Description
Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a simple and flavorful recipe combining tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and fluffy rice for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. This tropical-inspired dish is easy to prepare and perfect for family meals, offering a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Serve it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal, or customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or protein alternatives.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Rice
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
Garnish and Serving Suggestions
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
- Steamed vegetables (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook the Rice: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell peppers, sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil. Pour in chicken broth, add salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Cook the Chicken: While rice cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is fully cooked and browned on the outside.
- Add Pineapple: Add pineapple chunks to the skillet with the chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through and allow flavors to meld.
- Combine and Serve: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Serve the pineapple chicken mixture over the rice. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Optionally serve with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.
- Enjoy: Delight in this flavorful Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish that combines sweet and savory for a quick and tasty meal perfect for family dinners.
Notes
- You can replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Adding vegetables like snap peas or additional bell peppers can increase nutritional value and add color.
- Use fresh pineapple for a more natural sweetness and texture.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure the soy sauce used is gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
