Pineapple Chicken and Rice: Sweet, Savory, Effortlessly Easy

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the ultimate weeknight dinner that brings together the sweet and savory flavors of succulent chicken, juicy pineapple, and fluffy rice. Whether you’re craving a tropical escape or looking to spice up your regular meal rotation, this dish delivers comfort in every bite. After experimenting with various recipes, I found that this combination of ingredients not only satisfies the taste buds but also fits perfectly into a busy schedule. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen arsenal.

Why You Should Consider This Flavorful Dish

What sets Pineapple Chicken and Rice apart is its delightful blend of flavors and ease of preparation. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s not just quick, but also budget-friendly—perfect for those hectic weeknights or lazy weekends. This dish has something for everyone: the kids will love the sweetness of the pineapple, while adults will appreciate the umami depth of soy sauce and garlic.

"My family can’t get enough of this dish! The sweet and savory balance is just right, and it takes barely 30 minutes to make. A total win for busy nights!" — A satisfied home cook

The beauty of this dish extends beyond taste. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate fresh ingredients, and its versatility means you can adapt it according to what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual dinner or serving it at a gathering, Pineapple Chicken and Rice is sure to impress.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Cooking Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a breeze! In just a few simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering meal that looks and tastes like it came from a restaurant. You’ll be sautéing chicken and vegetables, mixing a savory sauce, and stirring in rice and pineapple chunks, all while your kitchen fills with irresistible aromas.

Preparing Pineapple Chicken and Rice: Sweet, Savory, Effortlessly Easy

Here’s a quick overview of the process:

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1. Sauté chicken and garlic.
2. Prepare the savory sauce.
3. Combine everything in one pan: chicken, pineapple, and rice.
4. Simmer to blend flavors.

Ready to roll? Now, let’s look at what you need!

Gather Your Ingredients

To make Pineapple Chicken and Rice, you’ll need the following essentials:

• 1 lb Chicken Breast (or chicken thighs for more juiciness)
• 2 tbsp Olive or Sesame Oil (for sautéing)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup Soy Sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1/3 cup Pineapple Juice (use juice from canned pineapple)
• 2 tbsp Honey or Brown Sugar (maple syrup as an alternative)
• 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar (white vinegar in a pinch)
• 1 tsp Cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp of water
• 1 tbsp Water
• 1.5 cups Cooked Rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
• 1 cup Pineapple Chunks (fresh or drained canned)
• 1/2 Red Bell Pepper (diced, or substitute with others)
• 1/4 cup Green Onions (chopped; chives as a substitute)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Crushed red pepper (optional for heat)

Cooking Steps

1. Start by heating the olive or sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken breast pieces (or thighs) and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, and cornstarch mixture.
5. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the pan, stirring to coat.
6. Add the cooked rice, pineapple chunks, and diced bell pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute everything.
7. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
8. Top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Best Way to Serve This Delightful Dish

Pineapple Chicken and Rice can be served in a variety of ways to impress your family or guests. Consider adding a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal. For a refreshing touch, serve it with slices of lime or fresh cilantro on the side. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a tropical mocktail for a special occasion.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Pineapple Chicken and Rice keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. For longer storage, you can freeze individual servings; just let it cool completely before freezing. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent dryness.

Pro Chef Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pineapple and vegetables elevate the dish’s flavor.
2. Don’t Skip the Vinegar: It adds a necessary acidity that balances the sweetness.
3. Cook Rice Ahead: Preparing rice beforehand saves you time during the busy dinner hour.
4. Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to use shrimp, tofu, or any other protein that you enjoy.

Creative Twists

Why not give Pineapple Chicken and Rice a unique spin? Try adding cashews for crunch or a splash of coconut milk for creaminess. For a spicier version, toss in jalapeños or some sriracha. You can also make it a vegetarian delight by replacing chicken with hearty veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

Preparation and cooking together take about 30-35 minutes.

Can I use different types of rice?

Absolutely! White, brown, or jasmine rice all work well, depending on your preference.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

Is it safe to store leftovers?

Yes! Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and reheat them before eating.

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delicious blend of flavors and textures that can easily be adapted to suit your cravings. Happy cooking!

Pineapple Chicken and Rice

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• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Paleo

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Pin Recipe

Description

A quick and budget-friendly one-pan dish that combines succulent chicken, juicy pineapple, and fluffy rice for a delightful meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb Chicken Breast (or chicken thighs)
• 2 tbsp Olive or Sesame Oil
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup Soy Sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1/3 cup Pineapple Juice
• 2 tbsp Honey or Brown Sugar
• 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar
• 1 tsp Cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp of water
• 1 tbsp Water
• 1.5 cups Cooked Rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
• 1 cup Pineapple Chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1/2 Red Bell Pepper (diced)
• 1/4 cup Green Onions (chopped)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Crushed red pepper (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat the olive or sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken breast pieces (or thighs) and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, and cornstarch mixture.
5. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the pan, stirring to coat.
6. Add the cooked rice, pineapple chunks, and diced bell pepper, and mix well.
7. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
8. Top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

This dish can be served with a side salad or steamed vegetables. Pairs well with lime or fresh cilantro.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Pineapple Chicken, Easy Dinner, One-Pan Meal, Weeknight Dinner, Tropical Recipe