Here’s a delicious recipe for Pineapple Chicken and Rice—a sweet and savory dish that combines juicy chicken, tangy pineapple, and flavorful rice for a satisfying meal.
Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice for extra fragrance)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from the canned pineapple)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional, for added color and flavor)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional, for added vegetables)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version)
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon ginger (fresh grated or ground)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional, for a fresh kick)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Season and Sear the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- Cook the Rice:
- In the same pan, add the rice and stir it around for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it. This will add flavor to the rice.
- Add the chicken broth, pineapple juice, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), honey (or brown sugar), and grated ginger. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
- Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has absorbed.
- Add Pineapple and Vegetables:
- Once the rice is almost done, add the chopped pineapple chunks, bell pepper (if using), and frozen peas to the rice. Stir to incorporate and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the pineapple is warmed through.
- Slice the Chicken:
- While the rice is finishing, slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Combine and Serve:
- Gently stir the sliced chicken into the rice mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce, salt, or pepper as needed. Optionally, squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for an extra burst of freshness.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve:
- Serve the Pineapple Chicken and Rice hot, either on its own or with a side of vegetables or a simple green salad.
Tips:
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño to the rice mixture if you like a little heat.
- Swap the Chicken: You can use shrimp, pork, or tofu instead of chicken if you prefer.
- For Extra Flavor: You can marinate the chicken in a little pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Rice Variety: Feel free to use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a different texture or to make the dish healthier.
This Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table! Enjoy!
