Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

Name: Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old); 1 cup diced chicken breast; 1 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned); 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red and green); 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fast Weeknight Recipes

I've always loved the combination of sweet and savory, which is why Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice is a dish I often make at home. The juicy chunks of pineapple blend perfectly with tender chicken and fragrant jasmine rice. This dish is vibrant and packed with flavor, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or meal prep. I enjoy tossing in some colorful bell peppers and green onions to add extra crunch and freshness. It’s a delightful twist on traditional fried rice that my whole family enjoys!

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2026-01-30T04:49:28.241Z

When I first tried making Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice, I was surprised at how simple it was. The key is to use day-old rice; it's dryer and helps to achieve that perfect fried texture. I always keep some cooked rice in the fridge for recipes like this one.

As I perfected my recipe, I discovered that marinating the chicken in soy sauce and sesame oil not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the meat moist during cooking. Adding the pineapple towards the end prevents it from getting mushy, allowing its sweetness to shine through beautifully!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A perfect blend of sweet pineapple and savory chicken
Quick and easy to prepare in just 35 minutes
Great for leftover rice and meal prepping

Key Cooking Techniques

Getting the perfect texture in your fried rice boils down to using the right type of rice. Day-old jasmine rice is ideal because it's drier and allows for better separation during cooking. If you don't have leftover rice, cook your jasmine rice and let it cool spread out on a plate for at least 30 minutes. This prevents clumping and allows the grains to stay fluffy during stir-frying.

Stir-frying is the heart of making great fried rice. Use a large skillet or wok so that you have enough surface area for even cooking. Make sure your skillet is preheated like I do, which creates a non-stick surface and enhances that coveted wok hei – the smoky flavor from high heat. Keep your heat at medium-high; if it’s too low, the ingredients will steam instead of fry.

Flavor Enhancements

The balance of flavors in Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice comes from the combination of sweet, savory, and aromatic elements. The soy sauce adds depth while the sesame oil provides a nutty aroma. If you want a little heat, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when stir-frying the garlic and peppers. This contrast of flavors will elevate the dish and bring an exciting punch to the taste profile.

For added freshness, consider mixing in some chopped cilantro or basil right before serving. These herbs can brighten the overall flavor, making each bite even more enjoyable. If you're feeling adventurous, a splash of lime juice just before serving can add a zesty twist that complements the pineapple beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother!

Ingredients

2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
1 cup diced chicken breast
1 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned)
1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
1/4 cup chopped green onions
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to mix in other vegetables like peas or carrots based on your preferences!

Instructions

Before you begin, it’s important to have all your ingredients prepped. This will save you time while cooking!

Cook the Chicken

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

Add Vegetables and Garlic

Add the minced garlic and diced bell peppers to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Incorporate Rice and Pineapple

Add the cooked rice and pineapple to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through.

Finish with Green Onions

Remove from heat and stir in the chopped green onions. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot!

For best results, serve immediately while it's hot and fresh!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce according to your taste preference. This dish also pairs well with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad.

Storage and Meal Prep

Leftover Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the quality, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to ensure even warming. If the rice seems dry, add a splash of water or soy sauce to revitalize it.

For meal prep, you can double the recipe and portion it into meal containers for easy grab-and-go lunches. This dish retains its flavor well, making it great for eating cold or reheated. Just remember that reheating with a little moisture will help keep the rice from becoming too dry.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe based on what you have on hand! If you prefer shrimp instead of chicken, simply sauté them until pink and opaque, then follow the same steps. Alternatively, a vegetarian version can be created by omitting the chicken and adding tofu or chickpeas for protein.

For a tropical twist, you could incorporate additional ingredients like diced mango or shredded carrots. These not only add color but also contribute to a sweeter flavor profile. Additionally, carrots give a nice crunch while taking minimal time to cook—a perfect fit for the quick preparation of this dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used. Just note that the texture might be slightly different and the cooking time may be longer.

→ Can this dish be made vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with tofu or extra vegetables and omit the soy sauce for a vegetarian-friendly option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

→ Can I freeze Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.