Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

This Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and sweet pineapple in a quick and easy meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering, this recipe highlights bright flavors and healthy ingredients. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy a satisfying and colorful dish that will please everyone at the table!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Rice
• For the Chicken
• For Cooking
• For Flavoring
• For the Pineapple & Peas
• For Garnish
• How to Make Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
• Step 4: Deglaze the Pan
• Step 5: Combine Ingredients
• Step 6: Final Touches
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice
• As a Main Course
• With Extra Protein
• Garnished Creatively
• How to Perfect Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice
• Reheating Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How can I customize my Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice?
• Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
• What else goes well with Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice?
• How do I reheat Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice without drying it out?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes needed from start to finish, this dish fits into any busy schedule.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of chicken, veggies, and pineapple creates a delicious balance of savory and sweet.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or as a side at your next gathering; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Featuring lean chicken and fresh produce, this fried rice is not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or switch up the protein to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This allows for even cooking of all ingredients without overcrowding, ensuring everything heats properly.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife helps with quick and safe chopping of vegetables and proteins.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are key in achieving the right flavor balance in your fried rice.

Ingredients

This easy pineapple fried rice is packed with bright flavors, featuring tender chicken, bell peppers, peas, sweet chunks of pineapple, and a squeeze of lime juice. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a delicious and healthier meal for any night of the week!

For the Rice

• 4 cups cooked brown or white rice, chilled (see Notes)

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

For Cooking

• 3 tablespoons coconut oil, divided
• ½ yellow onion, chopped
• ½ green bell pepper, chopped
• ½ red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated

For Flavoring

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free, if needed)
• 1 tablespoon honey

For the Pineapple & Peas

• 1 ½ cups cubed pineapple
• ¾ cup frozen peas

For Garnish

• 1 small lime, juiced
• Green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish

PIN THIS!

How to Make Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces generously with salt. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes while you prep the other ingredients. Blot dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When shimmering, add the chicken. Cook while stirring occasionally until there’s no pink in the center (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Melt the remaining tablespoon of coconut oil in the same pan. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the bell peppers along with garlic and ginger; sauté for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

Add soy sauce to the pan. Scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom to incorporate all flavors.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Stir in cooked rice along with honey and cubed pineapple. Add back the cooked chicken. Reduce heat to low; cook for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Final Touches

In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in frozen peas along with lime juice.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with fresh green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether served as a main course or a side, this colorful meal is sure to impress. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

As a Main Course

• Pair with a refreshing salad for a balanced meal. A simple green salad or fruit salad complements the flavors well.
• Serve alongside grilled vegetables for added texture and health benefits. The smoky char enhances the taste of the fried rice.

With Extra Protein

• Top with fried or poached eggs for an extra protein boost. This adds richness and makes the dish even more satisfying.
• Add shrimp or tofu for additional protein options that cater to various dietary preferences.

Garnished Creatively

• Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley for fresh flavor and color. Herbs elevate the dish visually and enhance its taste.
• Drizzle with sriracha or sweet chili sauce for those who enjoy a little heat. This adds an exciting kick to each bite.

How to Perfect Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

To achieve the best results with your Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice, consider these helpful tips:

• Use day-old rice: Chilled, leftover rice prevents mushiness and ensures each grain stays separate during cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches helps maintain high heat, allowing chicken and veggies to sear properly instead of steaming.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of honey based on your preference for sweetness; this can balance out the pineapple’s acidity.
• Add lime zest: Incorporating lime zest along with juice enhances citrus flavor, giving depth to the dish.
• Experiment with veggies: Customize with your favorite vegetables like carrots or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
• Serve hot: Enjoying this dish while it’s warm ensures you experience all its vibrant flavors at their best.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

Pairing your Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Cucumber Salad: A light salad made with sliced cucumbers, lime juice, and mint offers a refreshing contrast.
2. Miso Soup: This classic Japanese soup adds warmth and umami flavors that beautifully balance the sweetness of the fried rice.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides a nutritious crunch that pairs well with the dish’s textures.
4. Spring Rolls: Light and crispy spring rolls make an excellent finger food option alongside Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice.
5. Fruit Platter: A selection of tropical fruits like mango and kiwi enhances the fruity notes in the fried rice.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is a delightful addition, offering both flavor and visual appeal.
7. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles provide a deliciously nutty side that complements Asian-inspired dishes perfectly.
8. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts bring earthy tones that contrast nicely against the sweet pineapple flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some tips to avoid them:

• Using fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice can become mushy when frying. Use chilled, leftover rice for the best texture.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it tough. Remove it from the heat as soon as it’s no longer pink.
• Not seasoning properly: Skipping salt or soy sauce can leave your dish bland. Season generously at each step for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring ingredient prep: Failing to chop vegetables uniformly can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes.
• Skipping the lime juice: Omitting lime juice removes essential brightness from the dish. Always add it for a fresh finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a skillet over medium heat and stir until warmed, about 5-7 minutes.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice?

You can customize your Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice by adding different proteins like shrimp or tofu. You may also include various vegetables such as carrots or broccoli for extra nutrition.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce if you want a gluten-free option.

What else goes well with Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice?

Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it alongside spring rolls for a complete meal.

How do I reheat Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice without drying it out?

To prevent drying out, add a splash of water or broth when reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. This will help keep it moist and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor and color. It’s versatile enough for any weeknight dinner, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences. Give this delightful recipe a try, and feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients!