Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

There’s something magical about the way sweet and savory flavors dance together in a dish—especially when it involves juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and fluffy rice. This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe is my go-to when I want a meal that feels like a vacation but comes together faster than takeout. It’s the kind of dish that makes my family pause mid-bite to say, “Oh wow, this is GOOD.” And honestly? That’s the best compliment a home cook can get.

If you’re tired of the same old chicken dinners (we’ve all been there), this recipe is your ticket to breaking the monotony. The pineapple adds a bright, tropical touch, while soy sauce and garlic keep things deeply flavorful. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning fewer dishes and more time to savor that extra glass of wine or, let’s be real, finally tackling that pile of laundry. (Or not. No judgment here.)

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Chicken and Rice

This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with perks that make it a weeknight hero:

• One-pan wonder: Less cleanup = more happiness.
• Balanced flavors: Sweet pineapple meets savory soy sauce for a crave-worthy combo.
• Meal-prep friendly: Tastes even better as leftovers (hello, lunch tomorrow!).
• Kid-approved: The subtle sweetness wins over even picky eaters.

How to Make Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cubed
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
• 1 cup jasmine rice (or basmati)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1½ cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sear the chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, and bell pepper. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Combine everything: Stir in rice, pineapple, soy sauce, honey, and broth. Return chicken to the pan.
4. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is tender.
5. Garnish and serve: Fluff with a fork, top with green onions and sesame seeds, and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Want to take this dish to the next level? Here are my pro tips:

• Use fresh pineapple if possible—it’s brighter and less syrupy than canned. (But canned works in a pinch!)
• Don’t skip the ginger. It adds a zesty kick that balances the sweetness.
• Let it rest. After cooking, leave the lid on for 5 minutes to let the rice absorb any extra liquid.

Fun story: The first time I made this, my husband—who claims to dislike fruit in savory dishes—went back for thirds. Now it’s in our regular rotation, especially when we need a taste of sunshine in the middle of a hectic week.

Pairing Suggestions

This dish is fantastic on its own, but if you’re feeling fancy, try it with:

• A crisp cucumber salad for contrast.
• A side of garlic butter roasted carrots (a family favorite!).
• A tropical mocktail or chilled white wine.

Whether you’re craving a taste of the tropics or just need a break from the usual dinner routine, this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe delivers. It’s proof that a little sweetness (and a lot of flavor) can turn an ordinary night into something special. Now, who’s ready to dig in?