Sticky Pineapple Chicken And Rice

Name: Sticky Pineapple Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups cooked jasmine rice; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; Sesame seeds, for garnish

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I absolutely love making Sticky Pineapple Chicken and Rice for dinner, especially on busy weeknights. The combination of juicy chicken coated in a sweet pineapple glaze served over fluffy rice makes for a comforting meal that the whole family enjoys. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option when time is of the essence. The vibrant flavors remind me of tropical vacations, and every bite brings a hint of sunshine to the table.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-10T18:29:36.718Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I was amazed at how simple it was to achieve such a vibrant dish. The sticky pineapple glaze not only dresses the chicken beautifully but also infuses it with a delightful sweetness that perfectly balances the savory notes. I recommend using fresh pineapple for an extra burst of flavor, as it elevates the dish to a whole new level.

Another tip I discovered is to marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper while ensuring the chicken remains juicy and tender. Serving this dish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top makes it not only taste great but also look stunning on the table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory flavors that create a delightful harmony
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a hectic weeknight
Healthy whole ingredients with a tropical twist

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving a deliciously sticky glaze lies in the balance of soy sauce and honey. Soy sauce brings a salty umami flavor, while honey adds sweetness and helps thicken the sauce as it cooks. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, consider using low-sodium soy sauce or substituting agave nectar for honey. Just remember, the issue with substitutions is that they can affect the texture and flavor, so taste as you go to find your perfect balance.

Using fresh pineapple chunks not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the sauce's thick texture. If you opt for canned pineapple, look for options in juice rather than syrup to avoid adding extra sugar. Always drain the pineapple well before adding it to the marinade so that excess liquid doesn't dilute the sauce, keeping it thick and sticky.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Chicken

Ensure your skillet is preheated and the oil is shimmering before adding the chicken. This will allow for a nice sear on the meat, which not only enhances flavor but also helps keep the chicken juicy. If you notice the chicken sticking to the pan, gently scrape it with a spatula to keep it from tearing while cooking, creating a beautiful caramelization on the meat.

For even cooking and a tender texture, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. If you have a full pound of chicken, consider cooking in batches. This ensures every piece gets enough contact with the heat, cooking through in about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally but not too frequently; allowing the chicken to rest on the skillet helps it achieve those golden edges that make the dish visually appealing.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Rice

2 cups cooked jasmine rice
1/4 cup chopped green onions
Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch to create a marinade. Add the chicken and pineapple chunks to the marinade, ensuring everything is well-coated.

Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and pineapple mixture to the skillet. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

Serve

Spoon the sticky pineapple chicken over a bed of jasmine rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your tropical meal!

Pro Tips

For best results, use fresh pineapple for the marinade and garnish. This adds a vibrant flavor and enhances the tropical feel of the dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're preparing this meal in advance, the chicken can be marinated in the sauce up to 24 hours ahead, allowing the flavors to intensify. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes weeknight cooking even easier, as you can pull it out and cook it quickly when you’re ready to eat.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to bring back some moisture. If you want to freeze the dish, do so before adding the green onions and sesame seeds. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While jasmine rice provides a wonderful base, consider serving the chicken and glaze over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different texture and flavor profile. You can also add vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas to the skillet for extra color and nutrition; just throw them in during the last few minutes of cooking for a quick steam.

For added freshness, top the finished dish with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice. This brightens up the sweet and savory notes and mimics the tropical vibes that this dish inspires. Additionally, the pineapple curry can be adapted to a stir-fry by including cashews or peanuts for crunch, making it an exciting variation that keeps the meal lively.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful in this recipe.

→ Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the sticky pineapple chicken in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

You can serve it with steamed vegetables or a side salad to balance the rich flavors.