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: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 2 cups cooked rice; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup green peas; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Effortless Food Ideas

I love preparing Pineapple Chicken and Rice for meal prep because it's a vibrant and satisfying dish. The combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and fluffy rice creates a delicious balance of flavors. I find it incredibly convenient for busy weeks, as the meal is quick to make and keeps well in the fridge. Each bite reminds me of tropical vacations, and it always brightens my day. Whether I'm prepping for lunch or dinner, this recipe never disappoints!

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:34:08.738Z

When I first discovered the joy of adding pineapple to savory dishes, I was amazed by how it enhanced the flavor profile of my meals. I decided to experiment with chicken and rice, and the result was nothing short of spectacular. The sweetness of the pineapple balanced beautifully with the savory elements, creating a dish that feels both exotic and comforting.

One particular tip I found helpful was to marinate the chicken in a mix of soy sauce and pineapple juice. This not only infuses the meat with flavor but also helps it stay tender during cooking. Trust me, the juicy burst of pineapple in every bite makes all the difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory harmony with every bite
Quick and easy to prepare for busy schedules
Tropical flavors that energize your meal planning

Ingredient Insights

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the chicken, which absorbs the flavors of the soy sauce, garlic, and ginger during marination. Be sure to use fresh chicken breast to ensure tenderness and avoid any dry texture. If you're in a rush, you can also use chicken thighs, which have a bit more fat and can add a richer flavor.

The pineapple not only adds sweetness but also brings a hint of acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken. For best results, use fresh pineapple when possible, as it offers a brighter flavor profile compared to canned. If using canned pineapple, ensure to drain it well to prevent excess liquid from making the rice too mushy.

Cooking Technique Tips

When sautéing the chicken, I recommend using a large skillet to allow for even cooking and browning. Heat the olive oil until shimmering but not smoking; you want it hot enough for the chicken to sizzle upon contact. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than searing. Cook in batches if necessary, which helps achieve that beautiful golden color on the chicken.

Once all the protein is cooked, adding the bell pepper and peas provides both color and texture. Cook these just until they are tender-crisp, maintaining their vibrant color and nutrients. This should take around 5 minutes; you'll notice the peppers becoming glossy, indicating they are ready for the next steps.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious Pineapple Chicken and Rice Meal Prep!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
2 cups cooked rice
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup green peas
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure to adjust the quantities depending on your meal prep needs.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Pineapple Chicken and Rice Meal Prep!

Marinate Chicken

In a bowl, combine diced chicken, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and sauté until fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the red bell pepper and green peas, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Combine Ingredients

Add the pineapple chunks and cooked rice to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

Season and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve in meal prep containers and top with chopped green onions.

Your delicious Pineapple Chicken and Rice is ready to be enjoyed throughout the week!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, include some chopped cilantro or basil before serving. You can also replace chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. To store, simply portion each serving into airtight containers, ensuring the chicken and rice are evenly distributed among them. If you want to extend the shelf life, consider freezing the portions. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. Just be sure to cool the dish completely before sealing it to avoid freezer burn.

When you're ready to enjoy your meal, reheating can be done in the microwave or on the stovetop. If microwaving, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. On the stovetop, add a splash of water to the skillet, cover, and stir occasionally until warmed through. This prevents the rice from drying out while allowing everything to heat evenly.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving this dish is flexible! You can serve it as is, or pair it with a fresh salad to add a refreshing crunch alongside the savory chicken. A simple cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette works wonderfully. You might also consider adding some crushed peanuts or cashews on top for a delightful crunch and extra protein.

For flavor variations, try adding chopped cilantro or fresh basil right before serving for an herbal note. Alternatively, if you enjoy heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers when cooking the chicken. This adds a spicy kick that balances out the sweetness of the pineapple, elevating the dish even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice works great, but it may require a longer cooking time.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to mix in any of your favorite veggies like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas!