Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Introduction

Bright, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a dish that masterfully balances sweet and savory flavors. This recipe, crafted by Sharlene, features tender chicken breast, juicy pineapple, and aromatic jasmine rice, all enhanced with a touch of ginger, soy sauce, and vibrant vegetables. The result is a tropical-inspired meal that’s both visually appealing and utterly delicious.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner, casual gatherings, or family meals, this dish is versatile and adaptable. The natural sweetness of the pineapple contrasts beautifully with the savory notes of chicken and soy sauce, while the vegetables add crunch, freshness, and nutritional value. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a complete, well-rounded meal that will impress any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced sweet and savory flavors
• Juicy, tender chicken with aromatic jasmine rice
• Quick and easy to prepare in under 40 minutes
• Vibrant, colorful presentation
• Healthy and nutrient-rich, featuring lean protein, vegetables, and fruit
• Versatile for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep

Ingredients Breakdown

Yield: 4 servings

Main 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

Rice & Sauce

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish

• ¼ cup green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Grater for ginger
• Serving spoon or tongs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Chicken

1. Heat Olive Oil
   In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Cook the Chicken
   Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

3. Cook Onion, Garlic, and Bell Pepper
   In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Add Pineapple
   Stir in the cubed pineapple and cook for 2 minutes until slightly caramelized.

Cook the Rice

5. Combine Ingredients
   Add jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, grated ginger, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
6. Simmer
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Combine and Serve

7. Return Chicken to Skillet
   Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and mix gently to distribute the flavors. Heat through for 2–3 minutes.
8. Garnish and Serve
   Serve the dish hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for freshness and a subtle crunch.

Tips & Variations

Flavor Adjustments

• Adjust the sweetness by using more or less pineapple.
• Add a splash of lime juice for a citrusy brightness.
• For a spicier version, include a pinch of red chili flakes or sriracha.

Protein Substitutions

• Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for extra juiciness.
• Shrimp can replace chicken for a seafood variation.

Rice Alternatives

• Brown rice or cauliflower rice can be substituted for a lower-carb or higher-fiber option.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

Pineapple Chicken and Rice offers a harmonious mix of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors. The pineapple provides natural sweetness, which balances the umami of soy sauce and the warmth of ginger. The red bell pepper adds crispness, while jasmine rice absorbs the sauce and flavors beautifully.

Serve alongside lightly steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete, well-rounded meal.

Nutritional Overview

Per Serving (Approximate):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 10 g

This dish is high in protein, provides essential vitamins and minerals from vegetables and pineapple, and offers a satisfying portion of carbohydrates for energy.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Chicken can be cooked ahead and added to rice when ready to serve.
• Prepare vegetables in advance for quicker cooking.
• Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, but drain it to avoid excess liquid making the rice too soggy.

Can this dish be made in one pot?
Yes, by cooking chicken and vegetables first, then adding rice and liquid to simmer.

How do I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or diced chili peppers when sautéing vegetables.

Can I use another type of rice?
Yes, long-grain white rice or brown rice works, though cooking times may vary.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep	10 minutes
Cook	30 minutes
Total	40 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Serve with a side of steamed broccoli, snap peas, or a simple green salad.
• Top with crushed peanuts or cashews for extra texture.

Ingredient Spotlight

Pineapple

Pineapple adds natural sweetness, acidity, and tropical flavor. It caramelizes slightly when sautéed, enhancing the dish’s richness.

Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice has a fragrant, floral aroma and slightly sticky texture that absorbs the sauce, tying the dish together perfectly.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Sear chicken first to lock in juices before combining with rice.
• Cook rice on low heat to prevent sticking or burning.
• Stir gently after adding chicken back to preserve texture.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	25 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Fat	7 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	10 g

Dietary Notes: High in protein, contains natural sugars from pineapple, moderate in healthy fats, gluten-free if soy sauce is gluten-free.

Expanded Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a dish that marries tropical sweetness with savory comfort, creating a meal that’s both beautiful and delicious. From tender chicken and juicy pineapple to fragrant jasmine rice and vibrant vegetables, each bite is an explosion of flavor and texture.

This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, family meals, or casual gatherings, delivering a complete and nutritious meal in under an hour. Its balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors ensures it will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. The dish not only nourishes but also delights the senses, transporting you to a tropical paradise with every bite.

This is a recipe worth keeping on hand, ready to impress both family and friends while satisfying your cravings for a colorful, flavorful, and wholesome meal.

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