Name: 30 Minute Pineapple Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tropical Fusion
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite size pieces; 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/3 cup pineapple juice; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 shallot, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, chopped; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 1 pinch red pepper flakes; 2 tablespoons sesame oil or extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks; 1/2 small shallot, finely chopped; 1 jalapeño, seeded (optional) and chopped; Juice of 1 lime; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves; 1 avocado, diced; Cooked coconut rice (recipe to be prepared separately)

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If you’re craving a vibrant and flavorful dinner that comes together in no time, this 30 Minute Pineapple Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender chicken pieces glazed in a sweet and tangy pineapple-soy sauce, perfectly paired with creamy coconut-infused rice. This dish bursts with fresh herbs, a hint of heat, and tropical brightness that will brighten any weeknight meal. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and bold flavors that feels both exotic and comforting, making it an instant favorite for family dinners or impressing guests without spending hours cooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl filled with several small, bright yellow pineapple chunks mixed with small pieces of green herbs and some tiny bits of onion, all evenly spread in the bowl. A golden spoon rests inside the bowl, partly buried under the pineapple. Some sprigs of fresh green herbs sit on top of the pineapple, adding texture and freshness. The bowl is set on a dark wooden surface, which is changed in description to a white marbled texture, with a small bunch of green herbs blurred in the foreground. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe serves a simple but crucial role, whether it’s enhancing the sauce’s balanced sweetness or adding layers of texture and color. These fresh and pantry staples come together effortlessly to create a dish that tastes far more complex than the time it takes to prepare.

Chicken breasts (1 1/2 pounds): Cut into bite-size pieces for quick, even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
Low-sodium soy sauce (1/3 cup): Adds umami depth without overpowering the pineapple’s sweetness.
Pineapple juice (1/3 cup): Brings natural tropical sweetness that brightens the dish.
Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Enhances caramelization and balances the savory notes.
Ketchup (2 tablespoons): Introduces tangy richness and body to the glaze.
Shallots (1 + 1/2 small, chopped): Provide mild sweetness and fragrance in both the marinade and salsa.
Garlic (4 cloves, chopped): Lends a savory punch that complements the ginger and soy perfectly.
Grated ginger (1 tablespoon): Infuses the dish with warm, zesty spice.
Red pepper flakes (1 pinch): Adds just the right amount of gentle heat for complexity.
Sesame oil (2 tablespoons): Gives a toasty aroma that enhances the Asian-inspired profile.
Chopped cilantro (1/4 cup): Brings bright herbal freshness for finishing the chicken.
Fresh pineapple chunks (2 cups): Intensify the tropical sweetness and texture in the salsa.
Jalapeño, seeded and chopped (1): Offers optional but welcomed heat to the salsa.
Lime juice (juice of 1 lime): Adds zesty acidity that lifts the entire dish.
Fresh thyme leaves (2 tablespoons): Provide subtle earthiness in the salsa’s flavor profile.
Avocado (1, diced): Adds creamy richness to balance the tangy elements.

How to Make 30 Minute Pineapple Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, shallots, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes in a glass jar. This marinade is the magic that infuses the chicken with bold, balanced flavors. Pour one-third of this mixture over the chicken pieces and let them soak for at least 15 minutes—if possible, longer in the fridge for maximum flavor penetration.

Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Salsa

While the chicken marinates, mix the fresh pineapple chunks with the finely chopped shallot, jalapeño if you like heat, lime juice, and thyme leaves. This salsa is a vibrant counterpoint to the savory chicken, adding fresh, zesty brightness that elevates every bite.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and beautifully browned. Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the remaining marinade, allowing it to simmer and caramelize until it thickens into a luscious glaze about 5 more minutes. This step locks in flavor and creates that irresistible shiny coating.

Step 4: Add Cilantro and Finish

Once the sauce has thickened and glazed the chicken, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. This final burst of herbal brightness balances the savory and sweet notes, making every bite sing with freshness.

Step 5: Make the Coconut Rice

Cook your rice using coconut milk instead of water for a silky, fragrant side that perfectly complements the tangy pineapple chicken. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness from the coconut rice are essential partners to this dish.

How to Serve 30 Minute Pineapple Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe

A white plate sits on a white marbled surface filled with a layer of white rice spread evenly at the bottom. On top of the rice, there are several pieces of dark brown glazed grilled chicken, arranged mostly in the center. Scattered around the chicken are small bright yellow cubes of pineapple and light green cubes of avocado, adding color contrast. Sprigs of fresh green thyme are placed on top of the dish and a couple of lime wedges rest on the side of the plate. The overall look is tidy with pops of green and yellow against the white rice and dark chicken. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finish your plate by spooning the pineapple salsa generously over the glazed chicken and scattering diced avocado on top. A quick squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving intensifies the lively flavors and adds a refreshing zing that ties everything together beautifully.

Side Dishes

Though the coconut rice is an ideal side, consider pairing this meal with simple steamed vegetables, such as snap peas or broccoli, for extra crunch and color. A light cucumber salad with a touch of rice vinegar can also add a crisp, cooling contrast to the warm, saucy chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, try serving the chicken and rice inside hollowed-out pineapple halves or on a banana leaf for an inviting tropical presentation. Garnish plates with fresh herb sprigs or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for that extra visual and textural appeal. This dish also works great over quinoa or a bed of greens for a lighter, health-conscious twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pineapple chicken and coconut rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal again with minimal effort.

Freezing

The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to one month, but for best texture and flavor, freeze it without the salsa and avocado. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before adding fresh salsa and avocado on the side.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken over low-medium heat to avoid drying it out and stir frequently to keep the glaze glossy. The coconut rice reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or coconut milk to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor, and they work wonderfully with the sweet and savory glaze in this 30 Minute Pineapple Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe.

What can I substitute for pineapple juice if I don’t have any?

Fresh orange juice mixed with a little pineapple jam or syrup can be a good substitute that keeps the tropical sweetness intact.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe includes a pinch of red pepper flakes and optional jalapeño in the salsa, giving it a gentle kick. You can adjust or omit the peppers for a milder dish based on your preferences.

Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets without compromising flavor.

What type of rice works best with this recipe?

Long-grain jasmine rice is perfect because its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture pair beautifully with the rich coconut milk and vibrant chicken.

Final Thoughts

I’m so excited for you to try this 30 Minute Pineapple Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe. It’s one of those rare dishes that packs incredible flavor and freshness into half an hour, making weeknight dinners both exciting and effortless. The bright pineapple accents, creamy coconut rice, and bold glaze on the chicken bring homemade elegance without the fuss — a true joy to share with family or friends any day of the week.