Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a flavorful, one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and savory seasonings with fluffy rice. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and delivers a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy one-pan meal – Less cleanup and simple preparation.
• Sweet and savory combination – A perfect balance of flavors.
• Great for meal prep – Stores and reheats well.
• Versatile – Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Kid-friendly – A mild and tasty dish the whole family will enjoy.

this Recipe

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
• Cooked rice (white or brown)
• Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• Soy sauce
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, grated
• Onion, diced
• Bell peppers, chopped
• Chicken broth
• Olive oil
• Honey
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add garlic, ginger, and diced onions. Cook until fragrant.
3. Add vegetables and pineapple: Stir in bell peppers and pineapple chunks. Cook for a few minutes to combine the flavors.
4. Make the sauce: Pour in soy sauce, honey, and chicken broth. Stir well and let simmer for a few minutes.
5. Combine with rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet and mix everything together. Let it cook for a couple of minutes to absorb the flavors.
6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or extra red pepper flakes for heat.
• Teriyaki Flavor: Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a richer taste.
• Protein Swap: Try shrimp, tofu, or beef instead of chicken.
• Grain Alternative: Substitute quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Extra Crunch: Top with cashews or peanuts for added texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, canned pineapple works well. Drain it before adding to the dish.

What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Jasmine or basmati rice works great, but you can use any variety you prefer.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and store it in the fridge for easy meal prep.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.

What vegetables can I add?

Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots make great additions.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, sauté the chicken first, then add the ingredients and pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Use day-old rice or let freshly cooked rice cool before adding to the dish.

What sauce pairs well with this dish?

Sweet chili sauce, teriyaki sauce, or extra soy sauce enhance the flavors.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delicious, easy meal that combines sweet and savory flavors in a single skillet. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping for the week, this dish is a surefire hit. Try it today and enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal!

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