Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Category: Inspiring Dinner Ideas

Make this one-pan dinner with chicken, pineapple and rice in 40 minutes. Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors for a quick family meal.
Sarah
Created By Sarah John
Updated on Sat, 25 Jan 2025 16:54:06 GMT
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The fragrant blend of sweet pineapple and tender chicken transforms simple jasmine rice into an irresistible tropical feast. This one-pan wonder combines juicy chicken pieces with caramelized pineapple chunks, creating a perfect harmony of flavors that brings sunshine to your dinner table.

Making this recipe reminds me of summer evenings in Hawaii, where the combination of fresh pineapple and savory chicken is a staple. The key is allowing the pineapple to caramelize slightly, releasing its natural sugars.

Essential Ingredients

  • Fresh pineapple provides bright acidity - canned works but fresh delivers superior caramelization
  • Jasmine rice absorbs flavors better than regular white rice - its floral notes enhance the dish
  • Fresh ginger adds warmth - grate it just before cooking for maximum impact

Crafting Your Tropical Masterpiece

Perfect Rice Foundation
Rinse jasmine rice until water runs clear
Toast rice briefly in pan before adding liquid
Let steam gather 10 minutes after cooking
Chicken Preparation
Cut uniform pieces for even cooking
Season liberally before cooking
Sear until golden but not fully cooked
Pineapple Magic
Sear pineapple chunks until lightly caramelized for deeper flavor
Don't overcrowd pan to prevent steaming
Reserve some fresh pieces for garnish
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My Thai grandmother taught me to toast the rice first - it prevents sticking and adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the sweet pineapple perfectly.

Creating the Perfect Balance

The key lies in layering flavors: first building the savory base with chicken and aromatics, then adding pineapple's sweetness gradually.

Mastering the One-Pan Method

Cooking everything in sequence allows flavors to build - each ingredient picks up delicious caramelized bits from the previous one.

Rice Perfection Tips

Let the rice rest after cooking. This final steaming step ensures fluffy, separate grains that carry all the wonderful flavors.

Professional Chef Tips

Cut pineapple into equal-sized chunks for even caramelization

Reserve pineapple juice to deglaze the pan

Toast sesame seeds until fragrant before garnishing

Easy Pineapple Chicken Recipe Save
Easy Pineapple Chicken Recipe | kitchenscroll.com

After years of perfecting this recipe at my family's restaurant, I've found the magic lies in timing - especially when caramelizing the pineapple. When the sweet aroma of pineapple meets ginger and soy, you know you're moments away from a truly memorable meal.

Common Questions About Cooking

→ What rice works best?
Jasmine rice is ideal, but any long-grain white rice works fine. Brown rice needs extra cooking time.
→ Can I meal prep this?
Yes, stores well for 3 days. Keep in fridge and reheat portions with a splash of water.
→ Fresh or canned pineapple?
Both work great. If using canned, drain well. Fresh gives better texture and flavor.
→ How to prevent sticky rice?
Don't peek while cooking, keep heat low, and follow the liquid ratio exactly.
→ Can I add vegetables?
Yes, add snow peas, carrots or broccoli with the bell peppers.

Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice

One-pan dinner combining juicy chicken, sweet pineapple and rice. Ready in 40 minutes for an easy weeknight meal.

Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cooking Duration
30 minutes
Total Time Required
40 minutes
Created By: Sarah John

Recipe Category: Dinner Delights

Skill Level Required: Ideal for Beginners

Cuisine Style: Asian

Recipe Output: 4 Number of Servings

Dietary Preferences: Gluten-Free, No Dairy

What You'll Gather

→ Proteins & Fruits

Contains 01 items 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
Contains 02 items 1 cup pineapple, cubed

→ Produce

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

→ Pantry

Contains 08 items 1 cup jasmine rice
Contains 09 items 2 cups chicken broth
Contains 10 items 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Contains 11 items 1 tablespoon olive oil
Contains 12 items 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Contains 13 items Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until golden brown

Step 02

Sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened. Add pineapple and cook for 2 minutes

Step 03

Add jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring to boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 18-20 minutes

Step 04

Return chicken to skillet, mix well. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds

Important Tips

  1. Use fresh pineapple for best results

Essential Tools

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and knife

Allergen Guidance

Double-check ingredients for allergens and consult a health expert if needed.
  • Contains soy

Nutrition Details (per serving)

This nutrition info is provided as a guide and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 350
  • Fat Amount: ~
  • Carbohydrates: ~
  • Protein Amount: ~