Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into a tropical-inspired dinner that balances sweet, savory, and umami flavors perfectly. The combination of tender chicken pieces with juicy pineapple creates a delightful contrast that makes weeknight dinners feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

I first created this recipe when trying to recreate a dish I enjoyed at a Hawaiian restaurant. My family was immediately hooked, and it has since become our go-to meal whenever we need a little tropical escape from our routine dinners.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: providing protein and taking on the sweet and savory flavors beautifully
• Jasmine rice: absorbing all the delicious flavors while adding a fragrant aroma
• Pineapple chunks: bringing natural sweetness and tropical flavor that caramelizes slightly when cooked
• Bell peppers: adding vibrant color, vitamin C, and a subtle crunch
• Onion and garlic: creating an aromatic base that enhances all other flavors
• Soy sauce: delivering umami depth and saltiness that balances the sweet components
• Honey or brown sugar: caramelizing slightly to enhance the natural sweetness of pineapple
• Fresh ginger: offering warming spice that pairs perfectly with the tropical elements

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Season bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper before browning them in olive oil for 5-7 minutes. The key is getting a good sear on all sides while ensuring the chicken is just cooked through. This creates a flavor foundation for the entire dish. Remove the chicken and set aside to prevent overcooking.

Sauté the Vegetables:

Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the same pan, taking advantage of the flavorful bits left from cooking the chicken. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften but still maintain some texture. The onions should become translucent while the peppers should retain a slight crispness.

Create the Flavor Base:

Add pineapple chunks, soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, and grated ginger to the vegetables. Allow this mixture to simmer briefly, letting the pineapple release its juices and the sugar to begin caramelizing. This creates a sweet-savory sauce that will flavor the rice perfectly.

Cook the Rice:

Add uncooked rice directly to the skillet followed by chicken broth. This method allows the rice to absorb all the flavors as it cooks. Bring everything to a boil before reducing to a simmer. Cover tightly and cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid, creating a flavorful foundation.

Finish the Dish:

Once the rice is fully cooked, gently fold the browned chicken back into the mixture. This prevents the chicken from becoming overcooked while still allowing it to warm through and absorb some of the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

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The pineapple is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power when I accidentally added more than called for one evening. The extra sweetness created an incredible caramelization that my family now insists is the only way to make it. Sometimes the best cooking discoveries happen by chance.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice stores beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop and deepen overnight, making it an excellent meal prep option. To reheat, add a small splash of water or broth before microwaving to restore moisture. For best results, reheat gently to prevent the chicken from becoming tough or dry.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptation based on what you have available. Brown rice can replace jasmine rice for added fiber, though you'll need to adjust cooking time to about 35-40 minutes. Pork or shrimp work wonderfully in place of chicken. Vegetarians can substitute firm tofu or simply increase the vegetables for a satisfying meatless option. Canned pineapple works perfectly when fresh isn't available, just be sure to drain it well.

Perfect Pairings

While this dish stands alone as a complete meal, a few simple sides can elevate it further. A crisp cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing provides refreshing contrast to the warm, sweet-savory flavors. For added color and nutrition, serve with steamed broccoli or snap peas. If you enjoy heat, a side of sriracha or chili garlic sauce allows everyone to adjust spiciness to their preference.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple. Just make sure it’s well-drained to prevent excess liquid in the dish.

→ What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work well. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

→ Can I substitute jasmine rice?

Yes, you can use other types of rice like basmati or brown rice. Adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.

→ How can I add extra spice?

You can add chili flakes, sriracha, or a splash of hot sauce to enhance the heat level of the dish.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, replace the chicken with tofu or more vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.