Go Back
A vibrant plate of pineapple chicken and rice, showcasing colorful ingredients and a delicious glaze.

Tropical Pineapple Chicken and Rice

This one-pan Tropical Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish creates a flavorful meal with sweet and savory notes, perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 can pineapple chunks (20-ounce), drained (or 1.5-2 cups fresh chopped pineapple)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (jasmine or basmati recommended)
  • 1 red or yellow bell pepper chopped
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (use Tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil (e.g., vegetable, canola)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 scallions chopped, for garnish
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Lid

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Pat the chicken pieces dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Sear the chicken in a large skillet or wok with cooking oil until golden brown on all sides, then set aside.
  3. Add onion and bell peppers to the skillet and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened; stir in minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute.
  4. Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar, then bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits.
  5. Stir in uncooked rice and drained pineapple chunks, then nestle the seared chicken back into the pan.
  6. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  7. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
  8. Drizzle with sesame oil, and garnish with chopped scallions and cilantro before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, toast the uncooked rice for a few minutes before adding the liquids.