Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet

why make this recipe

Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet is a simple and tasty dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. It is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends and family. The combination of chicken, bell peppers, and pineapple makes for a colorful and delicious meal. Plus, it’s a one-skillet recipe, which means less cleanup for you!

how to make Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve 1/4 cup juice)
  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger

Directions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Season it with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
  3. Add the diced bell pepper and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes slightly tender.
  4. Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and ground ginger.
  6. Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir well to coat everything nicely.
  7. Let it simmer uncovered for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  8. Serve the chicken and pineapple mixture over the cooked rice or with rice on the side. Add green onions or sesame seeds on top for garnish if desired.

how to serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet

Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet can be served directly from the skillet for a rustic look. You can place the rice on the plate first and then top it with the chicken and pineapple mixture. If you want to add a crunchy element, sprinkle some chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top before serving.

how to store Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet

To store leftovers, let the dish cool down to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until it is warmed through.

tips to make Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet

  • Make sure to cook the chicken until it is fully cooked to avoid any food safety issues.
  • If you want more vegetables, you can add carrots or snap peas. They will complement the dish nicely.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your taste preference.

variation

You can make a pineapple fried rice version by adding the cooked rice to the skillet after the chicken and sauce mixture, stirring well to combine everything before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Just cut it into chunks and add it in the same way as canned pineapple.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a healthier option and adds a nice texture to the dish.

What can I serve with Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet?
You can serve it with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet

A delightful one-skillet meal combining sweet pineapple and savory chicken, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or gathering with friends.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian Fusion
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced Ensure chicken is fully cooked for food safety.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil For cooking the chicken.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Season to preference.
  • 1 large bell pepper, diced Any color bell pepper can be used.
  • 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve 1/4 cup juice) Fresh pineapple can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 cups cooked white rice Can substitute with brown rice for a healthier option.
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce Adjust based on salt preference.
  • 1 tbsp honey Can adjust sweetness to taste.
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Season it with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
  3. Add the diced bell pepper and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes slightly tender.
  4. Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and ground ginger.
  6. Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir well to coat everything nicely.
  7. Let it simmer uncovered for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  8. Serve the chicken and pineapple mixture over the cooked rice or with rice on the side. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

To store leftovers, let the dish cool down to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.