Summer evenings are made for fresh and vibrant flavors that come together quickly.

This pineapple chicken and rice is the perfect way to end your day. It is fast, fresh, and full of tropical sunshine. Your whole family will love the sweet and savory glaze. It makes dinner feel like a tiny vacation at home.

Why This Recipe Is a Winner

This recipe is a total lifesaver for busy parents and beginner cooks. You get protein, fruit, and grains in one beautiful bowl. The fresh pineapple adds a bright pop of sweetness. It is much better and faster than waiting for takeout. This pineapple chicken and rice is perfect for warm summer nights.

Simple Method

You start by cooking the rice until it is perfectly fluffy. Then you sear the chicken until it is golden brown. The sauce thickens right in the pan with the fruit. It is beginner-friendly and very doable for anyone. You will feel like a pro chef in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Most of these items are likely already in your pantry or fridge.

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 cups jasmine rice
2.5 cups chicken stock
1.5 cups fresh pineapple chunks
1 large red bell pepper, seeded and diced
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup rice vinegar
3 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Cooking Steps

Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until clear; combine with chicken stock in a medium saucepan.
Bring rice to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed; keep covered off heat.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and cornstarch until the slurry is homogenous.
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add chicken pieces in a single layer and sear until golden brown and cooked through (approximately 6-8 minutes); remove chicken from pan and set aside.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the same pan; sauté the diced bell peppers and pineapple chunks for 3-4 minutes until the pepper softens and the pineapple caramelizes slightly.
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour the prepared sauce over the mixture.
Toss continuously for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze coating all components.
Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and portion into bowls.
Top the rice with the pineapple chicken mixture and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this pineapple chicken and rice in deep, warm bowls. You can add a side of steamed snap peas for extra crunch. It looks beautiful when you sprinkle the green onions on top. Set the table outside and enjoy the summer breeze. It is a complete meal that satisfies every craving.

Keep It Fresh

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay delicious for up to three days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stove. Add a splash of water if the rice seems dry. This dish is also perfect for weekday lunches. You can even prep the sauce a day early.

Tips for Best Results

Use fresh pineapple for the absolute best flavor and texture.
Do not crowd the pan when you are browning the chicken.
Rinse your rice thoroughly to ensure it stays fluffy and light.
Prep the sauce while the rice is simmering to save time.
Double the sauce if you like your rice extra coated.
Use chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender.
For summer parties, serve this inside a hollowed-out pineapple half.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a tiny kick.

Easy Flavor Ideas

Swap chicken for shrimp for an even faster cooking time.
Use brown rice for a heartier and more filling option.
Add cashews at the end for a delightful salty crunch.
Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different kind of sweet.

Quick Answers

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple if fresh is not available. Just make sure to drain the juice very well first. This helps the fruit caramelize properly in the pan.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be very easily! Simply swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. Always check your cornstarch label to be completely sure.

How do I know the chicken is done?

The chicken should be golden brown on the outside. It should no longer be pink in the middle. It usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes.

I hope this bright and happy meal brings joy to your table. It is one of my favorite ways to celebrate summer evenings. Happy cooking!

— Lidia