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Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Pineapple Chicken and Rice
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Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, juicy pineapple chunks, and fluffy rice in a one-pot meal. This tropical-inspired recipe balances sweet and savory flavors and is perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, offering minimal cleanup and maximum taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced

Produce

  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained if canned)
  • 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh or powdered ginger
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Grains

  • 2 cups cooked long grain white rice (preferably day-old)

Pantry

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Chop the bell peppers and green onions. If using fresh pineapple, core and cut into chunks; if canned, drain excess liquid.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables and Aromatics: In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Add minced garlic, ginger, and chopped bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until peppers soften and garlic is fragrant.
  4. Add Pineapple and Sauce: Add pineapple chunks, soy sauce, and honey or brown sugar. Stir to coat evenly and cook for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
  5. Combine Chicken and Rice: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to combine. Add cooked rice and mix thoroughly so the rice absorbs the sauce and blends evenly with the chicken and pineapple.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sliced green onions over the dish for freshness and color. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

  • Use day-old rice to prevent mushiness and maintain texture.
  • Do not overcook chicken; cook until just done to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Adjust honey and soy sauce quantities to balance the sweet and savory flavors to your liking.
  • Marinate chicken briefly in soy sauce and ginger to enhance flavor quickly.
  • Keep stirring during cooking to distribute heat evenly and prevent sticking or burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: pineapple chicken, chicken and rice, one pot meal, tropical chicken recipe, quick dinner, family friendly, gluten free option

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/pineapple-chicken-and-rice/