Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Accueil / Creative Fusions / Pineapple Chicken and Rice: Sweet, Savory, and Simple

This pineapple chicken and rice recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, made with tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and a tangy honey mustard glaze served over fluffy rice. A simple weeknight dinner bursting with tropical flavor!

There’s something magical about the combo of sweet pineapple and savory chicken. When you add a touch of garlic, a drizzle of honey, and serve it all over warm, steamy rice? That’s dinner bliss. This pineapple chicken and rice recipe is one of those meals that makes everyone at the table happy, and it doesn’t require a stack of dishes or hours of prep.

If you love this pineapple chicken and rice recipe, you’ll probably enjoy our flavorful chicken and pineapple fried rice for a more stir-fry-inspired twist.

It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but special enough for a casual weekend get-together. Plus, it uses pantry staples and one can of pineapple slices to deliver a satisfying, tropical-inspired dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned kitchen pro, this dish is friendly, flexible, and full of flavor.

Let’s dive into the ingredients and start cooking!

Table of contents

Main Ingredients for Pineapple Chicken and Rice (and Why They Matter)
Additional Ingredients and Swaps
Expert Tips for Perfect Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Recommended Cooking Techniques
Step-by-Step Instructions
Additional Guide: Variations and Special Touches
Frequently Asked Questions About Pineapple Chicken and Rice
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Main Ingredients for Pineapple Chicken and Rice (and Why They Matter)

To make this pineapple chicken and rice dish shine, you’ll need just a few fresh and flavorful ingredients:

Boneless Chicken Breasts (1½ lbs): Tender and lean, chicken breasts are perfect for soaking up the sweet and tangy sauce.
Dried Thyme (1 tsp): Adds a lovely herbal note that complements both the chicken and pineapple.
Salt (½ tsp) & Black Pepper (⅛ tsp): Simple seasoning goes a long way in building foundational flavor.
Vegetable Oil (1 tbsp): Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
Canned Pineapple Slices (1 can, 20 oz): The star ingredient! Don’t forget to save the juice, it becomes part of the sauce.
Cornstarch (1 tbsp): Helps thicken the sauce so it clings to every bite.
Dijon Mustard (¼ cup): Brings tanginess and depth to balance the sweet honey and pineapple.
Honey (¼ cup): Natural sweetness that complements the pineapple and mellows out the mustard.
Garlic Cloves (2, minced): Adds savory richness and a little bite.
Cooked Rice (4 servings): The base that ties everything together. Fluffy white rice is a classic pairing here.

You can stretch the sauce with a bit of chicken broth, but opt for low-sodium… or even try making your own using this easy chicken broth rice cooker method to boost flavor naturally.

Each ingredient plays its part to deliver that perfect harmony of flavors.

Additional Ingredients and Swaps

Want to mix it up a little? Here are some optional or alternative ingredients that still keep this pineapple chicken and rice recipe on track:

Chicken Thighs: Prefer dark meat? Thighs are juicy and flavorful and work just as well.
Brown Rice or Jasmine Rice: Adds a nuttier flavor or fragrant twist.
Soy Sauce: A splash of soy can deepen the umami flavors.
Red Bell Peppers: For color, crunch, and extra nutrition.
Green Onions: Sprinkle on top for a fresh finish.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Want a kick? Just a pinch will do.
Coconut Oil: Swap for vegetable oil for a subtle coconut flavor boost, or go all-in on tropical vibes with this creamy coconut chicken and rice variation.

Feel free to get creative, especially with what’s already in your fridge or pantry.

Expert Tips for Perfect Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Cooking this pineapple chicken and rice dish doesn’t have to be complicated, but these tips can help make it foolproof:

Prep Everything First: Have your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go. It makes the process smoother and stress-free.
Dry the Chicken Before Cooking: Patting the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning helps it brown better in the skillet.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If the chicken pieces are too close together, they’ll steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if needed.
Deglaze the Pan: After browning the chicken, pour a little pineapple juice into the pan to loosen up the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
Taste the Sauce Before Thickening: Give it a quick taste after mixing the honey, mustard, and pineapple juice. You can always adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking.
Use Low-Sodium Broth (Optional): If you want a saucier dish, you can stretch the sauce with a bit of chicken broth, but opt for low-sodium so it doesn’t get too salty.
Fresh Pineapple? Sure!: If you’ve got a ripe pineapple on hand, go ahead and use it. Just reserve about ½ cup of juice if possible, or substitute with store-bought pineapple juice.

This dish reheats well and is great for meal prep… just like our dreamy Instant Pot chicken and rice, which makes weekday meals a breeze.

Recommended Cooking Techniques

To get the most out of this pineapple chicken and rice recipe, here are a few trusty techniques:

Searing: Brown the chicken on both sides to lock in flavor and add texture.
Simmering: Let the sauce thicken slowly over medium-low heat. Rushing can lead to lumps or burned bits.
Layering: Serve rice first, then spoon the chicken and pineapple on top, finishing with sauce.
Garnishing: Sprinkle with green onions, sesame seeds, or a bit of fresh cilantro for that final touch.

These simple methods make all the difference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts with dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together reserved pineapple juice, cornstarch, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic.
Cook the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 2–3 minutes.
Combine: Return chicken to the skillet. Add pineapple slices and spoon sauce over everything. Let it cook together for 2–3 more minutes.
Serve: Spoon chicken and pineapple over cooked rice and drizzle with extra sauce. Enjoy while warm!

Additional Guide: Variations and Special Touches

There’s room for fun with this pineapple chicken and rice recipe. Try these twists:

Hawaiian Style: Add a handful of chopped red bell pepper and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of sriracha or hot sauce to the glaze, or for a bolder Southern spin, check out our Mississippi chicken made in the Instant Pot.
Grill Option: Instead of cooking in a skillet, grill the chicken and pineapple slices for a smoky depth.
Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats well. Store in airtight containers and enjoy throughout the week.
Slow Cooker Method: Combine all ingredients (except rice) and cook on low for 4–6 hours, then thicken the sauce on the stovetop if needed, or try our comforting dump-and-bake chicken parmesan casserole for another fuss-free favorite.

Whether you stick to the basics or add your personal flair, it’s bound to be a winner.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pineapple Chicken and Rice

What kind of rice works best?

White rice is the classic choice, but jasmine, basmati, or even brown rice all work beautifully.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The sweet and savory flavors are usually a big hit with kids. You can even cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces before cooking.
Or if you’re working with chicken legs, try our tender chicken legs in the Instant Pot recipe for a time-saving alternative.

Conclusion

There you have it, an easy, flavorful pineapple chicken and rice recipe that brings the taste of the tropics right to your dinner table. It’s the kind of meal that feels both comforting and just a little bit special.

If you’re in the mood for something traditional, don’t miss our fragrant Syrian chicken and rice dish, it’s comfort food at its finest.

With minimal prep, flexible ingredients, and a sauce that’ll have everyone asking for seconds, it’s a true weeknight hero.

I hope you give this recipe a try and make it your own. If you do, let me know how it turns out! I’d love to hear your twists and tips.

From my Florida kitchen to yours, happy cooking!