Pineapple Chicken and Rice

by
Pineapple Chicken served with rice on a plate garnished with fresh herbs

WHY MAKE THIS RECIPE

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory chicken and perfectly cooked rice. This recipe is not just a treat for your taste buds but also very simple to prepare. It’s great for a weeknight dinner when you are short on time but want something delicious and satisfying.

Using fresh, wholesome ingredients, this dish brings together a wonderful blend of flavors. The juiciness of the chicken, the sweetness of the pineapple, and the aromatic rice make for a hearty meal that everyone will love. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes to cook, making it a great option for busy days.

This recipe is also versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to cater to your family’s preferences or what you have on hand. It’s a great way to introduce new flavors to your meals and enjoy the tropics right at your dinner table.

HOW TO MAKE Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Ingredients

  • 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

DIRECTIONS

  1. Heat olive oil: Start by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Olive oil adds a great flavor to the dish and helps in cooking the ingredients evenly.

  2. Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté them until they become translucent. This will take about 2-3 minutes. The smell will be amazing!

  3. Cook the chicken: Once the onion and garlic are ready, add the cubed chicken to the pan. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it is nicely browned on all sides. It’s important to make sure the chicken is cooked thoroughly.

  4. Add red bell pepper and pineapple: Stir in the diced red bell pepper and the cubed pineapple. Cook everything for a few minutes. The pineapple will start to caramelize, giving it even more flavor.

  5. Combine with rice and broth: Next, add the jasmine rice and chicken broth to the pan. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. The broth and rice will mingle well with the pineapple and chicken, creating a rich flavor.

  6. Simmer: Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This will allow the rice to cook and absorb all the yummy flavors.

  7. Fluff and serve: After 20 minutes, remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. This step is important as it makes the rice light and fluffy. Now, your Pineapple Chicken and Rice is ready to serve!

HOW TO SERVE Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is best served hot. You can plate it up by scooping a generous amount into bowls or on plates. To garnish, consider adding some fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. It pairs nicely with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. This dish is filling on its own but complements a light side dish perfectly.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can serve it with slices of lime, giving it an extra zing when you squeeze the lime over the dish. The added acidity from the lime complements the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully.

HOW TO STORE Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Storing leftovers of Pineapple Chicken and Rice is quite simple. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before storing. Transfer the dish into an airtight container and refrigerate it. It should last about 3-4 days in the fridge. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it. Just store it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

When you are ready to eat the leftovers, you can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the dish seems dry after reheating, adding a splash of chicken broth can help bring back moisture.

TIPS TO MAKE Pineapple Chicken and Rice

  • Use fresh ingredients: The quality of ingredients can really boost the flavor of your dish, so try to use fresh chicken and ripe pineapple.

  • Don’t overcook the rice: Be careful with cooking time. Overcooked rice can become mushy, so keep an eye on it during the simmering stage.

  • Adjust sweetness: If you prefer your dish to be less sweet, you can use less pineapple. Conversely, you can add more pineapple if you love a sweet twist.

  • Season well: Don’t be shy with seasoning. A pinch of salt and pepper can enhance the flavors, and you can also sprinkle some soy sauce as it cooks for a bit more depth.

VARIATIONS

There are many ways to customize Pineapple Chicken and Rice. Here are a few ideas:

  • Different proteins: Instead of chicken breast, you can use shrimp or tofu. Both will change the flavor profile while keeping the dish light and tasty.

  • Add veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas, carrots, or snap peas for more color and nutrition.

  • Spicy version: If you enjoy some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while cooking.

  • Coconut milk: For a creamier version, you can substitute part of the chicken broth with coconut milk, which will give a lovely tropical flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires more cooking time and additional liquid. You will need to adjust the cooking time and the ratio of liquid accordingly, usually about 45 minutes instead of 20.

2. Is it okay to make this dish a day ahead?

Absolutely! Pineapple Chicken and Rice can be made a day ahead of time. It can actually taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to mingle. Just reheat it well before serving.

3. What can I serve alongside Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

This dish goes well with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or even some slices of avocado. You could also serve it with tortillas for a fun twist.

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish is a delightful, tropical-inspired meal that is easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your culinary journey!