Pineapple Chicken And Rice Stir Fry Style

Name: Pineapple Chicken And Rice Stir Fry Style
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes; 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: World Food Traditions

I absolutely love making Pineapple Chicken and Rice Stir Fry because it’s such a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy pineapple chunks add a tropical twist that elevates the tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. This dish is quick and easy, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or when I'm craving something a little different. I find that the balance between the ingredients and the vibrant colors of the vegetables create a meal that's not only tasty but visually appealing too!

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:25:09.897Z

When I first tried Pineapple Chicken and Rice Stir Fry, I was amazed at how quickly it came together, and my family adored it! The sweet pineapple contrasted the savory chicken perfectly. The use of fresh veggies adds a crunch that complements the dish beautifully.

I’ve found that including soy sauce and a hint of sesame oil at the end really brings all the flavors together. It’s a quick tip that enhances the taste without adding much prep time. This is definitely a dish that has made regular appearances in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory harmony that excites your taste buds
Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights
Vibrant vegetables make it colorful and nutritious

Maximizing Flavor with Chicken

The chicken is the centerpiece of this dish, and it's crucial to cook it properly for optimal flavor and texture. Cube the chicken breast into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. When sautéing, it’s essential to allow the chicken to sear without constant stirring; this creates a delicious golden crust. Keep an eye on it, and once it's golden brown on the edges, it's usually cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). If needed, cut a piece open to check that there's no pink in the middle.

For a richer flavor profile, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of sesame oil, soy sauce, and garlic for about 30 minutes before cooking. This step infuses the chicken with savory depth and enhances the umami aspect of the dish. If time is tight, you can skip marinating, but if available, it’s a game-changer.

Vegetable Varieties and Substitutions

While bell pepper and broccoli are classic additions to this stir fry, feel free to customize your vegetable medley based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Snap peas, carrots, or zucchini are excellent substitutes that would lend a similar texture. When adding these vegetables, keep in mind that cook times may vary; tender vegetables like zucchini will need less time, around 2-3 minutes, compared to sturdier ones like carrots.

Additionally, if you're looking to boost nutrition, consider incorporating spinach or kale near the end of cooking. They wilt quickly and will add both color and nutrients to the dish without requiring extra cooking time.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice Stir Fry is great for meal prepping. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Just make sure to let the stir fry cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn.

When you're ready to eat, simply reheat the stir fry on medium heat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of water or a drizzle of soy sauce to revive moisture and encourage a nice, steamy texture. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a quick meal later in the week!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Pineapple Chicken and Rice Stir Fry:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delightful stir fry:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the chicken cubes until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the bell pepper, broccoli, and garlic. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked rice and pineapple chunks to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, then stir to combine everything evenly.

Final Touches

Season with salt and pepper to taste, then continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.

Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy your delicious Pineapple Chicken and Rice Stir Fry!

Enjoy your meal while it’s hot and freshly made!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this stir fry with your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Pineapple Chicken and Rice Stir Fry, serve it in bowls garnished with freshly chopped green onions or cilantro. A squeeze of lime juice right before eating can add a refreshing brightness that enhances the overall flavor. Pair the dish with a side of crispy spring rolls or a simple salad to create a complete meal.

If you want to make it even more delightful, consider adding toasted sesame seeds or cashews on top for an extra crunch. These not only enhance the texture but add an additional layer of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Adjusting for Spice Levels

If you enjoy a bit of heat, this stir fry is easy to spice up! Incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha while cooking can elevate the flavor without overwhelming the sweet and savory balance of the dish. Start with a pinch, taste, and adjust according to your preference to ensure it’s just the right kick.

For a milder version, if kids or spice-sensitive palates are involved, stick with the core flavors of the soy sauce and sesame oil. The sweetness of the pineapple will counterbalance any strong flavors, making it universally appealing.

Experimenting with Grains

While the recipe specifies cooked rice, feel free to switch things up by using quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even whole grain options like farro or barley. These alternatives might alter the flavor profile slightly but can add new textures and nutritional benefits. If using cauliflower rice, reduce cooking times as it requires only a few minutes to heat through.

When using different grains, the cooking method may also vary, so check cooking instructions accordingly. With quinoa, for example, you would typically rinse it and cook it separately before incorporating it into your stir fry to maintain the ideal texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using leftover rice is a great way to save time and adds a nice texture to the stir fry.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it holds up well in the fridge and can be reheated easily. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and it will still be delicious!

→ What type of soy sauce should I use?

You can use regular soy sauce, low-sodium soy sauce, or even tamari if you're looking for a gluten-free option.