Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that brings together sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with comforting rice all in one bowl, this Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s a delightful mix of tender chicken breasts cooked in a luscious honey-Dijon sauce with a bright pineapple punch that makes every bite exciting. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking to impress guests with minimal fuss, this recipe is straightforward, colorful, and deeply satisfying—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe shines because of its uncomplicated ingredients, each carefully selected to build layers of flavor while maintaining a pleasing texture and vibrant appearance. These simple staples come together beautifully without requiring any fancy or hard-to-find items.

• 1 and a half pounds boneless chicken breasts: The star protein, providing juicy tenderness when perfectly cooked.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle herbal note that complements both chicken and pineapple.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper: Just a touch of spice to balance sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For searing the chicken to a golden brown without sticking.
• 1 can (20 oz.) sliced pineapple: Brings natural sweetness and acidity—reserve the juice to make the sauce extra flavorful.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: A thickening agent to give the sauce a perfect glossy finish.
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy depth and slight sharpness to balance the honey’s sweetness.
• 1/4 cup honey: Provides a rich, floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with mustard and pineapple.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic’s aromatic punch is crucial for savory balance.
• 4 servings of cooked rice: The comforting bed for all the saucy goodness to soak into.

How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This simple step infuses the meat with herby and salty notes, setting a solid foundation for all the flavors that follow.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil over medium heat and brown the chicken breasts on both sides. This step locks in moisture and develops a golden crust that adds wonderful texture to the dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Pineapple

Drain the pineapple slices, carefully reserving the juice. These slices will be reintroduced later to soak up the sauce’s flavors while the juice becomes the base of your luscious glaze.

Step 4: Mix Cornstarch and Pineapple Juice

Combine the cornstarch with about 2 ounces of the reserved pineapple juice to make a smooth slurry. Setting this aside now means it’s ready to thicken your sauce at just the right moment.

Step 5: Combine Sauce Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the rest of the pineapple juice with Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. This mixture brings together sweet, tangy, and savory elements that will create the signature flavor of this Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe.

Step 6: Simmer the Chicken in Sauce

Add the mustard mixture to the pan with the browned chicken, cover, and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes. This slow cooking allows the chicken to absorb the sauce’s bright flavors while staying tender.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

Remove the chicken temporarily and stir the cornstarch slurry into the pan sauce. Bring it to a boil for a minute or two until it thickens to a glossy, perfect consistency.

Step 8: Add Pineapple and Finish Cooking

Return the chicken to the pan along with the pineapple slices, cover again, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This step blends the sweetness of the pineapple fully into your dish.

Step 9: Serve Over Rice

Spoon the chicken, pineapple, and mouthwatering sauce generously over cooked rice. The rice absorbs all the wonderful flavors and makes every bite comforting and satisfying.

How to Serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped green onions or cilantro bring a pop of color and an herbal brightness that cuts through the rich sauce beautifully. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can also add a subtle crunch and nutty note.

Side Dishes

Because this dish is so complete in itself, simple side dishes work best. Steamed or sautéed greens like bok choy, kale, or snap peas add freshness and texture contrast, making your meal well-rounded and colorful.

Creative Ways to Present

Present this Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe in hollowed-out pineapple halves for a stunning tropical touch. Alternatively, pile it high in pretty bowls or serve alongside a crisp Asian slaw to introduce crunch and coolness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers of this Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy the flavors again with minimal effort.

Freezing

If you want to save portions for longer, freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the rice in freezer-safe containers. This helps keep textures intact and makes reheating more effective when you’re ready to eat.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat to preserve tenderness, stirring occasionally, or use a microwave covered loosely to avoid drying out. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even juicier and add a rich flavor that complements the pineapple sauce beautifully. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.

Is there a substitute for Dijon mustard?

You can substitute with yellow mustard for a milder tang or use a bit of whole grain mustard for added texture and a rustic twist.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free cornstarch or another gluten-free thickener and choose gluten-free mustard to keep this Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice are perfect because they stay fluffy and soak up the sauce well, but brown rice works too if you prefer a nuttier, healthier option.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Bell peppers, snap peas, or diced carrots sautéed briefly can add color, crunch, and extra nutrition, making the dish even more vibrant and wholesome.

Final Thoughts

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe has quickly become one of those go-to dishes that feels like a little celebration every time I serve it. It’s bright, flavorful, and so easy to pull together on a busy weeknight or when you want to treat yourself. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner that everyone at the table will ask for again!

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