Dinner

Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe

BySophie Carsel January 6, 2026January 6, 2026

Introduction

Pineapple fried rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of fresh pineapple with savory spices and tender rice. It’s a perfect quick meal that balances textures and tastes beautifully.

The image shows a white pan filled with three main layers: the base layer is brown fried rice scattered evenly across the pan, mixed with bright yellow pineapple chunks placed evenly on top, and small green peas sprinkled throughout all over. There are also light brown pieces of cooked chicken scattered across the dish, mixed with chopped green onions adding a fresh green accent. A wooden spoon is resting in the pan, partly submerged in the rice mixture. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1½ tbsp sunflower or vegetable oil
2 eggs, beaten
2 garlic cloves, crushed
Small bunch of spring onions, chopped
½ tsp Chinese five-spice powder
400g cooked long-grain rice
85g frozen peas
2 tsp sesame oil
2 tbsp low-salt soy sauce
400g fresh pineapple, roughly chopped into chunks (about ½ medium pineapple)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs, swirling them to create a thin omelette. Cook until set, then roll the omelette onto a chopping board and cut it into thin ribbons.
Step 2: Add the remaining oil to the wok and heat it. Stir in the crushed garlic, chopped spring onions, and Chinese five-spice powder. Stir-fry until fragrant and sizzling.
Step 3: Add the cooked rice, peas, sesame oil, and soy sauce to the wok. If using cooked rice from pouches, gently squeeze them before adding to separate the grains. Stir-fry over high heat until the rice is hot throughout.
Step 4: Finally, fold in the pineapple chunks and omelette ribbons, mixing gently to combine all the flavors. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use day-old rice for better texture and less clumping in the fried rice.
Swap peas for diced bell peppers or cashew nuts for added crunch.
Add a splash of fish sauce or chili flakes for a spicier kick.
Try garnishing with fresh coriander or chopped peanuts for extra flavor and texture.

Storage

Store leftover pineapple fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly in a pan or microwave until steaming hot before serving. Avoid freezing as the texture of pineapple and rice can change.

How to Serve

A white pan filled with fried rice that has three main layers: the base layer of brown fried rice grains spread evenly, mixed with bright green peas and chopped green onions scattered throughout; the middle layer of golden yellow pineapple chunks placed evenly on top of the rice; and the top layer of light brown, cooked chicken strips that are spread over the rice and pineapple. A wooden spoon is resting inside the pan, partially covered with the fried rice mixture. The pan sits on a beige cutting board which is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

While fresh pineapple offers the best texture and flavor, canned pineapple drained of its syrup can be used in a pinch. Be sure to reduce any added sugars elsewhere in the recipe to maintain balance.