Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken & Rice

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When I first made this Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken & Rice, I was chasing a flavor that reminded me of sunshine on a plate. I wanted something vibrant, savory, and just a little sweet, with a depth that comes from caramelized sauces and the warmth of grilled pineapple. What I ended up with was a dish that not only delivers that burst of tropical flavor but does so in a way that’s deeply comforting and filling.

The moment the skillet sizzles with marinated chicken and the scent of fresh pineapple starts to caramelize, something magical happens. This isn’t just dinner. It’s a dish that immediately transports you to a breezy island vibe, even if you’re right in the middle of a hectic weeknight. I’ve made this for my family on rotation and it’s one of those meals that never gets old. The balance of tangy, sweet, and savory is just irresistible.

I also love how versatile it is. You can serve it over jasmine rice, sticky rice, or even cauliflower rice if you’re keeping it light. And the sauce? It’s gold. Sticky, rich with soy and honey, punched up with garlic and ginger, and perfectly rounded by the natural sweetness of pineapple. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s a showstopper. Honestly, this one deserves a permanent spot in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken & Rice

This recipe is all about combining fresh, bold flavors in a way that’s super satisfying. You’ll love how the chicken gets perfectly seared with a sticky glaze that clings to each bite. The pineapple adds a juicy pop that contrasts beautifully with the savory soy-garlic sauce. Plus, it’s a quick recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor—perfect for busy evenings or spontaneous get-togethers.

Not to mention, it’s a total crowd-pleaser. Kids, picky eaters, and even spice lovers can all find something to enjoy here. It scales up beautifully, too, making it ideal for meal prep or feeding a table full of hungry guests. And those golden caramelized bits of pineapple? Worth every bite.

How to Make the Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by cutting boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, a splash of rice vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil. Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple and Veggies
Cut fresh pineapple into small chunks and dice some red bell peppers. You can also slice green onions for garnish. If you’re using canned pineapple, make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Let it caramelize slightly—those bits of flavor make a big difference.

Step 4: Add Pineapple and Peppers
Toss in the pineapple and red bell peppers. Cook for another 4–5 minutes, just until the pineapple begins to caramelize and the peppers soften.

Step 5: Finish with Sauce
Pour in any reserved marinade and let it simmer until thickened into a glossy sauce. Stir everything to coat well.

Step 6: Serve Over Rice
Spoon the chicken and pineapple mixture over freshly steamed rice, then sprinkle with green onions for a fresh finish.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re out of chicken thighs, chicken breasts will work just as well. Want to make it vegetarian? Swap in tofu or tempeh and be sure to press out excess moisture before marinating.

For added heat, mix in sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also swap out red bell peppers for orange or yellow ones for a different color profile. Canned pineapple can be used in place of fresh, just make sure it’s packed in juice and not syrup.

Not a fan of soy? Tamari or coconut aminos are excellent gluten-free alternatives. You can even use cauliflower rice to keep the dish low-carb without sacrificing satisfaction.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken & Rice is a dish that doesn’t need much to shine, but a few smart pairings can turn it into a complete island-inspired meal. I love serving it over fluffy jasmine rice, but it also works beautifully with coconut rice for an extra tropical twist. If you’re looking to round out the plate, a side of lightly steamed snap peas or a crisp cucumber salad brings a refreshing contrast.

A splash of lime juice just before serving adds brightness that lifts all the sweet-savory flavors. And for a truly immersive experience, serve it alongside a chilled glass of pineapple iced tea or a lightly sweetened mango lemonade. If you’re making this for guests, grilled corn or a mango salsa on the side adds that extra wow factor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats very well in a microwave or over low heat in a skillet—just add a splash of water to loosen up the sauce. Avoid freezing if you’re using fresh pineapple, as it can become watery once thawed. However, if you plan to freeze it, use canned pineapple and allow the dish to cool completely before freezing in portions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my go-to because they stay juicy and flavorful, but breasts work well too if you prefer a leaner cut.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Just make sure it’s canned in juice and not syrup, and drain it thoroughly to avoid watering down the sauce.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild by default, but you can easily turn up the heat with chili flakes or a bit of sriracha.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not automatically, but you can make it gluten-free by swapping the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Definitely. You can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance and even prep the pineapple and peppers so dinner comes together quickly when you need it.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re into tropical-inspired dinners like this Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken & Rice, you should definitely check out my Hawaiian BBQ Chicken for that same sweet and savory vibe with a bold, grilled twist. Another personal favorite is this Pineapple Cheese Pie that makes the perfect dessert follow-up to a fruity chicken dish. And if you’re in the mood for something equally vibrant but with a creamy finish, this Easy Creamy Polenta Shrimp Recipe might be just what you’re craving.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t let this recipe slip through the cracks—make sure to save it for your next meal plan! Pin this Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken & Rice recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s always within reach. Got a foodie friend who loves tropical flavors? Send it their way via email or share it on Facebook. Trust me, they’ll thank you. And if you make it, tag us on Instagram to show off your delicious creation—we’d love to see it!

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