Pineapple Chicken And Rice Meal Prep

Name: Pineapple Chicken And Rice Meal Prep
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked white rice; 1 pound chicken breast, cubed; 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Cozy Cooking

I love creating meal prep recipes that are simple yet bursting with flavor, and this Pineapple Chicken and Rice is no exception. Each bite is a delightful combination of savory chicken, sweet pineapple, and fluffy rice. I've designed this dish to be nutritious and easy to make, making it perfect for weekday lunches or quick dinners. Plus, the vibrant colors and tropical taste never fail to brighten up my meal prep routine. It’s a great way to enjoy summertime flavors all year round!

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:13:11.398Z

When I first tried this Pineapple Chicken and Rice, I was amazed at how the sweet and savory elements balanced perfectly. I chose to marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce and pineapple juice, which not only tenderized the meat but also infused it with a wonderful flavor that pairs beautifully with the rice. It’s surprisingly simple to throw together, and it keeps well throughout the week.

The key for me was adding fresh pineapple at the end of cooking; it retains its sweetness and adds a deliciously juicy texture. This dish really shines as a meal prep option because it can be made in bulk and reheats wonderfully, making every meal feel like a special occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors
Simple ingredients that come together quickly
Perfect for healthy meal prep to enjoy all week

Key Cooking Techniques

For this Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish, proper marination is crucial. Marinating the chicken for at least 20 minutes allows the flavors of the soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to penetrate deeply, enhancing the overall taste. If time permits, marinating for an hour or overnight amplifies the flavor even further. This step is essential for achieving that tender, flavor-packed chicken that complements the dish perfectly.

When it comes to cooking the chicken, using a large skillet over medium heat helps to evenly cook the chicken without overcrowding the pan. Aim for a golden-brown sear, which takes about 7-10 minutes; this adds tasty caramelization that heightens the dish's savory notes. Keep an eye on the chicken, stirring occasionally to prevent any sticking or burning.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

Fresh pineapple plays a vital role by bringing acidity and sweetness, balancing the salty soy sauce. If fresh pineapple is unavailable, canned pineapple chunks can be a quick substitute—just ensure to drain off excess juices to avoid diluting the flavors. Additionally, you can experiment with different vegetables like snap peas or carrots for added crunch and nutrition, making this dish versatile based on what you have on hand.

The use of bell pepper and broccoli not only adds vibrant colors but also provides essential vitamins. If you're looking for a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice can replace white rice, maintaining the texture while reducing carbs. Just be sure to cook it separately and add it in the final step to avoid excessive moisture.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This meal prep recipe stores beautifully in airtight containers. It can last in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it perfect for the week ahead. To reheat, simply microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Stirring halfway can ensure even heating, keeping the chicken juicy and the rice fluffy without drying out.

For serving, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice over the top just before eating for an extra zesty kick. Pairing this dish with a side salad can provide a refreshing contrast, enhancing the meal experience. You can also prepare a quick dipping sauce with soy sauce and a dash of honey for a flavorful enhancement.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this delicious Pineapple Chicken and Rice meal prep!

Ingredients

2 cups cooked white rice
1 pound chicken breast, cubed
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Now that you have everything ready, let's move on to the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Pineapple Chicken and Rice!

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and ginger. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes to enhance flavor.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 7-10 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

Add Vegetables and Pineapple

Once the chicken is cooked, add the bell pepper and broccoli. Stir-fry for 5 minutes. Then, toss in the fresh pineapple and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Combine with Rice

Fluff the cooked rice and add it to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.

Serve and Garnish

Divide the pineapple chicken and rice into meal prep containers. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before sealing the containers.

Your Pineapple Chicken and Rice meal prep is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice before serving. The acidity of the lime really brightens the dish and complements the pineapple.

Enhancing Flavor

To elevate the dish even further, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar while stir-frying, which adds a subtle acidity that brightens all the flavors. A sprinkle of chili flakes can infuse a gentle heat, complementing the sweetness of the pineapple. Experimenting with herbs such as cilantro can also introduce an aromatic layer that makes the dish more vibrant.

If you have time to plan ahead, try preparing a larger batch of the marinated chicken. You can freeze it after marination and simply thaw it the night before to cook the day of your meal prep. This not only saves time but also enhances the marinade's potency as it defrosts.

Texture Considerations

Achieving the right texture in this dish is key. Ensure that the chicken is cooked through but not overdone to maintain tenderness. The vegetables should stay crisp; the bell pepper should be vibrant without being mushy. Stir-frying them for just 5 minutes strikes the perfect balance, allowing them to remain colorful and full of flavor while still getting slightly tender.

When adding the pineapple, be careful not to overcook it. Just 2-3 minutes in the pan is sufficient to release its juices and integrate it with the chicken without turning it mushy. This step is crucial to maintaining that fresh, tropical flavor that defines the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used; however, you'll need to adjust the cooking time, as it takes longer to cook than white rice.

→ How long can I store this meal prep in the fridge?

You can store your Pineapple Chicken and Rice in the fridge for up to 4 days in airtight containers.

→ Can I freeze this meal prep?

Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini, carrots, or snap peas, to customize the dish!