Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice

If you’re craving a dish that’s a little sweet, a little savory, and bursting with tropical flavors, this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice is for you! Juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and a flavorful sauce come together for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet & Savory Balance – The perfect mix of flavors.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
• One-Pan Meal – Fewer dishes, more flavor.
• Great for Meal Prep – Stays delicious for days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (1 lb, diced) – Tender and juicy.
• Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Enhances flavor.
• Garlic Powder (½ tsp) – Adds depth.
• Cornstarch (1 tbsp) – Helps crisp up the chicken.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – For frying.

For the Pineapple Sauce:

• Pineapple Chunks (1 cup, fresh or canned, drained) – Adds natural sweetness.
• Soy Sauce (¼ cup) – Provides a rich, savory base.
• Honey (2 tbsp) – Balances the flavors.
• Rice Vinegar (1 tbsp) – Adds a touch of acidity.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Boosts flavor.
• Ginger (1 tsp, grated) – Adds warmth.
• Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp, optional) – For a little heat.
• Cornstarch Slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) – Thickens the sauce.

For the Rice:

• Cooked Jasmine Rice (2 cups) – Fluffy and aromatic.
• Green Onions (¼ cup, chopped, for garnish) – Adds freshness.
• Sesame Seeds (1 tbsp, for garnish) – For crunch.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or wok
• Small bowl for sauce
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Rice cooker or pot

How to Make Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Toss the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cornstarch.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Pineapple Sauce

4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
5. In the same skillet, add the pineapple chunks and cook for 2 minutes, until slightly caramelized.
6. Pour in the sauce and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened.

Step 3: Combine & Serve

7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
8. Serve over warm jasmine rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

What to Serve with Pineapple Chicken and Rice

• Steamed Broccoli – A fresh, green side.
• Cucumber Salad – Light and refreshing.
• Spring Rolls – For a full meal experience.

Tips for the Best Pineapple Chicken

• Use Fresh Pineapple – If possible, for the best flavor.
• Cornstarch is Key – It helps crisp up the chicken and thickens the sauce.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook chicken in batches for even browning.

Storing & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will be juicier and just as flavorful.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

What’s the best rice to use?
Jasmine rice is ideal, but basmati or brown rice work too.

Conclusion

This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or prepping meals for the week, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!

Try it out and let me know how you like it!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 380 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 45g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 600mg

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