Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory. The tender chicken pairs beautifully with the sweetness of pineapple, while the savory elements like soy sauce and ginger give the dish depth and complexity. The jasmine rice acts as a fragrant, delicate base, absorbing all the rich flavors. With the vibrant vegetables adding a burst of color and texture, this dish is visually appealing and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or whip up a quick meal, Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a go-to choice that everyone will love.

Pineapple Chicken and Rice

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

Step 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 through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Pineapple

Add the cubed pineapple to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, letting it warm up and release some of its juices.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Stir in the jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the flavors.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Rice

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors and ensure the chicken is heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

  • Add More Veggies: Consider adding peas, carrots, or snap peas to enhance the dish with more vegetables.

  • Spice It Up: If you prefer a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.

  • Use Brown Rice: For a healthier twist, substitute jasmine rice with brown rice. Just note that it will take a bit longer to cook.

  • Add Tofu: For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with cubed tofu for a plant-based alternative.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple is a great option! Just make sure to peel and cube it before using it in the dish.

Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breast?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative to chicken breasts.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To add some spice, you can include red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a drizzle of sriracha sauce in the dish.

Can I use a different type of rice?

While jasmine rice is the best option for its fragrant qualities, you can substitute it with basmati rice or even white rice if preferred. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

How do I know when the rice is done cooking?

The rice will be fully cooked once all the liquid has been absorbed, and the grains should be tender. If necessary, let it sit covered for a few minutes to finish cooking in its own steam.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What can I serve with Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with some crispy egg rolls for a complete meal.

Can I use coconut milk instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can replace the chicken broth with coconut milk for a creamier, slightly sweeter flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a tropical delight that combines the best of sweet and savory flavors. With juicy pineapple, tender chicken, and fragrant jasmine rice, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and take your taste buds on a flavorful journey!

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Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Pineapple Chicken and Rice

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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Description

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delicious, tropical-inspired dish that blends sweet pineapple with savory chicken and fragrant jasmine rice. Enhanced with ginger, soy sauce, and vibrant vegetables, this easy-to-make meal is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. A truly satisfying, balanced meal everyone will love!

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

Instructions

  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 through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables:
    In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the Pineapple:
    Add the cubed pineapple to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, letting it warm up and release some of its juices.
  4. Cook the Rice:
    Stir in the jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the flavors.
  5. Combine Chicken and Rice:
    Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors and ensure the chicken is heated through.
  6. Garnish and Serve:
    Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Add More Veggies: Enhance the dish with peas, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
  • Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick.
  • Use Brown Rice: Substitute jasmine rice with brown rice for a healthier twist, though it will take longer to cook.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with cubed tofu for a plant-based meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet Cooking
  • Cuisine: Asian, Fusion

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