Airfryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary Notes: High-protein, gluten-free (if using GF soy sauce)

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)

• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp ginger, grated

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)

For the Rice:

• 1.5 cups jasmine rice (or white/brown rice)

• 2.5 cups water or chicken broth

• 1 tbsp butter or oil

• ½ tsp salt

For Garnish (Optional):

• 2 green onions, sliced

• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

• Fresh cilantro

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Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.

2. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor).

3. Stir in cornstarch to thicken the sauce while cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

1. Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear.

2. In a pot, heat butter or oil, then add rice and lightly toast for 1 minute.

3. Add water or broth and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes (or follow package instructions).

4. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken & Pineapple

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.

2. Place chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed).

3. Air fry for 10 minutes, shaking halfway.

4. Add pineapple chunks and cook for another 5 minutes until chicken is crispy and pineapple is caramelized.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

1. Divide rice among bowls.

2. Top with pineapple chicken and drizzle with extra sauce.

3. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

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Tips & Variations

✅ Meal Prep: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✅ Spicier Version: Add sriracha or extra red pepper flakes.
✅ Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken.
✅ Extra Crunch: Add cashews or peanuts for texture.

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Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors with minimal effort. The air fryer ensures crispy chicken and caramelized pineapple, while the rice soaks up all the delicious sauce. Quick, healthy, and packed with protein—this dish is a winner for weeknight dinners!