Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the magical combination of chicken and pineapple! It’s like a sweet and savory tango on your taste buds. Seriously, when those juicy pineapple chunks meet tender, seasoned chicken, you get a burst of flavor that’s just to die for. And the best part? This Pineapple Chicken Rice is super simple and quick to whip up—perfect for busy weeknights or when I just want something delicious without a fuss. In my household, it’s a go-to recipe because it’s not only satisfying but also brings everyone together around the table. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen, too!

Ingredients List

2 cups cooked rice (I usually use jasmine or basmati for extra flavor!)
1 pound chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh is best, but canned works in a pinch)
1 bell pepper, chopped (I love using red for a pop of color!)
1 onion, chopped (sweet onion adds a nice touch)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (feel free to use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for that lovely sautéing goodness)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)

How to Prepare Pineapple Chicken Rice

Alright, let’s get cooking! This Pineapple Chicken Rice comes together in no time, so I recommend prepping all your ingredients first. Trust me, it makes the cooking process so much smoother! Now, grab your pan and let’s dive in.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want it nice and hot but not smoking. This usually takes about a minute.
Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté these beauties for about 4-5 minutes until they get soft and fragrant; oh, the smell is heavenly!
Now it’s time for the star of the show—the diced chicken! Add it to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned all over. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Make sure it’s cooked through—no one wants a chewy chicken piece!
Next, stir in the pineapple chunks and soy sauce. Let everything mingle for about 2 minutes; this is where the magic happens as the flavors combine.
Finally, add your cooked rice to the pan. Mix everything together thoroughly and let it heat through for another 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste—don’t be afraid to make it your own!

And voila! You’ve got a delicious Pineapple Chicken Rice ready to serve. It’s that easy! Just remember, if you like a bit of extra kick, throwing in some crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor even more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation—ready in just 35 minutes!
A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that excite your palate.
Healthy ingredients, packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the veggies.
One-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze (who doesn’t love that?).
Versatile—easy to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
Great for using up leftovers, making it both economical and delicious.
A crowd-pleaser that everyone in the family will adore!

Tips for Success

To really nail this Pineapple Chicken Rice, here are a few tips that I swear by! First, using day-old rice can make a huge difference—it’s firmer and won’t get mushy when you stir it all together. If you want to amp up the flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a bit of soy sauce and garlic beforehand. Also, don’t hesitate to mix in some chopped green onions or cilantro right before serving for a fresh touch! And if you like a bit of crunch, tossing in some cashews or peanuts at the end adds a delightful texture. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this delightful Pineapple Chicken Rice, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! I love pairing it with a light cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch—just toss some sliced cucumbers with a splash of rice vinegar and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. For those who enjoy a little heat, some spicy Szechuan green beans make a fantastic side, adding a kick that complements the sweetness of the pineapple. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, serve it with crispy spring rolls or egg rolls for that perfect crunchy contrast. Enjoy your meal!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Just a quick note on the nutritional information: it can vary quite a bit depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so take it with a grain of salt! While I’ve provided estimates for calories and other values, it’s always a good idea to consider your own dietary needs and preferences. Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your lifestyle—after all, cooking should be a joy, not a restriction!

FAQ Section

Got questions about Pineapple Chicken Rice? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! One common question is, can I use other proteins? Absolutely! Shrimp or tofu can be delicious substitutes if you’re looking for something different. Just cook them accordingly. Another frequent inquiry is about storage—this dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat in a pan over low heat or in the microwave. If you’re wondering about ingredient substitutions, feel free to swap the bell pepper for broccoli or snap peas for a fun twist! And remember, the sweetness of the pineapple can be adjusted—if you want it less sweet, just use fewer chunks. Happy cooking!

Learn more about sweet and sour chicken with pineapple for a delightful twist on flavors!

Pineapple Chicken Rice: 7 Reasons You’ll Love This Dish

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious blend of chicken, pineapple, and rice.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cooked rice
1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 cup pineapple chunks
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add onion and bell pepper; sauté until soft.
Add diced chicken; cook until browned.
Stir in pineapple chunks and soy sauce.
Add cooked rice; mix well and heat through.
Season with salt and pepper.

Notes

Serve hot.
Garnish with green onions if desired.
Can use leftover chicken.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Pineapple Chicken Rice

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