Pineapple Chicken Rice Meal Prep

Name: Pineapple Chicken Rice Meal Prep
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups jasmine rice; 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cubed; 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 green onions, chopped

Highlighted under: Smart Quick Meals Inspiration

I love meal prepping because it saves me time during my busy week, and this Pineapple Chicken Rice is a vibrant, tasty option that I can’t get enough of. When I combine sweet pineapple with tender chicken and fluffy rice, I get a balanced dish that brightens my lunch break. The tangy flavors and tender texture make it a delight to eat. With a little effort on the weekend, I can create multiple delicious meals that keep me excited about what I’m eating, rather than resorting to takeout.

Created by

Honoria Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-15T07:13:36.317Z

When I first made this Pineapple Chicken Rice, I knew I was on to something special. The combination of juicy pineapple and seasoned chicken not only added a delightful sweetness but also elevated the flavor profile beyond the ordinary. I found that marinating the chicken enhances its tenderness and allows the pineapple to infuse its sweetness into every bite.

One key detail I discovered is to use jasmine rice for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture. Cooking it separately and then mixing everything together ensures each grain is perfectly coated with those vibrant flavors. This dish has quickly become a staple in my meal prep routine!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory combination that excites the palate
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal preps
Packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

Using jasmine rice adds a fragrant note to this Pineapple Chicken Rice, but the cooking technique matters. It's essential to rinse the rice thoroughly; this step removes excess starch that can make your rice gummy. After rinsing, allow the rice to soak for about 20–30 minutes, which can enhance its texture and promote even cooking. When cooking, consider using a rice cooker if you have one—it takes the guesswork out of timing!

For best results, monitor the water-to-rice ratio. Traditionally, a 1:1.5 ratio is ideal, but depending on your saucepan or rice cooker, you might need to adjust slightly. Once cooked, let the rice sit covered for 10 minutes before fluffing it with a fork. This resting period allows steam to escape and makes the grains light and airy.

Flavor Pairing Insights

The harmony of sweet pineapple and savory chicken is established through the balance of flavors in the marinade. Soy sauce contributes umami, while honey adds a luxurious sweetness that complements the acidity of pineapple. If you're looking to reduce sugar, feel free to substitute the honey with coconut aminos, which offers a similar sweet-salty vibe with a lower glycemic index.

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. This will introduce a subtle heat that plays well against the sweetness of the dish. If you'd like to experiment further, cilantro or basil can be used as fresh herb toppings, providing an aromatic twist that elevates the overall dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice

2 cups jasmine rice
1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cubed
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

Cook the Rice

Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook rice according to package instructions, typically using 1 part rice to 1.5 parts water.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked (about 8-10 minutes).

Add Pineapple

Add fresh pineapple chunks to the skillet and stir-fry for another 5 minutes until heated through.

Combine with Rice

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork, then add it to the chicken and pineapple mixture. Stir to combine well and garnish with chopped green onions.

Pro Tips

For best results, let the chicken marinate overnight to enhance the flavors further. You can also substitute other proteins like shrimp or tofu for variety.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This Pineapple Chicken Rice stores exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days without sacrificing flavor or quality. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers where they can last up to three months.

When reheating, I recommend doing so gently in a microwave-safe dish covered loosely with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for a few minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even warming.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your meal, consider a side of steamed vegetables such as broccoli or snap peas. Their crisp textures and vibrant colors create a beautiful contrast to the soft chicken and rice. Alternatively, serve the dish in lettuce wraps for a fun, low-carb twist that also adds a crunchy texture.

If you wish to add some creaminess, a drizzle of coconut cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt can introduce a delightful contrast against the sweet and savory elements. Garnishing with lime wedges can also brighten the dish, enhancing the tropical flavor while offering an interactive element to your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, canned pineapple works well. Just be sure to drain it before adding to the skillet.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze the meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

→ What side dishes pair well with this meal?

This dish is complete on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.