Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that seamlessly blends sweet and savory flavors, making it a family favorite. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a summer gathering, and the combination of tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and fluffy rice captured everyone’s hearts. What makes this dish so appealing is its ability to transport your taste buds to tropical lands, all while being incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe promises satisfaction on all fronts.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets Pineapple Chicken and Rice apart from other weeknight meals is its incredible ease and quick preparation time. With fresh or canned pineapple, this meal is not only budget-friendly but also a crowds-pleaser that’s bound to delight kids and adults alike. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the bright flavors make it an excellent choice for summer BBQs or family gatherings.

"This dish has become a staple in our household! The blend of pineapple with chicken and rice is perfection—not too sweet and just so appealing to everyone."

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Cooking Pineapple Chicken and Rice is simpler than you might think! This recipe is all about layering flavors and letting them meld beautifully together. You’ll start by browning the chicken, followed by infusing it with garlic and ginger. Next, you’ll add the rice along with the chicken broth and pineapple, then let it all simmer until cooked to perfection. In just six simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.

Gather Your Ingredients

To whip up this dish, you’ll need:

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions for garnish

Note: You can easily substitute brown rice for white rice if that’s what you have on hand, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Preparation Steps

1. In a large pan, heat some oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
3. Stir in garlic powder and minced ginger to add layers of flavor.
4. Pour in the rice, chicken broth, pineapple chunks, and soy sauce.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
6. Finally, fluff with a fork, garnish with green onions, and serve hot.

Perfect Pairings for Pineapple Chicken and Rice

This dish is fantastic on its own, but there are several ways to elevate the meal further. Consider pairing it with a light cucumber salad or steamed broccoli to add a fresh crunch. A chilled glass of iced tea or a fruity mocktail can also complement the flavors beautifully.

If you want to make it a more substantial meal, serve it with some crispy spring rolls or egg rolls on the side.

Best Way to Store Pineapple Chicken and Rice

To keep your leftover Pineapple Chicken and Rice fresh, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating!

When reheating, do it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to bring back moisture, or microwave in short increments until heated through.

Pro Chef Tips

• For an extra depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Make it a one-pan wonder by adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas right before adding the rice.
• You can adjust the sweetness by using sweetened or unsweetened pineapple chunks based on your preference.

Creative Twists

There are so many ways to customize Pineapple Chicken and Rice. Try adding a splash of pineapple juice for extra sweetness or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. For a tropical twist, you might incorporate macadamia nuts or fried coconut flakes as a crunchy topping.

If you’re looking for a healthier option, swap out the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice to lighten things up while still enjoying the vibrant flavors.

Your Questions Answered

How long does this recipe take to make?

This entire dish can be prepared and cooked in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick weeknight meal.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time. Follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat on the stovetop with a small splash of chicken broth or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is not just a meal—it’s an experience waiting to happen. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to bring smiles to your table. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Pineapple Chicken and Rice

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A delightful dish that blends sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and fluffy rice.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large pan, heat some oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
3. Stir in garlic powder and minced ginger to add layers of flavor.
4. Pour in the rice, chicken broth, pineapple chunks, and soy sauce.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
6. Fluff with a fork, garnish with green onions, and serve hot.

Notes

You can substitute brown rice for white rice, adjusting cooking time accordingly. To elevate the meal, pair with a fresh cucumber salad or steamed broccoli.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken, pineapple, rice, easy recipe, family meal, quick dinner