Name: Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired / Tropical Fusion
Ingredients: 450 g / 1 lb chicken breast, cubed; 150 g / 1 cup pineapple, cubed; 15 ml / 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 190 g / 1 cup jasmine rice; 480 ml / 2 cups chicken broth; 15 ml / 1 tbsp soy sauce; 5 g / 1 tsp grated ginger; Salt and pepper, to taste; 25 g / 1/4 cup green onions, sliced; 10 g / 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Jump to Recipe

If your taste buds are begging for a vacation but your wallet says “not today,” this Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is the next best thing. Juicy pineapple, tender chicken, and fluffy jasmine rice come together in a dish that’s both comforting and bright. It’s the kind of tropical chicken recipe that transports you straight to a breezy beachside dinner—no passport required.

We all need easy weeknight meals that still feel special, and this one checks all the boxes. It’s a sweet and savory dinner that’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and cook-friendly (because honestly, who has time for complicated steps on a Tuesday?). With just one skillet and under an hour, you’ll have a dish that smells amazing, looks vibrant, and tastes even better.

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or just want a meal that feels a little more exciting than plain chicken and rice, this jasmine rice with pineapple twist will quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Bursting with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors
One-skillet recipe = easy cleanup
Balanced meal with protein, veggies, and carbs in one bowl
A little tropical getaway right at your dinner table

Ingredients You’ll Need

450 g / 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
150 g / 1 cup pineapple, cubed
15 ml / 1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
190 g / 1 cup jasmine rice
480 ml / 2 cups chicken broth
15 ml / 1 tablespoon soy sauce
5 g / 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Salt and pepper to taste
25 g / ¼ cup green onions, sliced
10 g / 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Directions

Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken breast and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add the Pineapple
Stir in cubed pineapple and cook for 2 minutes to let the natural sugars caramelize.
Cook the Rice
Add jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir, bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, until rice is tender.
Bring It Together
Return chicken to the skillet, mixing until evenly coated with pineapple and sauce. Heat through for 2–3 minutes.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Results

Caramelize the pineapple: Don’t rush this step—it deepens the flavor.
Rice matters: Jasmine rice brings that fluffy texture and subtle fragrance that make this dish shine.
Make it your own: Add chili flakes for heat or swap bell pepper for zucchini if that’s what’s in the fridge.
Meal-prep friendly: This recipe reheats beautifully, so make a double batch if you want easy lunches.

And don’t worry if your skillet looks a little sticky after cooking pineapple—that’s where all the flavor magic happens!

A Little Story from My Kitchen

The first time I made this Pineapple Chicken and Rice, it was for a family dinner when my parents came to visit. I’ll be honest—I was nervous about serving pineapple in a savory dish. My dad’s a “meat and potatoes” kind of guy, and I thought he might raise an eyebrow.

But to my surprise, he went back for seconds before I even sat down. He said it reminded him of vacation dinners in Hawaii, where sweet and savory flavors just work. That night turned into one of those meals where everyone lingers around the table, talking and laughing long after the plates were cleared. And ever since, this recipe has been a little taste of sunshine for us.

What to Serve with Pineapple Chicken and Rice

This dish is hearty on its own, but if you’re making a full spread:

Asian cucumber salad for a cool, refreshing bite
Steamed broccoli or bok choy for extra greens
Shrimp spring rolls as a light appetizer
Chilled iced tea or pineapple spritzer to keep the tropical theme going

If you’re entertaining, serve this family-style in a big skillet and let everyone help themselves—it’s casual, fun, and impressive without the fuss.

How to Store Leftovers

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet with a splash of broth to keep rice fluffy.
Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Meal prep tip: Divide into single-serve containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.

The rice actually absorbs even more flavor overnight, so don’t be surprised if your leftovers taste even better the next day.

FAQs About Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes! Just drain it well so the dish doesn’t get watery.

Can I substitute jasmine rice?

Absolutely. Basmati or long-grain rice works too, though jasmine has that lovely fragrance.

Is this dish spicy?

Not at all. If you want heat, toss in a little sriracha or red pepper flakes.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes! Thighs add extra juiciness and hold up well in one-skillet meals.

Bringing It All Together

When the week feels long and you’re craving something bright and flavorful, this Pineapple Chicken and Rice delivers. It’s simple enough for a Tuesday but special enough to serve on a Saturday when friends come over. The sweetness of pineapple, the savory notes of chicken and soy, and the cozy texture of jasmine rice with pineapple make every bite a little celebration.

So next time you want a meal that’s both comforting and uplifting, skip the takeout menu and let this tropical chicken recipe bring a little sunshine to your kitchen.

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