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, cubed; 1 cup jasmine rice; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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I absolutely love this Pineapple Chicken and Rice Meal Prep! It not only fills my kitchen with the most wonderful aromas, but it also brings a burst of tropical flavor to my weekly meal prep routine. The combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and fluffy rice creates a balanced dish that’s satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it's super easy to prepare in advance, making it ideal for busy weekdays when I don't have time to cook. Join me as I show you how to create this delicious meal prep dish that’s sure to brighten your week!

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-22T07:34:10.736Z

When I first decided to make this Pineapple Chicken and Rice, I wasn’t expecting it to become a weekly staple. The balance of savory and sweet in this dish truly elevates it, making it a favorite not just for lunch but even for dinner. Cooking the chicken until it's golden and caramelized before adding the pineapple gives it a fantastic depth of flavor that blends beautifully with the rice.

I also found that letting the meal prep cool completely before storing it allows the flavors to meld even more. Additionally, I like to pack some extra pineapple on the side to have a refreshing bite mid-week. It’s just the perfect touch to keep things exciting!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The sweet and tangy pineapple complements the savory chicken perfectly.
It's a vibrant and colorful meal that makes meal prep feel special.
Leftovers taste even better, making it great for lunch the next day.

Preparation Is Key

Organizing your ingredients before you start cooking can streamline the process and enhance the overall experience. I recommend measuring out the chicken broth, soy sauce, and cutting the chicken into even-sized cubes beforehand. This ensures that each piece cooks uniformly and absorbs the delicious flavors of the marinade fully. Having everything ready allows you to focus solely on the cooking, which can make the process feel less rushed and more enjoyable.

When cooking the rice, keep an eye on the timing as it's crucial for achieving the perfect texture. If you don’t have jasmine rice on hand, basmati rice can also work; just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly. Make sure to fluff the rice gently with a fork after it's done cooking to keep it light and airy. This step prevents it from becoming too sticky or clumpy, which is important for serving alongside the chicken and pineapple.

Balancing Flavors

The interplay of flavors in this dish is what makes it truly special. Pineapple not only adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory chicken but also helps tenderize the meat due to its natural enzymes. Be mindful of the quality of your pineapple; fresh or well-drained canned options can elevate the dish significantly. If you’d like to balance out the sweetness, a splash of lime juice can brighten up the flavors even more and add a refreshing twist.

Ginger and garlic are essential aromatics that bring depth to the dish. Ensure your ginger is freshly minced for maximum potency, and if you want a stronger garlic flavor, consider roasting it lightly before adding it to the skillet. Watch for the chicken to develop a slight golden crust; this indicates a lovely caramelization that enhances the overall flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick without overpowering the dish.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients you need for a delicious meal prep experience!

Ingredients for Pineapple Chicken and Rice

1 lb chicken breast, cubed
1 cup jasmine rice
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare a fantastic meal prep dish!

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, combine the jasmine rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 7-10 minutes.

Add Pineapple and Flavors

Stir in the minced ginger, garlic, pineapple chunks, and soy sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Combine and Serve

Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet. Mix everything until well combined. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.

Enjoy your Pineapple Chicken and Rice Meal Prep! Keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will enhance the taste and tenderness of the chicken.

Storage and Reheating

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice Meal Prep can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it an excellent choice for weekly meal prep. I recommend letting the dish cool to room temperature before sealing it; this helps prevent condensation buildup, which can make the rice soggy over time. Dividing the meal into individual portions ensures quicker reheating and maintains optimal texture and flavor.

When reheating, you can use a microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, cover the container with a damp paper towel; this helps to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals, around 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway to ensure even warmth. If using the stove, add a splash of broth or water to the skillet to prevent sticking and heat on medium until warmed through, usually about 5-7 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your meal, consider serving this dish with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition. The bright green vegetables not only provide a visual contrast but they also enhance the tropical flavors of the pineapple and chicken, creating a colorful plate. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even top the dish with sliced red bell peppers or avocado for added creaminess and fiber.

For a fun twist, you can transform leftovers by making a stir-fried rice dish. Simply heat a bit of oil in a pan, add the cold leftover rice, and stir-fry with some beaten eggs, additional veggies, and a dash of soy sauce. This gives a whole new life to the Pineapple Chicken and Rice, making it vibrant and exciting for your taste buds!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid used as brown rice typically requires more water and takes longer to cook.

→ What can I substitute for pineapple?

Mango or bell peppers can be great alternatives if you're looking for a similar sweetness and texture.

→ Is this meal prep suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze this meal prep. Just ensure that it cools down completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

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

This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat it to enjoy!