Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice

This pineapple chicken fried rice always brings a cheery blend of sweet and savory to the table It is my favorite way to use up leftover rice and turns a regular weeknight into something that feels a little more festive

Ingredients

• Cooked jasmine rice: It has a soft fragrance and stays nice and fluffy for fried rice Day old rice gives the best texture
• Diced chicken breast: Tender quick cooking and soaks up all the saucy flavors Use fresh chicken for best results
• Diced pineapple: Sweetens the whole dish and keeps every bite juicy I always use fresh but canned works in a pinch just drain really well
• Diced carrots: Add a light sweetness and pretty color Look for firm and brightly colored carrots
• Peas: Give a pop of green and a gentle sweetness Frozen peas work perfectly here
• Diced bell peppers: Add crispness and a subtle tang Use red yellow or a mix for extra color
• Garlic minced: Essential for that classic fried rice aroma and flavor Use fresh garlic for the best punch
• Soy sauce: Brings umami and a deep savory flavor Choose naturally brewed if possible
• Fish sauce: Lends a hint of funk and extra depth with just a small splash A little goes a long way
• Oyster sauce: Thick rich and full of sweet salty notes Pick a brand you trust
• Vegetable oil: Neutral and great for frying with a high smoke point Any light oil works here
• Salt and pepper: The finishing touch to bring every flavor forward Use freshly cracked pepper if you can

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat the Skillet:

Start with a large skillet over medium heat Once the skillet is hot pour in the vegetable oil Give it thirty seconds to shimmer This ensures quick even cooking

Cook the Chicken:

Scatter in the diced chicken breast Spread pieces out so they sear not steam Let them cook until no longer pink urging a light golden sear on each side This usually takes about five to six minutes Move chicken to a plate to keep it juicy

Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies:

Drop the minced garlic in first Let it sizzle and release its fragrance just a minute Watch closely since garlic burns quick Now toss in diced carrots peas and bell peppers Stir and let them cook until just tender and brightly colored This builds a flavorful colorful base

Fry the Rice:

Push all vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the cooked jasmine rice to the empty side Use a spatula to gently break up any clumps Keep the heat steady and stir both veggies and rice together letting rice warm and pick up the skillet flavors

Add Pineapple and Sauces:

Add diced pineapple to the mixture Let the pineapple caramelize just a bit while you stir Now combine soy sauce fish sauce and oyster sauce in a small bowl and pour evenly over the rice mixture Toss everything well so the rice is evenly coated Taste and season with salt and pepper

Return Chicken and Finish:

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the rice Gently fold in and let everything heat through for another two to three minutes Make sure the chicken is nestled into the rice so every bite counts

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The pineapple is always the star for me Especially when it hits the hot pan and sugars start to caramelize it brings out a flavor that makes this dish truly memorable I still remember my daughter’s face the first time she tasted it she said it was better than her favorite takeout

Storage Tips

This fried rice keeps well for three days in an airtight container in the fridge For best results let it cool before storing Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water to revive the flavors and textures Avoid microwaving if you want that perfect fried rice texture though it works in a pinch

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different spin Brown or basmati rice can work but jasmine gives the softest bite No fresh pineapple Use canned just pat it dry first For gluten free use tamari instead of regular soy sauce

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Serving Suggestions

Pineapple chicken fried rice is a meal on its own but it shines next to a crunchy cucumber salad or some sautéed greens For a dramatic presentation serve it inside a hollowed out pineapple half which always wows guests

Cultural and Historical Context

Pineapple fried rice is a well loved Thai dish that often features chewy jasmine rice chicken or shrimp and bursts of sweet and umami flavor from sauces and fruit The dish likely evolved from the Thai tradition of mixing rice with whatever is on hand making it an excellent reflection of home cooking spirit

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of rice works best?

Cooked jasmine rice is ideal for its fragrance and texture, though leftover rice also yields great results.

→ Can I substitute the chicken?

Yes, shrimp, tofu, or pork can be used as alternatives to chicken, each adding a unique flavor.

→ How do I keep fried rice from becoming soggy?

Use cold, day-old rice to prevent excess moisture and achieve a light, fluffy texture when stir-frying.

→ Is fresh or canned pineapple better?

Fresh pineapple adds vibrant sweetness and slight acidity, but drained canned pineapple can also be used.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Along with carrots, peas, and bell peppers, you can include corn, green onions, or broccoli for variation.