Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delightful fusion of savory and sweet flavors that offers a perfect balance of tenderness, tang, and tropical sweetness.

The tender Chicken is glazed with a delectable pineapple honey Dijon sauce and served over fluffy rice, making it an easy yet flavorful meal. With a handful of common ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, this recipe proves that simplicity can lead to remarkable results.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish can be paired with a side of steamed broccoli or a medley of seasonal vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

What Makes Pineapple Chicken and Rice So Irresistible?

The magic of Pineapple Chicken and Rice lies in the impeccable balance of flavors. The natural sweetness of pineapple melds harmoniously with the savory depth of the Chicken, creating a dish that is both comforting and exciting to the taste buds. The honey Dijon sauce adds an additional layer of richness and tang, elevating the entire dish.

Not only is this dish incredibly flavorful, but it is also exceptionally easy to prepare, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility—while it can be made exactly as written, you can swap out ingredients to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or what you have on hand. From adding more vegetables to experimenting with different spices, the possibilities are endless.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Pineapple Chicken and Rice

To create the perfect Pineapple Chicken and Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 and a half pounds of boneless chicken breasts: The Chicken serves as the tender protein base of the dish. You can also use thighs for a juicier option.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A subtle herb that complements the savory notes of the Chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper: Adds a hint of warmth and complexity to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: To brown the Chicken and create a flavorful base for the sauce.
• 1 can (20 oz) sliced pineapple, juice reserved – The pineapple adds both sweetness and texture. The juice is used for the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: This helps thicken the sauce and gives it a rich, velvety texture.
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy sharpness that pairs beautifully with the honey.
• 1/4 cup honey: Brings natural sweetness and balances the tang of the mustard.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic depth to the sauce.
• 4 servings of cooked rice: The perfect base to absorb the flavorful sauce and tender Chicken.

How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the boneless chicken breasts with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This will ensure the Chicken is flavorful from the inside out.
2. Brown the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Prepare the Pineapple: Drain the pineapple slices and set them aside. Be sure to reserve the juice from the can as you’ll need it for the sauce.
4. Make the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with 2 ounces of the reserved pineapple juice. Mix well and set aside.
5. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the remaining pineapple juice with the Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. This mixture will become the sweet and tangy glaze that coats the Chicken.
6. Combine Sauce and Chicken: Return the browned Chicken to the skillet and pour the Dijon-pineapple sauce over it. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes. This will allow the Chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
7. Thicken the Sauce: Once the Chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the sauce and bring it to a boil, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to thicken the sauce.
8. Return the Chicken to the Pan: Place the Chicken back into the pan and flip it in the sauce to coat it evenly with the thickened glaze.
9. Add the pineapple: Nestle the pineapple slices around the Chicken in the pan, ensuring the fruit is heated through for about 2-3 minutes. This will allow the pineapple to warm up and soften slightly without losing its texture.
10. Serve Over Rice: Once the pineapple is heated and the Chicken is perfectly coated in sauce, serve it over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. Spoon some extra sauce and pineapple slices over the top for an extra burst of flavor.

Variations of Pineapple Chicken and Rice to Try

While the classic Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delight on its own, there are many ways to customize this dish to suit your tastes.

• Tropical Twists: Add mango or shredded coconut for an even more tropical flair. A squeeze of lime over the top before serving can also brighten the dish.
• Spicy Kick: For those who prefer a bit of heat, introduce chili flakes, fresh chili, or a splash of hot sauce to the pineapple chicken rice for a spicy contrast to the sweet pineapple.
• Vegan or Vegetarian Versions: Swap the Chicken for tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative. These protein sources absorb the sauce beautifully and offer a satisfying texture.

Serving Suggestions

For families with younger kids, cut the Chicken and pineapple into bite-sized pieces, making it easier for little hands to grab. Combine everything in a bowl and mix well for a fun, flavorful meal that kids will love. If you want to make this meal a bit more special, try assembling a Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl:

1. Start by adding a generous portion of cooked rice to a bowl.
2. Chop the Chicken and pineapple into bite-sized pieces.
3. Top the rice with the Chicken, pineapple, and a drizzle of the savory sauce.

This makes for a fun, personalized meal that’s both delicious and easy to serve.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pineapple Chicken and Rice Every Time

• Avoid Overcooking the Chicken: To keep the chicken tender and juicy, ensure it’s not cooked for too long. Once it’s golden brown on the outside and no longer pink in the center, remove it from the heat.
• Get Perfect Rice: Cook the rice according to the package instructions, ensuring it’s light and fluffy. You can also use jasmine or basmati rice for added aroma and texture.
• Prevent Mushy Pineapple: Don’t overcook the pineapple; simply heat it gently in the pan with the Chicken. This will help it retain its shape and freshness without becoming mushy.
• Flavor Hacks: Add slivered almonds or cashews for a crunchy contrast. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can brighten the dish, and a dash of soy sauce can deepen the flavor profile.

Related Recipes

• Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
• Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage
• Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet
• Pineapple Shrimp Stir-Fry
• Oven-Roasted Cauliflower Steak

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen pineapple. Just be sure to thaw it beforehand and drain any excess water to avoid diluting the sauce.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to prevent overcooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes, Pineapple Chicken and Rice is great for meal prepping. Prepare the Chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Reheat before serving over freshly cooked rice.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that brings together the best of sweet and savory flavors in a single bowl. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a dinner party, this dish can be tailored to suit a variety of tastes. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless opportunities for customization, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and get creative with your variations—the possibilities are limitless!