Discover the Joy of Pineapple Chicken Rice in Just 30 Minutes!

Get ready to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with this delightful Pineapple Chicken Rice recipe. This dish is a delicious blend of savory chicken, sweet pineapple, and fragrant rice, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful addition to your meal prep, this Pineapple Chicken Rice is sure to become a new family favorite.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Pineapple Chicken Rice

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
• 1 ½ cups halal-certified chicken broth
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (or canned, drained)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)
• 2 tablespoons halal-certified soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Pineapple Chicken Rice

Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful Pineapple Chicken Rice dish:

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat, getting it nice and hot and ready to sear that chicken to perfection.

Cook the Chicken

Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the hot oil and cook until they’re lightly browned and cooked through. Once they’re done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside for later.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they’re fragrant and the onion is translucent. The sizzling aromas will have your mouth watering already!

Add the Rice and Broth

Now it’s time to bring in the rice and chicken broth. Stir in the rice, halal-certified chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and cumin (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the rice simmer for 15-20 minutes until it’s tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Mix in the Veggies and Pineapple

Gently fold in the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, and frozen peas or mixed vegetables (if using). Let everything cook for another 5 minutes, just until heated through.

Finish and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix it in gently. Season the Pineapple Chicken Rice with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley, if desired. Serve this tropical delight warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Not only is this Pineapple Chicken Rice dish bursting with flavor, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while pineapple is rich in vitamin C, manganese, and bromelain, which can aid in digestion. The whole grains in the rice provide complex carbohydrates and fiber, and the vegetables add an extra nutritional boost. This well-balanced meal is a delicious way to support your overall health and wellness.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this Pineapple Chicken Rice recipe is its versatility. Here are some ideas for variations and substitutions to make it your own:

• Protein Alternatives: Swap out the chicken for tofu, shrimp, or even pork for a different protein option.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the chicken and use extra vegetables, tofu, or plant-based protein sources to make this dish vegetarian or vegan-friendly.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporate other seasonal vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
• Rice Varieties: Try using different types of rice, such as brown rice or quinoa, to switch up the texture and nutritional profile.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the flavors of this Pineapple Chicken Rice dish, consider pairing it with a fresh, crisp salad or some delicious spring rolls. A tropical-inspired beverage, like a pineapple-infused iced tea or a refreshing mango smoothie, would also be a perfect accompaniment. This dish works great for both casual dinners and special occasions, so feel free to get creative with your pairings.

FAQs about Pineapple Chicken Rice

How do you cook Healthy Choice pineapple chicken?

This recipe is for a homemade Pineapple Chicken Rice dish, not a pre-made Healthy Choice meal. To cook Healthy Choice pineapple chicken, simply follow the heating instructions on the package, which typically involve microwaving or baking the pre-cooked meal.

How long to keep chicken and rice?

Cooked Pineapple Chicken Rice will last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months.

How long does pineapple fried rice last in the fridge?

Pineapple fried rice, similar to this Pineapple Chicken Rice dish, will typically last 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. The pineapple and other ingredients help the dish retain its freshness and flavor during storage.

How to make chicken and rice interesting?

To make chicken and rice more interesting, try incorporating bold flavors like this recipe’s combination of soy sauce, ginger, and pineapple. You can also experiment with different seasonings, vegetables, and cooking methods to keep the dish exciting. Mixing up the protein, rice variety, and serving style can also help breathe new life into this classic meal.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Barbecue Pineapple Chicken
• Creamy Chicken, Bacon, and Spinach Pasta
• Honey Garlic Bacon Chicken Bites

Get ready to experience the tropical delights of Pineapple Chicken Rice! This vibrant and flavorful dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Dive in and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spice in every bite.

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