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Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight

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Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight is a vibrant, sweet, and savory dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Featuring tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and perfectly seasoned rice, this one-pan meal is a perfect blend of fresh flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at a summer gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Sweet & Savory Balance – The natural sweetness of pineapple pairs beautifully with seasoned chicken.
  • One-Pan Convenience – Easy cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet.
  • Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
  • Nutritious & Filling – Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich rice, and fresh fruit.
  • Customizable – Easily switch up the ingredients to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (cubed)
  • Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
  • Jasmine or basmati rice
  • Chicken broth
  • Coconut milk (optional for extra tropical flavor)
  • Soy sauce
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Ginger (grated)
  • Honey or brown sugar
  • Red bell pepper (diced)
  • Green onions (chopped)
  • Lime juice
  • Sesame oil or olive oil
  • Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
  • Toasted coconut or chopped cashews (for garnish)

Directions

this recipe
  1. Sauté the Chicken – Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables – In the same skillet, add red bell pepper, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the Rice & Liquid – Stir in the rice, chicken broth, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Return the Chicken & Pineapple – Add the cooked chicken and pineapple chunks. Cover and let simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender.
  5. Finish with Lime & Garnish – Stir in lime juice and top with green onions, toasted coconut, or cashews. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes.
  • Extra Veggies – Toss in peas, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition.
  • Protein Swap – Use shrimp, tofu, or pork instead of chicken.
  • Low-Carb Option – Substitute cauliflower rice for regular rice.
  • Teriyaki Twist – Replace soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for extra sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or microwave in 30-second intervals.
  • Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but increase the cooking time by about 10 minutes and add extra broth if needed.

Do I have to use coconut milk?

No, you can substitute it with more chicken broth or water.

Can I use frozen pineapple?

Yes! Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or garlic bread pairs well.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prep the ingredients and cook just before serving for the best texture.

What’s the best way to keep the rice from getting mushy?

Use the right rice-to-liquid ratio and avoid stirring too much while cooking.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes! Just reduce the broth and add the rice toward the end of cooking.

How do I make the chicken extra flavorful?

Marinate the chicken in soy sauce, lime juice, and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sauté the chicken first, then cook everything on high pressure for 5 minutes with a natural release.

Conclusion

Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight is a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that brings a taste of the tropics to your kitchen. With its sweet and savory balance, quick prep time, and vibrant presentation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a delicious escape with every bite!

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Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Tropical, Asian Fusion
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Description

This Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight is a vibrant, sweet-savory dish bursting with island flavors! Juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and fluffy rice come together in a tangy, slightly spicy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a taste of the tropics any time!

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Tropical Sauce:

  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from canned pineapple or fresh)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha or red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken)

For the Rice:

  • 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or brown rice)
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional, for extra tropical flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For Garnish:

  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 2 tablespoons toasted coconut flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • Lime wedges

 

Instructions

1. Marinate & Cook the Chicken:

  1. In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with soy sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cornstarch. Let sit for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
  3. Add chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

2. Make the Tropical Sauce:

  1. In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed.
  2. Stir in pineapple chunks, garlic, and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using). Stir well.
  4. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.

3. Combine & Serve:

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing it in the sauce. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until fully coated.
  2. Serve over warm jasmine rice (cooked with coconut milk for extra flavor).
  3. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, toasted coconut flakes, and a squeeze of lime.

Notes

  • Protein Swap: Try shrimp, tofu, or pork instead of chicken.
  • Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots would be great additions.
  • Make it Spicier: Add more sriracha or diced jalapeños.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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