Chicken and Pineapple Fried Rice

The first time I tossed fresh pineapple into fried rice, I wasn't sure how the family would react. But one bite in, and everyone was hovering over the skillet with bowls in hand. The pineapple gets a little caramelized, a little golden, and adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the savory rice and chicken.

This is one of those recipes I come back to again and again for busy weeknights. It's quick, colorful, loaded with veggies, and reheats beautifully (a huge win for meal prep). I often make a big batch on Sunday and portion it out for the week. It never lasts long!

Before You Get Started

Here are a few handy things to know before you start cooking so the whole process feels easy and stress-free.

• Use day-old rice if you can. Fried rice turns out crispier and less sticky when the rice is fully cooled and dried out.
• Fresh pineapple gives the best flavor. If you only have canned pineapple, choose the kind packed in juice (not syrup) and pat it very dry before cooking.
• Low-sodium soy sauce is your friend. It's easier to control the saltiness of the dish, especially since flavors concentrate when cooked at high heat.
• Frozen veggies go straight from freezer to pan. No thawing needed! They'll cook quickly in the hot skillet.
• Have everything chopped and ready to go. Once the skillet is hot, the recipe moves fast, so prepping ahead helps everything come together smoothly.

How to Make Chicken and Pineapple Fried Rice

Here's how to pull everything together quickly and easily.

1. Cook the eggs

Scramble the eggs in a bit of oil, breaking them into soft pieces, then transfer them to a plate.

Tip: Pull the eggs off the heat while they're still glossy. They'll finish cooking when stirred back in.

2. Sauté aromatics and veggies

Heat more oil, then add green onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant. Stir in pineapple and vegetables so they begin to soften and lightly brown.

3. Add the rice and chicken

Stir in the rice, pressing it into the skillet so it crisps lightly on the bottom before tossing. Add the cooked chicken and cashews.

4. Finish with eggs and soy sauce

Add the scrambled eggs back in and season with soy sauce, adjusting to taste.

Tip: If the rice looks dry, add a small splash of soy sauce or a drizzle of oil.

Recipe Tips & Tricks

Here are some of the best little tips to help your fried rice turn out perfectly every single time.

• Fresh pineapple caramelizes beautifully. If using canned pineapple, pat it completely dry so it browns instead of getting watery.
• Toast your cashews before adding them. A quick toast in a dry skillet brings out deeper, nuttier flavor and extra crunch.
• Spread ingredients out in the pan. Pineapple, veggies, and rice caramelize best when they have direct contact with the heat.
• Add soy sauce around the edges of the skillet. Letting it hit the hot pan helps it sizzle, caramelize slightly, and mix more evenly.
• Use fresh garlic and ginger whenever possible. Their brightness gives the fried rice that classic, restaurant-style aroma. Dried versions work, but the flavor will be milder.
• Use whatever veggies you have. I like to use peas, carrots, bell peppers, and onions in this dish. However, this can be made with any combination of vegetables you like or have on hand.
• Customize the flavor with heat or sweetness. A drizzle of sriracha adds spice, or a squeeze of lime brightens everything without making it too sweet.
• Make it fit your needs. Leave out the chicken and eggs to keep it vegan, swap soy sauce for tamari to make it gluten-free, or use cauliflower rice for a grain-free/paleo version.
• Serve it in a hollowed-out pineapple for fun. It's an easy presentation trick that instantly makes the dish feel special and family-friendly.

Storage & Reheating

Here's how to store and reheat your fried rice so it stays fresh and delicious.

• Store in the fridge: Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for 5–7 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in airtight bags or containers for up to 6 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet for the best texture, or microwave in short intervals, stirring halfway.
• Leftovers: Use in lettuce wraps, stuffed peppers, or mix into Asian Noodle Bowls!

What to Serve With Chicken and Pineapple Fried Rice

While this dish is both delicious and satisfying all on its own, there are a number of side dishes you can pair with it for a family meal or dinner party. Side dishes like egg rolls, soups, and roasted vegetables are usually my go-to choices. If you're in need of a little inspiration, here are some of my favorite side dishes to pair with fried rice:

• Fresh Spring Rolls
• Baked Egg Rolls
• Stir Fried Chinese Broccoli
• Sesame Chicken
• Firecracker Shrimp
• Hoisin Pork Tenderloin