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Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Pineapple Chicken and Rice for a Sweet Savory Dinner Delight

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe balances sweet and savory flavors, ready in just 20 minutes for a delightful dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Chicken, diced Chicken thighs can add extra juiciness.
  • 1 tablespoon Oil Any cooking oil will do.
  • Salt and Pepper Adjust to taste.
For the Rice Base
  • 2 cups Cooked Rice White, jasmine, or brown rice all work.
For the Sweet and Savory Sauce
  • 1 cup Pineapple Chunks Canned pineapple is a convenient option.
  • 1/2 cup Pineapple Juice Use juice from canned pineapple for extra flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce Opt for low-sodium for a healthier choice.
  • 2 tablespoons Honey or Brown Sugar Feel free to try maple syrup for a different twist.
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Whisk well to prevent clumping.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Use fresh for optimal taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Grated Ginger Optional; skip if not on hand.
For the Finishing Touch
  • Green Onions or Sesame Seeds For garnish.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Medium bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season 1 pound of diced chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Sauté the chicken for about 5–7 minutes, or until it reaches a golden-brown color and is fully cooked through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup of pineapple juice, ¼ cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey or brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger if using. Whisk these ingredients together for about 1–2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
  3. Return the skillet to medium heat, then add 1 cup of pineapple chunks to the pan. Pour the prepared sauce over the pineapple and stir gently to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3–5 minutes, staying attentive as it begins to thicken and bubble.
  4. Once the sauce has thickened, return the sautéed chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated in the glossy sauce. Serve the Pineapple Chicken over 2 cups of warm cooked rice, garnishing with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingsCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-friendly bags or containers for up to 3 months.

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