Name: Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 400g chicken breast or thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup pineapple chunks (canned in juice or fresh); 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 stalks green onions, chopped (for garnish); 2 cups cooked white or brown rice; 1 tablespoon sesame oil or vegetable oil

If you’re on the hunt for a quick and delicious dinner idea that perfectly balances flavors, look no further than this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice. Packed with the tropical taste of juicy pineapple, succulent chicken, and a rich, savory glaze, this dish is an instant family favorite. Perfect for hectic weeknights or when you want something healthy yet indulgent, it’s a recipe that will please every palate at the dinner table.

This quick meal provides a delightful combination of sweet and savory notes that leaves your taste buds dancing. The juicy pineapple complements the tender chicken, while the sticky glaze adds a much-appreciated depth of flavor. Best of all, it’s incredibly versatile, making it a great meal prep option or a fabulous choice for lunch. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a wholesome meal that checks all boxes—flavor, practicality, and satisfaction!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Time-efficient: Prepare this dish in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavor explosion: The balance of sweet pineapple and savory chicken offers a delightful taste experience.
Healthy and hearty: This meal is loaded with nutritious ingredients while providing comfort food vibes.
Family-friendly: With its delicious flavors, it’s guaranteed to be a hit among both kids and adults.
Versatile recipes: Easily tweak ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or seasonal availability.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To prepare for making the Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice, start by gathering all your ingredients. This recipe requires minimal prep, so you’ll want to make sure everything is in easy reach. You will need chicken breast or thighs, pineapple chunks, soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, cornstarch, rice vinegar, and your choice of cooked white or brown rice. Once you have all your ingredients, set your cooking tools ready.

For this recipe, a large skillet is essential to properly cook the chicken and meld the flavors with the sauce. A sharp knife will assist you in dicing the chicken and chopping the garlic and pineapple as needed. Also, don’t forget to have bowls for mixing the sauce and a suitable spoon for stirring. Having everything within arm’s reach will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients

400g chicken breast or thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup pineapple chunks (canned in juice or fresh)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 stalks green onions, chopped (for garnish)
2 cups cooked white or brown rice
1 tablespoon sesame oil or vegetable oil

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Pineapple

Begin by dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure it’s easy to cook evenly. If you’re using fresh pineapple, make sure to chop it into chunks similar in size to the chicken. Mince your garlic and set it aside. It’s most efficient to prep everything before cooking, so have your cooked rice ready and warmed up as you work.

Step 2: Whisk the Sauce

In a separate small bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps from the cornstarch. This savory sauce will play a crucial role in adding flavor to your dish, so set it aside until you’re ready to use it.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your sesame or vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the diced chicken. Sear the chicken for approximately 6–8 minutes until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure all sides have a nice caramelization, which will enhance the flavors of the dish.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Pineapple

With your chicken cooked to perfection, add your minced garlic and pineapple chunks to the skillet. Stir continuously for about 2–3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the pineapple warms through. The pineapple will release some of its juices during this time, which will add a fantastic sweetness to the mix.

Step 5: Incorporate the Sauce

Now it’s time to pour that beautifully whisked sauce over the chicken and pineapple mixture. Stir continuously for an additional 2–3 minutes. This is where the magic happens as the sauce thickens, coating the chicken and pineapple in a sticky, savory glaze that’s sure to make your taste buds tingle.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the sauce has reached the desired thickness, serve the chicken and pineapple mixture over a generous portion of hot cooked rice. Sprinkle with chopped green onions as a garnish for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your quick and tasty Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice!

Variations

Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or pork for different protein experiences.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
Spices: Enhance the flavor with ginger or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Cooking Notes

For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a tablespoon of soy sauce for about 15 minutes before starting the cooking process.
Opt for fresh pineapple for an even greater flavor boost, selecting a ripe one to balance the sweet and tangy notes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a light, healthy meal.
Pair with steamed vegetables or stir-fried greens for added nutrient diversity.

Tips

Keep the sauce silky by ensuring to stir it well before adding it to the skillet, which prevents lump formation.
Leftover pineapple chicken also makes great meal prep for lunches or additional dinners throughout the week.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving
Protein: 32g
Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

What can I serve with Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or even some crispy spring rolls.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make it ahead and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Is it okay to use canned pineapple?

Canned pineapple is perfectly fine and convenient. Just make sure to drain it if it’s in syrup to avoid excess sweetness.

Conclusion

Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings joy to your dinner table. With its colorful presentation and delightful blend of tastes, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation. So why not give this easy recipe a try? It’s perfect for busy families seeking nutritious yet satisfying meals. Make sure to share your thoughts or any variations you come up with in the comments section. Happy cooking!