Meta Info
Servings: 4
Total Time: 35 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Calories per Serving: ~420
Macros (Approx.):
Protein: 32–36g | Carbs: 42–46g | Fat: 9–11g | Fiber: 2–3g
Intro: The Sweet-Savory Dinner That Never Gets Old
This Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the kind of meal that checks all the boxes: comforting, balanced, and packed with flavor. Juicy chicken, tender rice, and sweet pineapple come together in a light savory sauce that feels satisfying without being heavy.
It’s inspired by takeout-style flavors but made with simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have. The pineapple adds brightness, the soy sauce and ginger bring depth, and the rice soaks up everything beautifully. It’s an easy one-pan style dinner that works just as well for busy weeknights as it does for meal prep.
If you’re looking for a high-protein, crowd-pleasing meal that feels a little different without being complicated, this recipe delivers.
Look at the Recipe
- Sweet pineapple paired with savory chicken
- High-protein, balanced one-bowl meal
- Easy enough for weeknights, great for leftovers
Ingredients Needed
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
How to Make Our Pineapple Chicken and Rice
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat.
- Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté the onion and red bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the rice and toast for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and pineapple. Simmer uncovered for 3–5 minutes to warm through and blend flavors.
- Finish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth.
- Serve with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or a light cucumber salad.
- Works well for meal prep lunches.
Tips & FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes — just drain it well to avoid excess liquid.
Can I swap the rice?
Absolutely. Brown rice works (increase cook time), or serve over cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
Is this kid-friendly?
Very. The sweet pineapple makes it a hit with kids.
How can I add heat?
Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes — use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
