Sweet, savory, and family-friendly
Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors in one comforting, easy meal. Juicy chicken, tender rice, and chunks of sweet pineapple cook together in a lightly glazed sauce that’s both cozy and refreshing. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights because everything comes together in one dish with simple ingredients you likely already have. It’s filling, colorful, and kid-friendly, yet flavorful enough to keep adults happy too. Whether you’re meal prepping or just craving something a little different, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
⏱️ Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4
📝 Ingredients List
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, juice reserved
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions or sesame seeds
✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- Large skillet or deep sauté pan with lid
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
- Brown the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden. Remove chicken and set aside. - Build the flavor
In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant, scraping up any browned bits. - Add rice & liquids
Stir in uncooked rice, chicken broth, reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, and honey. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer. - Cook the rice
Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook 15–18 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. - Finish the dish
Return chicken to the skillet along with pineapple chunks. Cover and cook 5–7 minutes until chicken is cooked through and everything is glossy and well coated 🍍✨ - Rest & serve
Remove from heat and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- Extra veggies: Bell peppers or snap peas add color and crunch.
- Sauce boost: Stir in 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with water for a thicker glaze.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Spice option: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat 🌶️