the difference. That touch of tropical sweetness turned an everyday meal into something really special.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
Rice: Jasmine rice brings flowery hints that boost the tropical theme
Pineapple: Go with fresh for the best pop of flavor and texture
Chicken: Pick boneless thighs or breasts cut the same size so they cook evenly
Soy Sauce: Gives deep flavor and cuts through the pineapple sweetness
Bell Peppers: Use different colors for a pretty look and sweet taste
Ginger: A bit of fresh ginger adds warmth and depth
Crafting Your Island Dish
Build The Base
Cook aromatics until they smell amazing and turn golden.
Season The Chicken
Give it a quick bath in Asian-inspired flavors.
Perfect The Rice
Wash it well and cook until it's soft and fluffy.
Finish With Style
Top with fresh herbs and toasted seeds.
Combine Elements
Mix everything carefully to blend the flavors just right.
Pin itTasty Pineapple Chicken and Rice | cookwithcarla.com
My grandma always told me 'hot wok, cold oil' was the trick to great stir-fries - it helps get the chicken nice and brown outside while keeping it juicy inside.
Complete Your Dinner
Make this meal extra special with some crunchy egg rolls, cool cucumber salad, or quick-cooked baby bok choy on the side. For fancy dinners, try serving it inside a scooped-out pineapple half.
Tasty Twists
Make the dish your own by tossing in some crunchy cashews, stirring in creamy coconut milk, or adding aromatic Thai basil leaves. Want something lighter? Try using cauliflower rice instead.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Pop any extras in a sealed container and they'll stay good for about three days. When warming up, add a little splash of water to keep everything moist and stop the rice from drying out.
After trying this recipe loads of times in my kitchen, I've found that getting the sweet and savory parts just right makes all the difference. When you give each ingredient the attention it needs, this simple meal turns into something really amazing.
Pin itDelicious Pineapple Chicken and Rice | cookwithcarla.com
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use fresh pineapple?
Sure! Chop up 2 cups of fresh pineapple plus save 1/2 cup juice if possible. Canned is just easier to use.
→ What's the best rice to use?
You can't go wrong with jasmine or basmati rice for great flavor. Long-grain is fine, but brown rice takes extra time to cook.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! Toss in peas, carrots, or snap peas. Add tougher vegetables earlier so they cook through.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Pop everything into an airtight container and refrigerate for 3–4 days. Or freeze it up to 3 months without any problem.
→ Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely! Sprinkle on red pepper flakes or a squeeze of sriracha. The spice works so well with the pineapple's sweetness.
Chicken Rice Pineapple
A tropical one-pan meal with juicy chicken, tangy pineapple, and fluffy rice. Great for quick weeknight dinners full of flavor.
021 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks, save the juice and drain the rest
031 tablespoon olive oil or any cooking oil
041 pound chicken breast, cut into small cubes
→ Flavor and Sauce
051/4 cup soy sauce (regular or low sodium)
061 1/2 cups chicken stock
071 teaspoon grated ginger or powdered ginger
081 clove garlic, finely minced
092 tablespoons of honey or any sweetener
→ Veggies and Toppings
101/4 cup sliced green onion
111 chopped red bell pepper
12Add cilantro leaves for extra flavor on top
13Salt and pepper for adjusting flavor
Instructions
Step 01
Warm up the oil in a big pan over medium heat. Toss in the chicken and cook it until all sides are browned and it's fully cooked, roughly 6-7 minutes. Put it aside for later.
Step 02
Using the same pan, throw in the red pepper, garlic, and ginger. Stir them for about 2-3 minutes, just until the aroma hits and the pepper softens a little.
Step 03
Into the pan, pour in the reserved pineapple juice, chicken broth, honey, soy sauce, and uncooked rice. Stir it all up, let it reach a boil, then lower the heat, cover it up, and let it simmer for around 15-18 minutes until the rice is perfectly cooked.
Step 04
Fold in your browned chicken and pineapple chunks into the pan of cooked rice. Heat everything through for around 2-3 more minutes.
Step 05
Give it a taste and sprinkle on some salt and pepper if you want. Finish by topping it with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro, and serve warm.
Notes
You can use fresh pineapple or canned, both work perfectly!
Swap in other veggies you like to change things up.
Make it ahead and store it—it reheats great and can be frozen too.
Tools You'll Need
Large pan or skillet with a lid
Knife for chopping
Cutting board to prepare ingredients
Spoons and cups for measuring
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.