Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet & Savory Fusion – The juicy pineapple pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken, complemented by fragrant rice, creating an irresistible flavor combination.

• Colorful & Family-Friendly – Bright and inviting, the golden pineapple, red bell peppers, and green onions make this dish both tasty and visually appealing.

• Easy & Customizable – Adjust the sweetness or savory elements to match your tastes, and easily substitute ingredients to make it your own.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cubed
1 cup pineapple, cubed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
Salt & pepper, to taste
¼ cup green onions, sliced
1 tbsp sesame seeds, for garnish

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

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables
   In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

3. Add Pineapple & Rice
   Stir in the cubed pineapple and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Then, add the jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Simmer to Perfection
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fluffy.

5. Combine & Serve
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stir everything to coat it in the flavorful sauce, and heat through. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Calories: ~350 kcal per serving

Variations

• Protein Options – Swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a new take on this dish.

• Boost the Flavor – For a tangier taste, add a splash of pineapple juice or kick up the heat with a dash of chili flakes.

• Add Veggies – For extra nutrition, consider adding peas, carrots, or broccoli.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help rehydrate the rice if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, brown rice can be substituted, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure it’s tender and fully cooked.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with tofu or another plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian option.

3. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add some chili flakes, hot sauce, or finely chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.

4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving.

5. What other vegetables can I add?

You can add peas, carrots, or even zucchini to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.

6. Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, canned pineapple can be used. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the dish.

7. How can I make the rice fluffier?

Make sure not to overcook the rice. Let it rest covered for a few minutes after cooking to allow the steam to fluff it up.

8. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce.

9. Can I freeze the leftovers?

You can freeze the leftovers for up to a month. Just be aware that the rice might become slightly softer upon reheating.

10. What’s a good side dish to serve with this?

A fresh green salad or steamed broccoli would complement this dish nicely.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a deliciously simple and satisfying dish that balances sweet and savory flavors perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this meal will surely impress. Customize it to your tastes, and enjoy the tropical vibes with every bite!