Name: Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1½ cups fresh pineapple chunks; ½ cup pineapple juice; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 3 tablespoons honey; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons cold water; 4 cups cooked jasmine rice; 2 green onions, sliced (optional); ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Looking for something quick, light, and packed with flavor? Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice hits every note. It’s a colorful meal that combines juicy chicken bites with sweet pineapple chunks and a garlic-soy glaze that clings to every forkful. Whether you need easy dinners for busy nights or healthy meals on a budget, this dish makes the list.

It works great for families, picky eaters, or meal prep lovers. Plus, it comes together in about 30 minutes with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. This guide includes ingredients, step-by-step instructions, creative variations, smart storage tips, and answers to common questions about this flavorful recipe with pineapple.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice

Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice offers a refreshing take on dinner that feels tropical and comforting at the same time. Here’s why it’s a go-to:

Ready in just 30 minutes from fridge to table
Affordable and made with pantry-friendly ingredients
Naturally sweet and savory with a hint of tang
Easy to meal prep or serve to a crowd
Pairs well with vegetables, rice, or even noodles

When you’re looking for different dinner ideas healthy enough for weekday meals, this one fits the bill. It’s vibrant, satisfying, and leaves you wanting more.

Ingredients for Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice

To make this flavorful pineapple chicken dinner, you’ll need fresh ingredients with bold flavor. Each one plays a role in building a sauce that clings to the chicken perfectly and sits beautifully over rice.

1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil, for searing the chicken
1½ cups fresh pineapple chunks, sweet and slightly tangy
½ cup pineapple juice, for natural sweetness and base of the sauce
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce, adds savory depth
3 tablespoons honey, light sweetness that balances the garlic
4 cloves garlic, minced for strong aroma and flavor
1 tablespoon cornstarch, to thicken the sauce
2 tablespoons cold water, to mix with the cornstarch
4 cups cooked white jasmine rice, fluffy and fragrant
2 green onions, sliced thin for garnish (optional)
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional for mild heat

Fresh pineapple delivers the best texture, but canned in 100% juice works in a pinch. Keep ingredients colorful and simple for a Pinterest-worthy plate that feels tropical and comforting.

How to Make Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice

Cooking this dish is a breeze, even on your busiest weeknight. The key is prepping ingredients ahead and not overcrowding the pan. Here’s how to make it from start to finish:

Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic. Stir until well combined and set aside.
Deglaze and Simmer
In the same pan, pour in the sauce mixture and bring to a gentle simmer. Scrape the browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.
Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, stir cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Add to the simmering sauce and stir constantly for 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Add Chicken and Pineapple
Return chicken to the skillet along with pineapple chunks. Toss to coat and let cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is warmed through.

Serve over hot jasmine rice and top with green onions if desired.

Finish the meal by checking out our One Pan Chicken and Rice Bake for another dinner that’s fast and full of flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice

This recipe can stand on its own or pair easily with simple sides. Here are some fresh, easy ways to plate it:

With steamed broccoli for a classic combo that adds crunch and fiber
Alongside roasted green beans or snap peas for color and bite
In lettuce wraps for a low-carb dinner idea with pineapple
Over brown rice or quinoa for extra texture and nutrients
With fresh lime wedges to brighten the entire dish before serving

Pair your plate with sparkling water and a slice of fresh lime for a clean, light, and refreshing dinner idea that looks as good as it tastes.

Want another colorful and easy chicken dish? Don’t miss our Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice.

Variations and Customization Ideas for Pineapple Chicken

This sweet garlic pineapple chicken dinner is flexible enough to suit your pantry, preferences, and dietary needs. Here’s how to make it your own:

Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a lighter or vegetarian option
Use canned pineapple in juice when fresh isn’t available
Add bell peppers or sugar snap peas for crunch and color
Stir in sriracha or chili paste to turn up the heat
Serve over cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option

If you like your meals bright and bold, try our Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken for another veggie-packed chicken dinner with unexpected flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice

This dish keeps well in the fridge and makes a great meal prep option. Here’s how to store and reheat leftovers without losing flavor or texture:

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freeze in individual meal prep containers for up to 2 months
Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or pineapple juice over low heat
Microwave gently in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, to avoid drying out
Store rice separately from the chicken for better texture when reheating

For more meal-prep friendly options, our Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken also tastes amazing the next day and freezes beautifully.

Pro Tips for the Best Pineapple Chicken

Even simple recipes like this one benefit from a few expert tips. Here’s how to make it perfect every time:

Sear chicken in batches if needed to avoid steaming and get a nice golden crust
Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a deeper flavor
Add pineapple at the end to keep its texture firm and juicy
Don’t skip cornstarch as it gives the sauce that restaurant-style thickness
Let sauce simmer gently to allow flavors to blend without boiling off the liquid

Love flavorful chicken recipes? You’ll also want to check out our Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot for another delicious weeknight dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice

Avoid these simple errors for a more successful cooking experience and a tastier final result.

Using syrup-packed pineapple instead of juice-packed or fresh
Overcrowding the pan so chicken steams instead of browns
Skipping the cornstarch which leads to watery sauce
Cooking pineapple too early making it soggy and mushy
Serving before letting it sit a minute which helps flavors settle

Stay aware of these mistakes, and your dinner will not only look beautiful but taste balanced and satisfying from the first bite to the last.

Conclusion: Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice Brings Flavor to Your Table

Dinner doesn’t have to be boring or take hours to prepare. With Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice, you get juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and a garlic-soy glaze that wraps everything in rich flavor.

It’s budget-friendly, healthy, and ready fast, making it perfect for weeknights or meal prep. Give it a try, and you might just add it to your weekly rotation.

FAQs About Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice

Can I use canned pineapple in Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice?

Yes, canned pineapple in 100% juice works well. Drain it first and avoid pineapple packed in syrup. Fresh pineapple gives the best texture, but canned is a great substitute for busy nights.

What can I substitute for soy sauce in Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice?

Try tamari for a gluten-free alternative or use coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter, soy-free option. If needed, a small amount of broth with a dash of balsamic vinegar adds depth to the sauce.

How do I keep the chicken moist when reheating Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice?

Add a splash of pineapple juice, broth, or water before reheating. Cover the dish to trap moisture and warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop without overcooking.

Is Sweet Garlic Pineapple Chicken with Rice good for freezer meal prep?

Yes. Portion into freezer-safe containers, let it cool completely, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently. Store rice and chicken separately for best results.