Description

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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Ingredients

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.

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Toss the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cornstarch.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
In the same skillet, add the pineapple chunks and cook for 2 minutes, until slightly caramelized.
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

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

Notes

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.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired