Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

This Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful blend of flavors that can brighten up any dinner table. It features tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, sweet pineapple chunks, and a zesty squeeze of lime juice. Perfect for quick weeknight meals or as a crowd-pleasing dish at gatherings, this recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a colorful and satisfying meal that your family will love!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Fried Rice
• 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
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with a Salad
• Add Some Protein
• Serve in a Pineapple Boat
• 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
• Can I use other proteins in Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice?
• How do I make this dish vegetarian?
• What can I serve with Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice?
• Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: Combines sweet pineapple with savory chicken for a taste sensation.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with colorful veggies and lean protein for a nutritious option.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or side dish for any occasion.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required with everything cooked in one skillet.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make the preparation seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking everything evenly while allowing enough space for stirring.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Spoon or spatula: Essential for mixing ingredients thoroughly without damaging the 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 Fried Rice

• 4 cups cooked brown or white rice, chilled (see Notes)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 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
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 ½ cups cubed pineapple
• ¾ cup frozen peas
• 1 small lime, juiced

For Garnish

• Green onions and sesame seeds

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How to Make Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces generously with salt. Let them sit for about 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 no longer 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 about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the bell peppers, garlic, and ginger; sauté for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

Add soy sauce to deglaze the pan by scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the cooked rice along with honey, cubed pineapple, and cooked chicken. Reduce heat to low and cook for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Final Touches

In the last few minutes of cooking time, stir in frozen peas and 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 you are hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
• Cilantro: For those who enjoy it, fresh cilantro can bring an aromatic flavor.

Pair with a Salad

• Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw with sesame dressing complements the fried rice beautifully.
• Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, cucumber salad can balance the richness of the dish.

Add Some Protein

• Grilled Shrimp: Serve alongside or on top of the fried rice for an elegant touch.
• Tofu: For a vegetarian option, crispy tofu can be added for extra protein.

Serve in a Pineapple Boat

• Pineapple Half: Hollow out a pineapple half and serve the fried rice inside for a fun presentation.

How to Perfect Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

To make your Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice even better, consider these helpful tips. Following these suggestions will ensure your dish is flavorful and satisfying.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Leftover rice that has been chilled helps prevent mushiness in your fried rice.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook and adjust soy sauce or honey levels to suit your preference.
• Cook Over High Heat: A hot pan allows for better frying and prevents steaming, keeping the rice fluffy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If making a large batch, cook in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Add Lime Juice Last: Stir in lime juice at the end to preserve its bright flavor.
• Try Different Proteins: Mix up chicken with shrimp, pork, or tofu for variety.

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Best Side Dishes for Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

Pairing side dishes with your Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or shrimp provide a delightful crunch.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds umami flavors to complement the fried rice.
3. Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt offers protein and fiber while being easy to prepare.
4. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Grilled skewers marinated in teriyaki sauce enhance the Asian flavor profile.
5. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quick-cooked seasonal vegetables bring freshness and color to the table.
6. Chili Garlic Broccoli: Sautéed broccoli with garlic and chili flakes adds spice and nutrients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using Freshly Cooked Rice: Fresh rice can become mushy when fried. Always use chilled, day-old rice for the best texture.
• Not Seasoning the Chicken: Failing to season your chicken can lead to bland flavor. Generously season with salt before cooking for enhanced taste.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too much chicken at once can lower the pan’s temperature. Cook in batches to achieve a nice sear and even cooking.
• Skipping the Soy Sauce: Omitting soy sauce can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Use it to enhance the dish’s overall taste profile.
• Adding Peas Too Early: Adding frozen peas too soon can make them mushy. Stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking for optimal texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil, stirring until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other proteins in Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or pork for different flavors.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or tofu.

What can I serve with Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the vegetables for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice is not only quick and easy but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Give it a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!

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