Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice (Printable Version)

Juicy pineapple, tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and veggies fused in vibrant fried rice.

# What You'll Need:

→ Proteins

01 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12.3 oz), diced
02 - 2 large eggs, lightly beaten (optional)

→ Rice

03 - 4 cups cooked jasmine rice, preferably day-old

→ Vegetables & Fruits

04 - 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
05 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
06 - 1 small carrot, peeled and diced
07 - 3 green onions, sliced
08 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
09 - ½ cup frozen peas, thawed

→ Nuts

10 - ½ cup roasted unsalted cashews

→ Sauces & Seasonings

11 - 3 tablespoons soy sauce
12 - 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
13 - 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
14 - ½ teaspoon ground white or black pepper
15 - 1½ tablespoons vegetable oil
16 - 1 teaspoon sesame oil

# How To Make It:

01 - Prepare all ingredients before starting. If using day-old rice, break up any clumps for even frying.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
03 - If using eggs, add a bit more oil if needed, pour in beaten eggs, and scramble until just set. Remove and set aside with chicken.
04 - Add remaining vegetable oil to the wok. Sauté garlic, carrot, and bell pepper for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
05 - Stir in the rice, breaking up any remaining clumps. Fry for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
06 - Add cooked chicken, scrambled eggs (if using), pineapple, peas, and most of the green onions (reserve some for garnish).
07 - Drizzle in soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce (if using), and ground pepper. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
08 - Stir in sesame oil and cashews. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
09 - Serve hot, garnished with reserved green onions.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • Uses simple, accessible ingredients you likely already have on hand
  • Naturally dairy-free and easily adaptable to vegetarian or gluten-free diets
  • The sweet-savory flavor profile appeals to both kids and adults
  • A complete meal in one bowl with protein, vegetables, and grains
  • Makes excellent use of day-old rice, reducing food waste
02 -
  • Always use day-old rice for the best texture—freshly cooked rice will turn mushy
  • Keep your wok or skillet screaming hot throughout cooking for authentic flavor
  • Add the sauces around the edges of the wok, not directly on the rice, to prevent sogginess
  • Reserve the cashews until the very end to maintain their crunch
  • Taste before serving and adjust with more soy sauce, pepper, or sesame oil as needed
  • Fresh pineapple adds brighter flavor than canned, though both work well
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