Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that transports you to a tropical paradise with every bite. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and fragrant jasmine rice creates a symphony of flavors that pleases the palate. It’s not just tasty; it also offers a wonderful balance of protein and carbohydrates, making it a complete meal suitable for any family gathering or busy weeknight dinner.
This recipe is a one-pan wonder, which means less hassle for you in the kitchen. Who doesn’t love the ease of cooking everything in a single skillet? This not only saves on cleanup but also allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a dish where every grain of rice and every piece of chicken is infused with the sweetness of pineapple and the warmth of spices. It’s a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Moreover, it’s a seasonal and colorful recipe, making it a visual feast. The vibrant yellow of the pineapple, the bright red bell pepper, and the crunchy green onions bring life to your table. It’s easy to make, and it showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients. You will find bringing this dish together to be a satisfying and rewarding experience!
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
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Directions:
First, you will want to grab a large skillet. Heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cubed chicken. Cook this until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked; this should take about 6-8 minutes. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Next, in the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. This is where the magic happens: let these cook until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This should take about 5 minutes. Now, add the cubes of pineapple and let that cook for an additional 2 minutes. The sweetness of the pineapple mingling with the vegetables is simply divine!
Now, it’s time to add the jasmine rice and the chicken broth. Stir in the soy sauce, grated ginger, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring this mixture to a delightful boil. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to low, cover your skillet, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is perfectly cooked. Don’t forget to return the chicken to the skillet and heat it through before serving. Garnish your dish with the sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a lovely finish!
How to Serve Pineapple Chicken And Rice
Serving Pineapple Chicken and Rice is truly a joy. Once you’ve plated the meal, you will be greeted by a colorful and aromatic dish that is sure to be a hit. It’s great on its own, but you can also pair it with a crisp green salad or sautéed greens for a fresh contrast.
For added flair, consider serving this dish family-style right from the skillet. This encourages communal dining, allowing everyone to help themselves while enjoying the delightful aromas wafting from the pan. It creates a relaxed and inviting atmosphere at the table, making it a perfect centerpiece for gatherings.
Don’t be shy about leftovers! Pineapple Chicken and Rice reheats beautifully, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep. Simply store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go for the next day.
Additional Tips:
- Feel free to customize your vegetables. You can add carrots, peas, or even snap peas depending on your preference!
- For a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of chili sauce when stir-frying the vegetables.
- If you want a richer flavor, brown the chicken in butter instead of oil, or add a dash of coconut milk along with the chicken broth for a creamy twist.
Nutrition Facts:
Estimated per serving:
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 10 g
FAQ Section
Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid.
What can I substitute for chicken?
You may use shrimp or tofu for a different protein option, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
How do I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Pineapple Chicken And Rice
Enjoy this vibrant, flavorful dish the next time you crave something hearty and comforting!
PrintPineapple 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
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
First, you will want to grab a large skillet. Heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cubed chicken. Cook this until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked; this should take about 6-8 minutes. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Next, in the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. This is where the magic happens: let these cook until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This should take about 5 minutes. Now, add the cubes of pineapple and let that cook for an additional 2 minutes. The sweetness of the pineapple mingling with the vegetables is simply divine!
Now, it’s time to add the jasmine rice and the chicken broth. Stir in the soy sauce, grated ginger, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring this mixture to a delightful boil. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to low, cover your skillet, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is perfectly cooked. Don’t forget to return the chicken to the skillet and heat it through before serving. Garnish your dish with the sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a lovely finish!
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