Pineapple Chicken and Rice – A Sweet and Savory Tropical Delight!
If you’re craving something that’s both sweet and savory, then Pineapple Chicken and Rice is your answer. This dish is a flavorful fusion of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and the tropical sweetness of pineapple. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s easy to make, colorful, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook for about 5–7 minutes, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onions and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the oil and onions.
- Pour in the reserved pineapple juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, and ginger powder. Stir everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- While the rice is cooking, add the pineapple chunks and cooked chicken back to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Cover and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Sprinkle with green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Quick Tips:
- If you prefer a bit of extra crunch, you can add cashews or slivered almonds to the dish for added texture.
- For a more intense pineapple flavor, you can use fresh pineapple instead of canned.
- You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different variation.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbs | 56g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Sodium | 550mg |
Printable Recipe Summary:
| Pineapple Chicken and Rice | |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
FAQs
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount, as brown rice takes longer to cook.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a slight heat, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.
Q: Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! You can swap the chicken for shrimp, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
This Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is an easy way to enjoy a tropical twist on a classic dinner. It’s packed with vibrant flavors and textures, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Enjoy every bite!
