Sticky Pineapple Chicken with Coconut Rice & Pineapple Salsa

Looking for a nourishing dinner that’s full of flavour and ready in 30 minutes? This tropical-inspired recipe is a delicious blend of sweet, savoury and fresh – featuring juicy chicken glazed in sticky pineapple sauce, creamy coconut rice, and a vibrant pineapple salsa.

Made with wholesome ingredients like coconut aminos, fresh herbs, and real pineapple – it’s a feel-good meal the whole family will love.

Perfect for your next weeknight dinner or weekend feast!

makes: 4 | time:30 mins

For the Sticky Pineapple Chicken:

• 500g chicken thigh fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp oil (coconut or olive)
• 1 cup fresh pineapple juice (or blitzed fresh pineapple)
• 2 tbsp Nuilife Coconut Aminos
• 1.5 tbsp coconut sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• Juice of 1 lime
• Optional: pinch of chilli flakes for heat

For the Coconut Rice:

• 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup water
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: shredded coconut or kaffir lime leaf for extra fragrance

For the Pineapple Salsa:

• 1 cup fresh pineapple, finely diced
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1 small red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped (optional)
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tbsp fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped
• 1 tbsp red onion or spring onion, finely chopped

To Serve:

• Extra lime wedges
• Fresh herbs: coriander, mint or Thai basil
• Optional toppings: chopped roasted peanuts, black sesame seeds, fried shallots and toasted coconut flakes

Method

1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, coconut milk, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Let it sit (lid on) for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chicken and sear until golden (about 5–6 mins).
3. In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, coconut aminos, coconut sugar, garlic, ginger, lime juice, and chilli flakes (if using).
4. Pour sauce over chicken. Simmer for 8–10 mins until thickened and sticky, stirring occasionally to coat the chicken.
5. In a bowl, combine diced pineapple, avocado, red onion, chilli, lime juice, and coriander. Season with salt. Let it sit while everything finishes cooking so the flavours mingle.
6. Spoon coconut rice into bowls or plates. Top with sticky pineapple chicken and plenty of the fresh salsa. Garnish with herbs, lime wedges, and any optional toppings.