Name: Pineapple Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into pieces; 2 tbsp olive or sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/3 cup pineapple juice; 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp water; 1.5 cups cooked rice; 1 cup pineapple chunks; 1/2 red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; Sesame seeds for topping; Crushed red pepper, optional

Jump to Recipe

Pineapple Chicken brings together juicy chicken, tender rice, and bright tropical flavor in one satisfying meal. This sweet-forward yet balanced dinner comes together fast, tastes comforting, and fits perfectly into a busy schedule. With simple pantry ingredients and one pan, Pineapple Chicken delivers a reliable dinner that feels special without extra work. If you enjoy meals that feel cozy yet fresh, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

Story

I started making Pineapple Chicken on nights when I wanted something warm and filling but not heavy. The mix of savory soy sauce and natural pineapple sweetness always felt comforting, especially when served over rice. Over time, Pineapple Chicken became my go-to when I needed a one pan dinner that pleased everyone at the table. The dish cooks quickly, stores well, and tastes even better the next day. Because it balances sweet and salty so naturally, Pineapple Chicken works beautifully as an easy weeknight recipe that still feels like a tropical meal.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/3 cup pineapple juice
2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
1.5 cups cooked rice
1 cup pineapple chunks
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup chopped green onions
Sesame seeds for topping
Crushed red pepper, optional

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Cut the chicken into even pieces so it cooks evenly, mince the garlic, dice the bell pepper, and measure all sauce ingredients ahead of time to keep the cooking process smooth and quick.

Cooking Instructions

Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat, cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked, then remove it briefly while garlic cooks until fragrant; add soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, and vinegar, simmer gently, stir in the cornstarch mixture until thickened, return the chicken, add pineapple and bell pepper, fold in rice, and cook until everything is hot and coated.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking the chicken, since crowded pieces steam instead of browning and reduce the rich flavor that makes this sweet and savory chicken stand out.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Use fresh pineapple when possible for brighter flavor, toast sesame seeds lightly before serving, and finish with green onions to add contrast and freshness.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Pineapple Chicken hot straight from the pan, either on its own or alongside extra steamed vegetables for a balanced chicken and rice dinner.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, then reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken proves that simple ingredients can still deliver bold flavor and comfort. With minimal prep and fast cooking, this recipe fits perfectly into real life while still feeling fun and satisfying. Try it once, and it will quickly earn a regular place on your dinner menu.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work very well and often stay juicier, making them a great alternative without changing cooking time much.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

This dish freezes best without rice, since rice can turn soft after thawing, so freeze only the chicken and sauce if needed.

Can I make this less sweet?

You can reduce the honey slightly or increase vinegar to adjust the balance while keeping the tropical flavor intact.