Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a sweet, savory, and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and juicy pineapple in a one-pan meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. This tropical-inspired recipe captures a balance of flavors—sweetness from the pineapple, umami from soy sauce, and a hint of spice from optional chili flakes—all tied together with fragrant rice and juicy chicken. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or something exciting to serve guests, this dish delivers comfort, flavor, and convenience.

The beauty of Pineapple Chicken and Rice lies in its versatility. You can keep it simple with basic pantry staples or elevate it with additional ingredients like bell peppers, cashews, or coconut milk. Plus, it’s an easy way to bring vibrant, tropical flavors to your table without needing to travel far. With step-by-step instructions, tips, and plenty of variations, this guide will help you create a dish that tastes like a mini-vacation in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Sweet and Savory Perfection: The natural sweetness of pineapple pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and seasoned rice.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, adjust the spice level, or swap proteins to suit your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the balance of sweet and savory flavors.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping lunches or dinners.

Once you try this Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe, it’s bound to become a staple in your rotation.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 430
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 10g

Ingredients

To make this flavorful Pineapple Chicken and Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or water, for a lighter option)
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Pineapple Mixture:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (or canned pineapple, drained)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped green onions
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Sesame seeds
• Crushed cashews or peanuts

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings.
• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

• Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
• Stir in the ground ginger and red pepper flakes (if using) for a hint of spice.

3. Toast the Rice:

• Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.
• Add the rinsed rice to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat the rice in the oil and cook for 1-2 minutes. Toasting the rice adds a nutty depth of flavor to the dish.

4. Add the Liquids and Pineapple Mixture:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and rice vinegar.
• Pour the pineapple mixture and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Simmer the Rice:

• Reduce the heat to low and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Arrange the pineapple chunks evenly throughout the pan. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to ensure even cooking.

6. Add Peas and Finish the Dish:

• If using frozen peas, stir them into the skillet during the last 2 minutes of cooking. The residual heat will cook the peas without overcooking them.
• Once the rice is fully cooked, fluff it gently with a fork and taste for seasoning. Add additional soy sauce, salt, or pepper if needed.

7. Garnish and Serve:

• Sprinkle the dish with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, or crushed cashews for added flavor and texture.
• Serve hot, straight from the skillet, and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Here’s why each ingredient is essential for the recipe:

• Chicken Thighs/Breasts: Provide a lean source of protein and soak up the sweet and savory flavors of the dish. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.
• Pineapple: Adds natural sweetness, a tropical flair, and juicy bursts of flavor to the dish. Fresh pineapple is ideal, but canned works too.
• Rice: Long-grain rice, like jasmine, stays fluffy and absorbs the rich flavors of the broth and pineapple mixture.
• Soy Sauce and Honey: Create a savory and sweet balance that complements the pineapple and chicken perfectly.
• Ground Ginger and Garlic: Add warmth and depth of flavor, enhancing the tropical and savory notes of the dish.
• Bell Peppers and Peas: Add color, texture, and nutrients to the dish.

Technique Tips

• Cut Chicken Evenly: Cutting the chicken into even pieces ensures uniform cooking and prevents overcooking.
• Don’t Skip Rinsing the Rice: Rinsing removes surface starch, which prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
• Use Fresh Pineapple if Possible: Fresh pineapple has a more vibrant flavor and texture, but canned pineapple is a convenient alternative.
• Simmer on Low Heat: Keeping the heat low while simmering ensures the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the flavorful liquid.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Stuffed Pineapple Bowls: Hollow out a pineapple and serve the chicken and rice inside the pineapple shell for a fun, tropical presentation.
• Rice Bowl Style: Serve the pineapple chicken mixture over steamed white or brown rice for a deconstructed version.
• Casserole: Turn this dish into a casserole by transferring the mixture to a baking dish, topping with shredded cheese, and baking until bubbly.

Additional Tips for Success

• Double the Sauce: If you like extra saucy dishes, double the pineapple juice mixture to drizzle over the finished dish.
• Control the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or pineapple juice to suit your taste preferences.
• Make It Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Pineapple Chicken: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
• Coconut Pineapple Chicken: Replace half the chicken broth with coconut milk for a creamy twist.
• Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken: Add 2 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce to the pineapple mixture for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Hawaiian Chicken and Rice: Add sliced ham or Canadian bacon for a classic Hawaiian flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken and rice mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use Brown Rice: Swap white rice for brown rice to add more fiber and nutrients. Note that the cooking time may need to be increased.
• Reduce Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth to control the salt content.
• Add More Veggies: Include additional vegetables like zucchini, snap peas, or spinach for more nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or tropical-themed gatherings. Serve it alongside:

• Hawaiian Rolls: Soft, slightly sweet rolls that pair perfectly with the flavors of the dish.
• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Grilled Veggies: Skewered and grilled vegetables add a smoky element to the meal.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet with Lid: Essential for evenly cooking the rice and retaining steam.
• Sharp Knife: For cutting chicken and pineapple into even pieces.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes! Canned pineapple works well in this recipe. Be sure to use pineapple chunks packed in juice, not syrup, for the best flavor.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and double-check that your chicken broth is gluten-free.

3. How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?
Ensure your skillet is nonstick or well-seasoned, and stir the rice occasionally during the first few minutes of cooking.

4. Can I use precooked rice?
Yes, you can use precooked rice. Reduce the liquid to 1 cup, and stir in the rice during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to 2 days ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.

6. How can I make it spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

7. Can I use quinoa instead of rice?
Yes! Quinoa is a great substitute. Adjust the liquid and cooking time as needed.

8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delicious, tropical-inspired dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. With its combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, sweet pineapple, and bold flavors, this one-pan recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Try it today and bring a taste of the tropics to your table!

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