If you're looking for a quick, easy, and flavorful dinner, this Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the perfect choice! The combination of juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and a savory-sweet sauce makes this dish absolutely irresistible. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a sticky, slightly tangy sauce, while fluffy rice soaks up all the delicious flavors.

This one-pan meal is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with tropical flavors, making it a great option for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a family gathering. With a balance of sweet, salty, and umami, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🍍 Sweet & Savory – The perfect balance of pineapple’s natural sweetness with a rich, umami-packed sauce.
🔥 Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes with minimal prep!
🍚 One-Pan Wonder – Fewer dishes mean less cleanup.
🍗 Juicy & Tender Chicken – Marinated for extra flavor.
🥦 Customizable – Add veggies for a wholesome meal.

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Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Chicken:

• 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cubed)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

• ½ cup pineapple juice (from canned pineapple)
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoon water (for thickening)

For the Rice & Add-ins:

• 1 ½ cups cooked jasmine rice
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• ½ red bell pepper, diced
• ½ green bell pepper, diced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. In a bowl, toss the cubed chicken with 1 tablespoon cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. This creates a light crust that helps the sauce stick.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, and sriracha.
2. In a separate bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoon water to make a slurry.
3. Pour the sauce into the same pan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the chicken to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.
2. Add the pineapple chunks, red and green bell peppers, and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 5: Serve

1. Spoon the pineapple chicken over warm jasmine rice.
2. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g

(Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.)

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Tips & Tricks for the Best Pineapple Chicken and Rice

✔️ Use fresh pineapple for extra flavor – But canned works too!
✔️ Marinate the chicken – Letting the chicken sit with a little soy sauce and garlic for 10 minutes boosts flavor.
✔️ Don’t overcook the pineapple – Just warm it through so it stays juicy.
✔️ Add extra veggies – Try snap peas, carrots, or zucchini for a heartier dish.
✔️ Swap the protein – Use shrimp, tofu, or pork instead of chicken!

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Storage & Reheating

🔹 Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
🔹 Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
🔹 Reheat: Warm in a pan over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

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What to Serve with Pineapple Chicken and Rice

🥢 Asian Slaw – A light and crunchy side balances the dish.
🥬 Steamed Broccoli – Adds freshness and texture.
🥑 Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado complements the sweet and salty flavors.
🍹 Pineapple Mojito – For a fun tropical drink pairing!