Easy Juicy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

If you’re looking for a vibrant and crowd-pleasing dinner that tastes like a tropical getaway, this Easy Juicy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe is a must-try! It’s a cheerful combination of tender chicken, golden-sweet pineapple, savory sauce, and fluffy rice, all tied together in one bright and flavorful dish. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight meal for the family or looking to impress at your next gathering, this recipe will bring a pop of sunshine to your table and keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Easy Juicy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe is how each ingredient serves a starring role. There’s no filler here—every element is thoughtfully chosen for maximum flavor, juiciness, and color appeal.

• Boneless chicken breasts: Lean, protein-packed chicken soaks up the sweet and tangy marinade for ultimate tenderness.
• Dried thyme: Adds a subtle herbal note that lifts and brightens the whole dish.
• Salt: Essential for drawing out the chicken’s best flavor and seasoning every bite.
• Pepper: A pinch of spice to balance and enhance the savory notes.
• Vegetable oil: Ensures a perfect sear on the chicken and a silky texture to the sauce.
• Canned sliced pineapple (20 oz): Provides that juicy, sun-kissed sweetness—don’t forget to save the juice for the sauce!
• Cornstarch: Key for thickening the luscious, glossy sauce that coats every piece.
• Dijon mustard: Brings a tangy depth and sophisticated edge to the tropical flavors.
• Honey: Naturally sweetens the sauce and complements the pineapple beautifully.
• Garlic cloves (minced): Adds aromatic warmth and a hint of boldness to the sauce.
• Cooked rice (for serving): A fluffy, neutral canvas that soaks up all the incredible sauce.

How to Make Easy Juicy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by generously sprinkling both sides of your boneless chicken breasts with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning infuses the chicken with layers of flavor before it even hits the pan, setting the foundation for a truly juicy bite later on.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Lay the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan and let them develop a beautiful golden crust—about 3-4 minutes per side. Browning gives a savory depth and helps lock in the juices.

Step 3: Prep the Pineapple and Sauce

Drain the canned pineapple slices, making sure to reserve all the juice for later. Set the slices aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 2 ounces of the reserved pineapple juice until smooth; this will be your thickener. In another bowl, combine the remaining pineapple juice with Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic, creating a saucy blend of tangy, sweet, and garlicky goodness.

Step 4: Simmer the Chicken

Pour the Dijon-pineapple juice mixture into the pan with the chicken. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover with a lid. Let the chicken gently poach for about 15 minutes, soaking up all the flavors as it becomes extra juicy and tender.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Stir the cornstarch mixture one more time, then add it to the pan. Bring the sauce to a boil and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes until it thickens into a glossy, golden glaze.

Step 6: Coat the Chicken and Add Pineapple

Reduce the heat and return the chicken to the pan, flipping each piece to coat it thoroughly in the luscious sauce. Arrange the pineapple slices over and around the chicken, cover, and let everything heat through for another 2-3 minutes. The pineapple turns extra juicy, and every bite gets coated in the sticky-sweet sauce.

Step 7: Serve Over Fluffy Rice

Spoon the saucy chicken and pineapple over beds of steaming, cooked rice. Be sure to drizzle every plate with plenty of extra sauce—it’s too good to waste a drop!

How to Serve Easy Juicy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

Garnishes

This dish looks gorgeous straight from the pan, but a few simple garnishes take it to the next level. Scatter chopped fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds over the top just before serving for added color and a fresh, aromatic finish. Even a squeeze of lime brings the flavors to life!

Side Dishes

The Easy Juicy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe is a meal in itself, but you can create a tropical-inspired spread by adding crisp steamed green beans, a simple cucumber salad, or even roasted bell peppers. These light, colorful sides offer a refreshing contrast and make your table feel like a festive island feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling playful? Serve the chicken and rice in hollowed-out pineapple halves for a wow-factor presentation. You can also plate it family-style in a colorful dish or pack leftovers into bento boxes for a fun and cheerful lunch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, cool them to room temperature before storing in an airtight container. The chicken, pineapple, and sauce will keep beautifully together in the fridge for up to 3 days—making next-day lunches something to look forward to!

Freezing

The Easy Juicy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe freezes surprisingly well. Simply portion the cooled chicken and sauce (without rice) into freezer-safe bags or containers. It’ll keep fresh for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce gently in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce seems thick. Microwave reheating also works; just be sure to cover loosely and stir halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will make this dish extra vibrant—just make sure to extract plenty of juice or substitute with a good quality pineapple juice for the sauce.

What cut of chicken can I substitute?

Boneless, skinless thighs work wonderfully for an even juicier bite, or try drumsticks if you love a rustic, hands-on meal. Adjust cooking times as needed for thicker or bone-in cuts.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! If you use certified gluten-free cornstarch and mustard, the Easy Juicy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe is naturally gluten-free—great for sharing with guests who have dietary restrictions.

Can I make this dish less sweet?

Of course—just reduce the honey a little, or add extra Dijon for more tang. Taste as you go; this recipe adapts easily to your preferences.

How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?

The secret is to simmer gently once the sauce is added and remove the chicken as soon as it’s cooked through. Letting it rest while you finish the sauce helps keep it juicy and tender every time.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Easy Juicy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe enough—it’s pure happy comfort on a plate, effortless to make, and always a hit. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a laid-back celebration, give it a try and share the sunny flavors with everyone you love!

Print