Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan meal – Less cleanup and easy preparation.
Sweet and savory – The combination of pineapple, soy sauce, and ginger creates an irresistible flavor.
Quick and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Family-friendly – A dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Customizable – Adjust the ingredients to fit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound chicken breast, cubed
1 cup pineapple, cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Directions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
Add the pineapple and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Stir in the jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.
Return the chicken to the skillet, mix well, and heat through.
Serve garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for some heat.
Vegetarian Version – Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas.
Coconut Rice – Replace half of the chicken broth with coconut milk for a richer flavor.
Extra Veggies – Add snap peas, carrots, or broccoli for more texture and nutrients.
Hawaiian Style – Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a more tropical twist.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes! Just make sure to drain the juice before adding it to the dish.

2. What type of rice works best?

Jasmine rice is ideal for this recipe, but you can also use basmati or long-grain white rice.

3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook the chicken and veggies first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours.

4. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.

5. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but increase the cooking time to about 40 minutes and add a bit more broth if needed.

6. What protein can I use instead of chicken?

Shrimp, pork, or tofu are great substitutes.

7. Can I add nuts for crunch?

Yes! Cashews or sliced almonds add a nice texture and flavor.

8. What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or egg rolls.

9. How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Make sure to measure the broth correctly and avoid stirring the rice too much while cooking.

10. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Cook everything ahead and reheat before serving. It tastes even better the next day!

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. With sweet pineapple, savory chicken, and fragrant rice, this dish is perfect for busy nights or when you want something flavorful and comforting. Try it out, and enjoy a new family favorite!