Sticky Pineapple Chicken And Rice

Name: Sticky Pineapple Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups jasmine rice; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup fresh pineapple, chopped; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup pineapple juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 green onions, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Homegrown Comfort

I absolutely love cooking up this Sticky Pineapple Chicken and Rice! It's one of those dishes that always gets rave reviews from friends and family, thanks to its blend of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy pineapple combined with tender chicken creates a delightful harmony that transports my taste buds to a tropical paradise. Plus, it's a one-pot meal, which makes cleanup a breeze after a fulfilling dinner. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll find it hard to resist making it again and again.

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-10T21:24:35.744Z

When I first made Sticky Pineapple Chicken, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to prepare, yet the flavors were vibrant and delicious. Using fresh pineapple not only adds sweetness but also helps to tenderize the chicken. I recommend marinating the chicken in the pineapple juice beforehand for at least 30 minutes; it truly makes a difference!

I've tried several variations of this dish, but using jasmine rice really elevates the experience. The fragrant rice absorbs the sticky glaze perfectly, making every bite a delightful surprise. Enjoy it with a sprinkle of green onions on top for an extra pop of flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A sweet and savory balance that excites your palate
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
A tropical twist that transports you to sunny shores

Essential Ingredients for Flavor

The combination of soy sauce and brown sugar in this recipe plays a crucial role in balancing flavors. The soy sauce adds umami depth, while the brown sugar introduces a moment of sweetness that enhances the overall dish. This sweet-savory interplay is what makes the Sticky Pineapple Chicken so addictive. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, consider reducing the brown sugar to two tablespoons without compromising flavor.

Fresh pineapple is another star ingredient in this dish. It not only adds sweetness and juiciness but also provides acidity that helps to tenderize the chicken during cooking. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple can be a convenient substitute. Just be sure to drain it well, as excess liquid can dilute the sauce.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Chicken

Getting the chicken perfectly cooked can make or break your dish. It’s best to cut the chicken breast into uniform pieces, about one-inch cubes, to ensure even cooking. Searing the chicken over medium-high heat allows for browning, which contributes to a more complex flavor. Cook it until golden brown on the outside yet juicy and tender on the inside, approximately 7-10 minutes. Use a meat thermometer if in doubt; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Don’t forget to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet after cooking the chicken. These flavorful morsels will integrate into the sauce when you add the marinade and pineapple, enriching the overall taste of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Sticky Pineapple Chicken and Rice:

Ingredients

2 cups jasmine rice
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup fresh pineapple, chopped
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup pineapple juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready to ensure a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Sticky Pineapple Chicken and Rice:

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the jasmine rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 18 minutes, or until rice is fluffy. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and cornstarch. Mix well until the sugar dissolves and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, and add to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Add Pineapple and Sauce

Add the chopped pineapple and marinade mixture to the skillet with the chicken. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.

Combine with Rice

Serve the sticky chicken mixture over the fluffy jasmine rice, garnished with sliced green onions!

Enjoy your delicious Sticky Pineapple Chicken and Rice!

Pro Tips

For extra texture, consider adding some chopped cashews or bell peppers into the dish just before serving. It adds a great crunch and colorful touch!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This recipe can be a great candidate for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken and combine the sauce ingredients a day ahead. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. On the day of cooking, simply sauté the chicken and add the marinade and pineapple. This technique ensures your flavors develop even more and saves you time during busy weeknights.

If you're left with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Microwave or heat on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a more vibrant presentation and flavor contrast, try garnishing the dish with additional fresh ingredients like chopped cilantro or red pepper flakes. A side of steamed broccoli or snap peas can add a nice crunch and extra nutrition to your meal while complementing the tropical flavors of the chicken and pineapple.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas to the skillet for added texture and color. These should be added just after the chicken is browned, giving them a chance to sauté and absorb some of the flavorful sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can thaw frozen chicken and follow the same cooking instructions. Just ensure it's fully cooked before serving.

→ What can I substitute for jasmine rice?

You can use basmati rice or even brown rice if you prefer a healthier option, but cooking times will vary.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator, and the flavors blend even more after a day.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version, and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.