Name: Easy Pineapple Chicken with Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup pineapple chunks (canned in juice or fresh); 3/4 cup pineapple juice; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced or grated; 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp water (for cornstarch slurry); 1 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil; Cooked white or brown rice (for serving); Optional: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, red bell pepper, chili flakes (for garnish)

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This Easy Pineapple Chicken with Rice is a sweet, savory, and satisfying dish that brings tropical flavor to the dinner table with minimal effort. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a tangy pineapple sauce and served over fluffy rice for a meal that’s both comforting and full of bold flavor. I love making this recipe when I want something quick, colorful, and packed with taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how fast and flavorful this dish is. The sweet pineapple and savory soy sauce create a perfectly balanced glaze that clings to every piece of chicken. It’s a one-pan meal that’s simple enough for weeknights but still feels exciting. Plus, the whole meal comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days. Easy Pineapple Chicken with Rice

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Pineapple chunks (canned in juice or fresh)
Pineapple juice (from the can or separate)
Soy sauce
Garlic (minced)
Ginger (minced or grated)
Brown sugar or honey
Cornstarch (for thickening)
Olive oil or sesame oil (for cooking)
Cooked white or brown rice
Optional: green onions, sesame seeds, red bell pepper, or chili flakes for garnish or added flavor

Directions

I heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken pieces until browned and cooked through. I remove them and set them aside.
In the same skillet, I add garlic and ginger, cooking just until fragrant.
I stir in pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar or honey, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
In a small bowl, I mix cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry, then pour it into the sauce to thicken.
Once the sauce thickens, I return the chicken to the pan along with the pineapple chunks. I stir well to coat everything in the sauce.
I let it simmer for a few more minutes, then serve it hot over a bed of rice. I top with green onions or sesame seeds if I have them.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so I can have dinner on the table in just 30 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add bell peppers or snap peas for color and crunch. For a spicier version, I toss in red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha. If I want a citrus twist, I mix in a little orange juice with the pineapple. I’ve also served it over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

storage/reheating

Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or juice to loosen the sauce. It also freezes well—just store it in an airtight container once cooled. Easy Pineapple Chicken with Rice

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, I often use canned pineapple in juice (not syrup). It’s easy, affordable, and works great in this recipe.

What type of chicken is best?

I prefer chicken thighs for extra juiciness, but chicken breasts work just as well if I don’t overcook them.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. I make the chicken and sauce, store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve over fresh rice.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

A simple cornstarch slurry thickens it quickly. I mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water before adding it to the simmering sauce.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, I use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce.

Conclusion

This Easy Pineapple Chicken with Rice is one of my favorite go-to meals when I need something quick, flavorful, and family-approved. The sweet and tangy sauce, juicy chicken, and fluffy rice come together in a way that’s always satisfying. Whether I’m cooking for a busy weeknight or meal-prepping for the week, this dish never disappoints.