There’s something truly magical about the combination of sweet and savory flavors in a dish, and this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a perfect example. The juicy, caramelized pineapple pairs beautifully with tender chicken and perfectly seasoned rice, creating a dish that is both satisfying and full of vibrant flavors.

This recipe brings a tropical twist to your dinner table, making every bite feel like a mini getaway. It’s perfect for busy weeknights because it’s easy to make, yet special enough to serve when you want to impress your family or guests. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means fewer dishes to clean—always a bonus!

If you’re a fan of meals that balance sweetness with a touch of savory goodness, this is the recipe for you. The natural sweetness from the pineapple is enhanced by a blend of spices and sauces, giving the dish a deep, rich flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients.
• One-pan meal – Less cleanup and more convenience.
• Perfectly balanced flavors – The sweetness of pineapple complements the savory chicken and rice beautifully.
• Great for meal prep – Stores well for leftovers, making busy days easier.
• Family-friendly – A crowd-pleasing dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken and Rice:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed
• 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained if using canned)
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup green bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup carrots, finely diced
• ½ cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

For the Sauce:

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ¼ cup pineapple juice (reserved from canned pineapple or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

How to Make Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or pan over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly golden.

Drizzle in soy sauce to deepen the flavor and stir well. Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables and Rice

In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the red and green bell peppers, carrots, and pineapple chunks. Sauté for about 2 minutes, just until the veggies start to soften.

Stir in the rinsed jasmine rice and let it toast for about 30 seconds to 1 minute to enhance the flavor. Then, pour in the chicken broth, bring to a gentle simmer, and reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

While the rice is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, pineapple juice, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once the rice is cooked, add the cooked chicken back into the pan. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and gently stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

• Use fresh pineapple for extra flavor – If you have the time, fresh pineapple will add even more natural sweetness and a slight tang.
• Don’t skip rinsing the rice – This removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming sticky.
• Adjust sweetness to taste – If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a little more honey. For a more savory balance, reduce the honey slightly.
• Add more veggies – Feel free to toss in peas, broccoli, or snap peas for extra color and nutrients.
• Make it spicy – If you like heat, add a dash of sriracha or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian-inspired
• Diet: Gluten-Free (if using tamari instead of soy sauce)

Notes

• If you want a heartier meal, serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~380
• Protein: ~30g
• Carbohydrates: ~50g
• Fat: ~8g
• Fiber: ~4g
• Sugar: ~12g

(Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes! However, brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes and add a little extra broth if needed.

What can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute tofu, shrimp, or even turkey for a different protein option. If using tofu, make sure to press it first for the best texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook everything in advance and reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of broth to refresh the flavors.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating:

• Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water.
• Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice, here are a few more delicious recipes you might enjoy:

• Sweet and Sour Chicken
• Pineapple Chicken and Rice: A Tropical Culinary Delight
• Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan: A Tropical Escape for Dinner
• Pineapple Chicken and Rice – A Sweet and Savory Delight

Conclusion

This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a perfect blend of flavors that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a quick and flavorful meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

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