Pineapple Chicken And Rice Stir Fry Style

Name: Pineapple Chicken And Rice Stir Fry Style
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked jasmine rice; 1 pound boneless chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks; 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color); 1 cup snap peas; 3 green onions, chopped; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: International Meal Ideas

When I crave a burst of tropical flavors, Pineapple Chicken and Rice Stir Fry always hits the spot. This dish is a delightful mix of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and juicy pineapple, all tossed together in a savory sauce. I love how the sweetness of the pineapple complements the savory elements, creating a well-balanced meal that feels fresh and satisfying. In just 30 minutes, I can whip this up for my family, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-22T07:43:12.535Z

Experimenting with a blend of savory and sweet ingredients, I found that using fresh pineapple enhances the dish remarkably. The key is to not overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender, allowing it to soak in the flavors of the stir-fry sauce. I also enjoy adding a splash of soy sauce combined with a touch of sesame oil, giving the entire meal a delightful umami depth that keeps everyone asking for seconds.

This recipe has become a family favorite, and I often serve it with fluffy jasmine rice that absorbs all the delicious juices. Ensuring the vegetables remain crisp is crucial, so I advise adding them in stages while stir-frying. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors never fail to impress, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful mix of savory and sweet, making each bite exciting.
Fresh ingredients create a vibrant presentation that's perfect for impressing guests.
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Stir Fry

To achieve that perfect stir fry texture, it's crucial to keep the heat at medium-high while cooking the chicken. This allows for browning without drying out the meat. Remember to continuously stir the ingredients to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. A wok is ideal for this recipe as its high sides provide ample space for tossing, allowing the chicken and vegetables to cook uniformly and develop a nice sear.

Don’t underestimate the importance of prep work in stir fry cooking. Having all your ingredients chopped and ready to go before you start cooking is key. This technique, known as ‘mise en place’, ensures you can add ingredients quickly and maintain the heat needed for a successful stir fry. Once you start cooking, the process can go quickly, and having everything prepped allows for a smoother experience.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of protein is important for this dish. Boneless chicken breasts are great for a quick cook time and a tender outcome. However, feel free to switch this out for boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. If you want to make the dish vegetarian or vegan, consider using tofu or tempeh, which can absorb the flavors of the soy sauce and sesame oil beautifully.

Fresh ingredients really shine in this stir fry. Opt for ripe, juicy pineapple as it brings a natural sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the savory notes. When choosing snap peas, look for ones that are crisp and vibrant green. They not only add color but also provide a satisfying crunch. A good quality soy sauce can elevate this dish; consider a low-sodium variety to manage salt levels.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this flavorful dish:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked jasmine rice
1 pound boneless chicken breasts, diced
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
1 cup snap peas
3 green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have these ingredients ready for a delicious stir fry!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Pineapple Chicken and Rice Stir Fry:

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and stir-fry until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Add the sliced bell pepper and snap peas to the skillet. Continue to stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are bright and slightly tender.

Incorporate Pineapple

Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for another 2 minutes. Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing everything together.

Combine with Rice

Finally, add the cooked jasmine rice and chopped green onions to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and heat through for 2-3 minutes.

Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Pineapple Chicken and Rice Stir Fry!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or chili sauce during cooking. You can also substitute tofu for chicken for a vegetarian version.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice Stir Fry can be partly prepared in advance, making your weeknight cooking even simpler. You can chop your vegetables and pre-cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator and assemble them when you’re ready to cook. This can save you about 15-20 minutes of prep time, allowing you to have a quick meal on hand.

For the rice, using leftover jasmine rice will enhance the dish. Cold, day-old rice separates better and avoids becoming mushy. If you don't have leftover rice, you can make fresh rice, but let it cool completely before adding it to the stir fry.

Serving Suggestions

When plating your Pineapple Chicken and Rice Stir Fry, consider garnishing with sesame seeds or additional chopped green onions for a little extra flair. This not only adds to the visual appeal but also enhances the dish’s flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, a squeeze of fresh lime juice can add a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of the pineapple perfectly.

This stir fry is versatile enough to be served on its own, but for a fuller meal, pair it with a light side salad or spring rolls. The crunchiness of a fresh salad can balance the dish's richness beautifully. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days, but be aware that the texture of the vegetables may soften upon reheating; throw in a few fresh peas to rekindle some crunch when microwaving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used. Just make sure to thaw them before adding to the stir fry.

→ What can I substitute for jasmine rice?

You can use brown rice, basmati rice, or even quinoa if you prefer.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead and cook just before serving.