Create a Flavorful Pineapple Chicken and Rice in Just 30 Minutes!

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a mouthwatering, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for bringing a taste of the tropics to your dinner table. This one-pan wonder combines juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and fragrant jasmine rice, all simmered in a savory soy and ginger sauce. It’s a delightful fusion of sweet and savory that will transport your taste buds to a tropical island oasis, no passport required!

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Pineapple Chicken and Rice

• 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 grated ginger
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delightful one-pan dish that comes together quickly and easily. Here’s how to make it:

First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until they’re softened, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the cubed pineapple and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Next, add the jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, and grated ginger to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together to combine the flavors. Serve the Pineapple Chicken and Rice garnished with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a delicious and visually appealing presentation.

Tips for Perfecting Pineapple Chicken and Rice

To ensure your Pineapple Chicken and Rice turns out absolutely perfect, here are a few expert tips:

• Browning the Chicken: Taking the extra step to brown the chicken before adding it to the skillet adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish. Don’t skip this important step!
• Adjusting Flavors: Taste the dish as you go and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce, ginger, or salt and pepper to suit your personal preferences.
• Dietary Considerations: For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. To make it lower in carbs, swap the jasmine rice for cauliflower rice.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Pineapple Chicken and Rice is an excellent dish for meal prepping. Simply allow it to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Variations on Pineapple Chicken and Rice

While the classic Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a real crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this versatile dish:

• Veggie-Packed: Add diced carrots, snow peas, or broccoli florets to the skillet for extra nutrition and color.
• Protein Swap: Swap the chicken for shrimp or cubed tofu for a seafood or vegetarian version.
• Grain Swap: Use quinoa or brown rice instead of jasmine rice for a different whole grain twist.
• Spicy Spin: Stir in a tablespoon of chili paste or sriracha for a delightful kick of heat.

What to Serve with Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the dish, here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, or snow peas
• A fresh, tropical-inspired salad, like a pineapple, cucumber, and mint salad
• Crispy egg rolls or crunchy wonton chips for added texture
• Refreshing iced tea, lemonade, or a tropical cocktail, like a pineapple mojito

Storing and Reheating Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is an excellent dish for meal prep and leftovers. Once the dish has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the portions in the microwave and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out.

For longer-term storage, Pineapple Chicken and Rice can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. When ready to enjoy, thaw the portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs About Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Can I make Pineapple Chicken and Rice in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can definitely prepare Pineapple Chicken and Rice in a slow cooker! To do this, start by browning the chicken in a skillet for added flavor, then transfer it to the slow cooker along with diced pineapple, vegetables, soy sauce, ginger, and chicken broth. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the rice separately according to package instructions and stir it into the slow cooker to combine all the flavors. This method allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and infuses the rice with the dish’s sweet and savory flavors.

What is the best way to cut the chicken for this dish?

When preparing Pineapple Chicken and Rice, it’s best to cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. This size allows the chicken to cook evenly and quickly, ensuring that it remains juicy and tender. Additionally, cutting the chicken into smaller pieces helps it absorb the flavors of pineapple and sauce more effectively. For added tenderness, you may also consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

Can I prepare Pineapple Chicken and Rice in advance for meal prep?

Absolutely! Pineapple Chicken and Rice is an excellent dish for meal prep. You can cook the entire dish ahead of time, allowing it to cool completely before portioning it into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. For best results, add a splash of water or broth while reheating to prevent the rice from becoming dry.

How can I make Pineapple Chicken and Rice healthier?

To make Pineapple Chicken and Rice healthier, consider the following modifications: use skinless chicken breast to reduce fat content, substitute brown rice or quinoa for jasmine rice for added fiber and nutrients, and increase the amount of vegetables, like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli, to boost the dish’s nutritional profile. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of soy sauce to lower sodium levels or use a low-sodium soy sauce alternative. Finally, using fresh pineapple instead of canned can decrease added sugars and enhance the dish’s freshness.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Barbecue Pineapple Chicken
• Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken Bites
• Pineapple Cucumber Salad

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delightful fusion of sweet, savory, and tropical flavors that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its easy preparation, versatility, and incredible taste, this one-pan dish is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Grab your skillet and get ready to transport your taste buds to a flavorful island paradise!

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