Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Quick Benefits

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines sweet, savory, and slightly tangy elements for a truly satisfying meal. It’s a one-pan recipe that’s easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners, and packed with lean protein, fresh veggies, and tropical flair. This dish also reheats well, making it great for meal prep!

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

Preparation Steps

  1. Cook the Chicken:
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Veggies:
    In the same skillet, add chopped onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Add Pineapple:
    Stir in the pineapple cubes and cook for 2 more minutes to let the flavors meld.
  4. Add Rice and Broth:
    Add jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  5. Simmer to Cook the Rice:
    Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 18–20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
  6. Finish and Garnish:
    Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and heat through. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Health Benefits

  • High in Protein: Lean chicken breast fuels muscle repair and keeps you feeling full.
  • Rich in Vitamins: Bell pepper and pineapple provide vitamin C and antioxidants.
  • Balanced Meal: With protein, carbs, and fiber from rice and vegetables, it’s a wholesome option.
  • Low in Processed Ingredients: Simple, whole-food components keep it clean and nourishing.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal.
  • Pair with a crisp side salad, steamed edamame, or roasted broccoli for a more rounded dinner.
  • A side of warm naan or a squeeze of lime adds even more flavor contrast.

Creative Variations

  • Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut or a splash of coconut milk for creaminess.
  • Heat It Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for spice lovers.
  • Swap Proteins: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a pescatarian or vegetarian version.
  • Brown Rice or Quinoa: Sub jasmine rice for a whole grain option.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave.
  • Reheat: Add a splash of water or broth to revive the moisture when reheating.

Pro Tips

  • Use fresh pineapple if available—it adds more flavor and less sugar than canned.
  • Let the rice rest covered for 5 minutes after cooking for fluffier grains.
  • Add chicken in batches if doubling the recipe to ensure it browns instead of steams.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! It stores well and can be prepped up to 3 days in advance.

Q: What if I don’t have jasmine rice?
A: You can use basmati or long grain rice, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Q: Can I make it in a rice cooker?
A: You can cook the rice mixture in a rice cooker and sauté the rest separately to combine later.

Q: How do I keep the chicken juicy?
A: Avoid overcooking by removing it from the skillet once it’s just done and adding it back at the end.

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