Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pineapple Chicken and Rice offers the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. The combination of juicy pineapple, tender chicken, and fragrant jasmine rice is mouthwatering, while the soy sauce and ginger infuse the dish with savory depth. The addition of green onions and sesame seeds takes the dish to the next level with crunch and freshness. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that doesn’t compromise on taste, and it’s ready in just about 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
• 1 cup pineapple, cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the jasmine rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Once the rice is cooked, stir in the cubed pineapple and the cooked chicken. Let it heat through for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Remove from heat and top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables such as carrots, peas, or broccoli to increase the nutritional value and add more flavor.
• Spicy Kick: If you like heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the dish for an extra punch.
• Vegan Version: Swap the chicken breast for tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegan-friendly version.
• Rice Substitute: If you prefer a different type of rice, you can use brown rice or quinoa as an alternative to jasmine rice, though the cooking time may vary.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or on the stove with a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent the rice from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple works perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to cut it into cubes before adding it to the dish.

How can I make the rice fluffier?

To achieve fluffier rice, make sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch. This will help the rice cook up light and separate.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also works well for meal prep.

Can I use another type of rice besides jasmine rice?

Yes, you can substitute jasmine rice with basmati or long-grain rice, though cooking times may differ slightly.

How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes, chili paste, or sriracha sauce to the dish to give it a spicy kick.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs would be a great alternative to chicken breasts. They are more flavorful and juicy but may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Can I make this dish in a rice cooker?

Yes, you can make this dish in a rice cooker. Simply follow the same steps for sautéing the chicken and vegetables, then transfer everything to the rice cooker and cook according to the rice cooker’s instructions.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Can I add more pineapple to this dish?

Absolutely! If you love the sweet flavor of pineapple, feel free to add more to your dish.

How do I keep the rice from sticking to the pan?

To prevent the rice from sticking, make sure to use enough liquid and avoid stirring the rice too often while it cooks. You can also use a non-stick skillet for easier cleanup.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines the savory goodness of chicken with the sweetness of pineapple, all served on a bed of fragrant jasmine rice. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pan meal that offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to spice up your meal rotation, this dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and delicious taste.

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