Pineapple Fried Rice

Pineapple Fried Rice is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory chicken and aromatic vegetables. This tropical-inspired recipe is sure to add a burst of flavor to your dinner table.

Why Make Pineapple Fried Rice

Pineapple Fried Rice offers a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and create a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

How to Make Pineapple Fried Rice

Prepare Cooked Rice: Cook 4 cups of rice according to package instructions. Spread the rice on a baking sheet to cool and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Cook Chicken: Cut boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and thoroughly cooked, about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of coconut oil. Sauté chopped yellow onion, chopped green bell pepper, chopped red bell pepper, minced garlic clove, and grated fresh ginger until softened and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce and honey. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.
Combine Ingredients: Add the chilled cooked rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat evenly with the sauce and vegetables.
Add Pineapple and Peas: Stir in cubed pineapple and frozen peas, cooking until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Finish Dish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, squeezing the juice of 1 small lime over the dish. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Before serving, top with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pineapple Fried Rice hot, garnished with additional lime wedges if desired. It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or tofu for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage Info

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain its flavors and textures.

Techniques or Tips

For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables or tofu for protein.
Customize the dish by adding other ingredients such as cashews, raisins, or shrimp for variety.
Use day-old rice for the best texture, as freshly cooked rice can become mushy when stir-fried.

Variation

For a spicier kick, add chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the dish.
Substitute other fruits such as mango or apricot for the pineapple for a different flavor profile.
Experiment with different types of rice such as jasmine or basmati for a unique twist on the recipe.

FAQs about Pineapple Fried Rice

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh? Yes, canned pineapple can be used as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to drain it well before adding it to the dish.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken? Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, pork, or even beef for a different flavor experience.
Is it necessary to chill the rice before frying? Chilling the rice helps to dry it out slightly, resulting in a better texture when stir-fried. However, if you’re short on time, you can still use freshly cooked rice for the recipe.

Pineapple Fried Rice

Ingredients:

Cooked Rice (Brown or White)
1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs
Coconut Oil
Yellow Onion
Green Bell Pepper
Red Bell Pepper
Garlic Clove
Fresh Ginger
Soy Sauce
Honey
Cubed Pineapple
Frozen Peas
Lime Juice
Green Onions
Sesame Seeds

Preparation Method:

Prepare 4 cups of cooked rice according to package instructions. Spread the rice on a baking sheet to cool and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and thoroughly cooked, about 5 to 6 minutes. Transfer cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of coconut oil. Sauté ½ chopped yellow onion, ½ chopped green bell pepper, ½ chopped red bell pepper, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 inch grated fresh ginger until softened and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of honey. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with sautéed vegetables.
Add the chilled cooked rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat evenly with the sauce and vegetables.
Stir in 1 ½ cups of cubed pineapple and ¾ cup of frozen peas, cooking until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, squeezing the juice of 1 small lime over the dish. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Before serving, top with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Serve the Pineapple Fried Rice hot, garnished with additional lime wedges if desired. Enjoy the tropical flavors and vibrant colors of this delightful dish!