This recipe for Pineapple Chicken and Rice will be the easiest homemade dinner you have ever put together because tender chicken pieces are cooked gently then combined with pineapple and rice while everything comes together smoothly and without stress.

I know we are not always planning elaborate meals yet that has never stopped me from thinking about quick dinners family friendly plates and simple combinations that work well on busy days so Pineapple Chicken and Rice quickly earned its place as a dependable option that fits right into everyday cooking and casual gatherings alike.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe and you can always adjust based on what you have available.

Chicken breast: This is the main protein and it cooks quickly while staying tender when cut into even pieces.
Pineapple chunks: They bring natural sweetness and balance the savory flavors of the dish.
White rice: This acts as the base and absorbs all the sauce for a complete and filling meal.
Red bell pepper: It adds color and a mild sweetness that pairs well with pineapple.
Soy sauce: This provides depth and savory flavor throughout the dish.
Honey: It enhances sweetness and helps create a glossy sauce.
Garlic: This builds the aromatic foundation of the recipe.
Lime juice: It brightens the flavors and balances sweetness.
Green onions: These add freshness and a mild bite at the end.
Sesame seeds: They finish the dish with light texture and nuttiness.

Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet: This allows the chicken and vegetables to cook evenly without overcrowding.
Mixing bowl: I use this to combine the sauce ingredients smoothly before cooking.
Whisk: It helps blend the sauce so the honey and soy sauce fully combine.
Cutting board: This gives me a stable surface for prepping chicken and vegetables.
Sharp knife: Essential for clean cuts and even cooking.
Rice pot or cooker: This ensures fluffy rice ready to serve with the chicken.

Instructions

Step 1 Prepare the Rice

I start by cooking the rice according to my usual method because having it ready makes assembling the dish easier later. I keep it warm and lightly fluffed so it can absorb the sauce when served.

Step 2 Prepare the Sauce

I whisk soy sauce honey garlic and lime juice together in a bowl until the mixture looks smooth and balanced. I always taste it here and adjust slightly if I want more sweetness or tang.

Step 3 Cook the Chicken

I heat the skillet over medium heat and add the chicken pieces in a single layer. I let them cook without moving too much so they develop light color and cook evenly on all sides.

Step 4 Add Vegetables and Pineapple

Once the chicken is mostly cooked I stir in the red bell pepper and pineapple. I let everything cook together until the peppers soften slightly and the pineapple warms through.

Step 5 Combine with Sauce

I pour the prepared sauce over the chicken mixture and gently stir. I let it simmer until the sauce thickens and coats every piece evenly.

Step 6 Finish and Serve

I remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds over the top.
I serve the pineapple chicken hot over the prepared rice.

Tips

When I want extra depth I let the chicken sit briefly in a small amount of the sauce before cooking which helps build flavor early. I also make sure not to overcook the pineapple since keeping it tender but intact gives the best texture. If the sauce thickens too much I add a small splash of water to loosen it gently.

Ways to Serve

I usually serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice in wide bowls so the sauce spreads through the rice evenly. For casual dinners I keep it simple with just the rice base while for guests I sometimes add steamed vegetables on the side to make the plate feel complete and balanced. It also works well packed into meal prep containers for lunches.

Storage Instructions

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator once the dish cools fully. It keeps well for several days and reheats easily on the stovetop or in the microwave with a small splash of water to refresh the sauce and rice texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Pineapple Chicken and Rice ahead of time?

Yes I often prepare it a day in advance and reheat it gently which allows the flavors to settle nicely.

Is Pineapple Chicken and Rice good for meal prep?

This recipe works very well for meal prep because the rice and chicken hold their texture after reheating.

Can I use canned pineapple for Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

I use canned pineapple often and just make sure it is well drained before adding it to the skillet.

What rice works best with Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

I usually use white rice but jasmine rice also pairs very well with the flavors.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Pineapple Chicken and Rice a try and make it part of your regular rotation. It is simple dependable and always satisfying so save it for later and come back to it whenever you need an easy dinner idea.

Happy Cooking!