If you love recipes that bring bold flavor without overcomplicating dinner, this sweet and savory pineapple chicken and rice is your next must-make. Juicy chicken, vibrant pineapple, and a sauce that strikes the perfect balance between tangy and sweet come together with fluffy white rice for a dish that feels both comforting and exciting.

What makes this dish so special is its ability to satisfy a wide range of cravings in one go. You get a touch of tropical brightness from the pineapple, a hit of umami from the soy sauce, and a gentle warmth from garlic and ginger. It’s colorful, full of texture, and packed with flavor—yet it comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice

This dish delivers on multiple fronts. It’s fast, family-friendly, and packs a beautiful harmony of flavors. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous palates, it appeals to both. The chicken turns wonderfully tender as it soaks up the pineapple glaze, and the rice soaks up every bit of deliciousness from the pan.

It’s a perfect option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings when you want something that feels special without needing special skills. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it again the next day.

What Kind of Pineapple Should I Use?

Fresh pineapple works wonderfully here, giving you a naturally juicy texture and that extra zing. If you’re in a hurry or cooking from the pantry, canned pineapple chunks in juice (not syrup) are a fantastic alternative. Just make sure to drain them well and reserve a bit of juice for the sauce—that liquid gold adds tons of flavor.

Ingredients for the Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice

This dish uses accessible ingredients, many of which you might already have on hand. Together, they create a meal that tastes like it took hours but comes together in under 45 minutes.

Chicken breast or thighs – Provides the hearty protein base; thighs give extra juiciness, but breast works great too.
Pineapple chunks – Offer bursts of tropical sweetness and caramelize slightly when cooked.
Soy sauce – Adds salty umami depth that balances the sweetness of pineapple.
Garlic – Brings aromatic warmth and complexity.
Fresh ginger – Gives the dish a subtle zing and freshness.
Brown sugar – Enhances the sauce with a rich, molasses-like sweetness.
Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce to a glossy, sticky consistency.
Cooked white rice – The perfect neutral base that soaks up every drop of sauce.
Green onions – Adds a bright pop of color and fresh bite at the end.
Sesame oil – Used at the finish for a nutty, toasty aroma.

Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice (1)

How To Make the Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a hot skillet with a bit of oil, sear the chicken until golden on the outside. Don’t worry about cooking it through just yet—you’ll finish it later.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

In the same pan, add minced garlic and ginger and stir until fragrant. Add in soy sauce, brown sugar, a splash of pineapple juice, and pineapple chunks. Let everything simmer and reduce.

Step 3: Thicken and Combine

Make a quick slurry with cornstarch and water and stir it into the pan. This will help the sauce thicken beautifully. Return the chicken to the skillet, toss to coat, and let it finish cooking through.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Serve the sticky, sweet chicken over warm rice. Sprinkle chopped green onions and a light drizzle of sesame oil for a burst of flavor and aroma.

How to Serve and Store Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice

This recipe comfortably feeds 4 people and makes a delightful full meal on its own. Serve it piping hot straight from the skillet, or spoon it into meal prep containers for the week. The dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats easily in the microwave or stovetop.

For longer storage, freeze it in airtight containers and thaw overnight in the fridge. The sauce might thicken slightly after freezing but can be revived with a splash of water during reheating.

What to Serve With Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

Steamed Broccoli

A crisp, green side that balances the richness of the sauce perfectly.

Egg Rolls

Crunchy, golden egg rolls add a nice contrast in texture and a savory companion.

Asian Cucumber Salad

Cool and refreshing, it adds a lovely tang that complements the sweetness of the chicken.

Stir-Fried Vegetables

Quick stir-fried veggies like bell peppers and snap peas make a vibrant pairing.

Garlic Noodles

For carb lovers, garlic noodles bring out even more umami.

Mango Avocado Salsa

Fresh, creamy, and slightly spicy—this works beautifully with the pineapple flavors.

Pickled Carrots and Daikon

A sharp, crunchy side that lifts the dish and adds some zing.

Sesame Green Beans

Simple but packed with sesame flavor, they’re a great way to add greens.

Want More Chicken and Rice Ideas?

If you love this sweet and savory pineapple chicken and rice, you’ll probably enjoy these hearty and satisfying dinners too:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a cozy, cheesy twist on weeknight meals.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta when you want something filling and easy.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you’re craving bold, cheesy pasta.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for that extra rich comfort food night.
One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta when you’re short on time but want big flavor.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the pineapple? Maybe add some chili flakes for heat? I’d love to hear your variations!

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