Pineapple Fried Rice

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Pineapple Fried Rice

If you’re craving something sweet, savory, and just a little bit tropical—this Pineapple Fried Rice is exactly what you need. It’s one of those recipes that looks fancy, tastes amazing, and comes together so easily that it instantly becomes a weeknight favorite.

I originally made this dish on a whim with leftover jasmine rice and a can of pineapple chunks sitting in my pantry. Now it’s a go-to in my kitchen, especially when I want something fast, fresh, and full of flavor without a lot of cleanup.

Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Recipe

There’s something magical about how the juicy pineapple pairs with garlic, onion, soy sauce, and fluffy rice. The sweet-and-savory combo just works. Plus, it’s super versatile. You can add shrimp, leftover grilled chicken, tofu, or even a scrambled egg to make it a more filling meal.

It also makes the perfect side dish for grilled teriyaki chicken, coconut shrimp, or any kind of BBQ—especially in the warmer months.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Day-old jasmine rice – Leftover rice is best because it’s dry and separates beautifully when stir-fried.
• Pineapple chunks – Fresh or canned (just be sure to drain them well). Caramelizing them a bit brings out their sweetness.
• Veggies – I like using a mix of onions, peas, and carrots. Adds crunch and color!
• Soy sauce – For that umami depth.
• Fish sauce (optional) – Adds an extra punch of savory flavor, but feel free to skip it.
• Garlic + onion – Always a flavor base.
• Eggs – For richness and a little extra protein.
• Cashews or peanuts (optional) – For crunch and that Thai-inspired finish.

Let’s Make It – Step-by-Step

1. Start with aromatics: In a hot skillet or wok, sauté garlic and onions in a bit of sesame oil or vegetable oil until fragrant.
2. Add veggies + pineapple: Toss in peas, and pineapple chunks. Let the pineapple brown a bit for extra flavor.
3. Eggs go in next: Push everything to the side, scramble your eggs, then stir it all together.
4. Rice & sauces: Add your cold, day-old rice and pour in soy sauce and fish sauce. Stir-fry until everything is coated and warmed through.
5. Garnish & enjoy: Sprinkle with green onions (optional), add cashews or peanuts if you like, and serve with lime wedges.

Pro Tips:

• Don’t skip the caramelization: Letting the pineapple get golden brown in the pan adds SO much flavor.
• Use cold rice: Warm, freshly made rice will get mushy. Day-old rice = perfect texture.
• Spice it up: Add red chili flakes or sriracha if you like a little heat.

Serving Ideas

Serve your Pineapple Fried Rice right out of the skillet, or if you’re feeling fancy, scoop it into a hollowed-out pineapple half for presentation. It’s great on its own or paired with grilled meats or seafood. Leftovers? They’re even better the next day!

Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups day-old jasmine rice
• 1 tbsp sesame or vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 small onion, chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp fish sauce (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup cashews or peanuts (optional)
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and onions, and sauté until soft and fragrant.
2. Stir in bell pepper, peas, and pineapple. Cook 3–4 minutes until pineapple is lightly caramelized.
3. Push everything to one side. Scramble the eggs on the empty side of the skillet until cooked through. Mix together.
4. Add the rice, soy sauce, fish sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook until everything is hot and combined.
5. Top with green onions and cashews or peanuts. Serve with lime wedges for extra flavor.

Want to take it up a notch? Try adding grilled shrimp or serve it alongside my grilled teriyaki chicken thighs for a complete tropical dinner you’ll be making on repeat.