Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Are you in search of a delicious, family-friendly recipe that packs a punch of flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen? Look no further! Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice is your answer—a delightful blend of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and fluffy rice, all cooked to perfection in just one pot! This dish not only captivates your taste buds but also makes meal prep a breeze, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones. Did you know that pineapple is a natural tenderizer? The enzymes in this tropical fruit not only enhance the dish’s flavor but also make the chicken extra tender. So, gather around the table and let this mouthwatering dish bring everyone together for a delightful meal. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also want to check out our Sweet Teriyaki Chicken for another easy, weeknight favorite!

What is Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

So, you might be wondering, what’s the deal with Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice? It’s a joyful medley of tender chicken pieces simmered with sweet, tangy pineapple chunks atop fluffy rice. But why such a fun name? I mean, who wouldn’t want a dish that sounds so cheerful? It’s like the culinary equivalent of a beach vacation! The classic saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” rings true here because anyone who tries this dish will certainly be smitten! Its vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a hit at any table. So, why not jump in and give this delightful recipe a try? You’re just a few steps away from a delicious dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice

There are plenty of reasons to love Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice. Firstly, the star of the show is the harmonious blend of savory chicken and sweet pineapple, creating a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. Secondly, making this delectable dish at home is a huge cost-saving benefit compared to dining out, plus you can adjust the flavors to your liking! Finally, the special toppings, like fresh chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds, give it an additional wow factor that’ll impress your guests. Compared to something like a traditional fried rice, this dish is a breeze and brings unique tropical vibes to your dining experience. Are you ready to whip up this masterpiece in your kitchen?

How to Make Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Quick Overview

Making Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice is as easy as pie! With a total preparation time of only about 30 minutes, you can have a wholesome, satisfying meal on the table with minimal fuss. The wonderful combination of tender chicken simmered in a sweet pineapple sauce served over perfectly cooked rice makes this dish a memorable family favorite. Let’s dive right into the delicious details!

Key Ingredients for Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

• 2 cups diced chicken breast
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup jasmine rice (or rice of choice)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions (chopped for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice: Start by rinsing 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 18 minutes or until the liquid absorbs and the rice becomes fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit with the lid on.
2. Cook the Chicken: While the rice cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, and ginger paste. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Add the Aromatics: Once the chicken is cooked, add minced garlic and the soy sauce to the pan. Stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Incorporate Pineapple: Next, add the pineapple chunks into the skillet. Stir everything to combine and let it simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Combine & Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve it topped with the pineapple chicken mixture. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped green onions!

What to Serve Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice With

To round off your meal, consider serving Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice with a light Asian-style cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, steamed broccoli or snap peas offer a crunchy texture that balances nicely with the sweet dish. For drinks, a sparkling water with a twist of lime or iced green tea will keep it on the refreshing side!

Top Tips for Perfecting Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice

• Substitutions: Feel free to switch up the protein! You can use shrimp, tofu, or even pork. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
• Flavor Enhancements: For added depth, sprinkle some toasted sesame oil after cooking or incorporate red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Avoid Common Mistakes: Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should remain juicy. Keep an eye on your rice too, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the pot.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (though they might disappear quickly!), store the Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. For optimal taste, reheat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. You can also freeze the dish for up to a month; just be sure to let it thaw thoroughly before reheating!

So, what are you waiting for? Try this Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe today and experience a tropical escape in your own kitchen! Happy cooking!

Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice

A delightful blend of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and fluffy rice, all cooked to perfection in just one pot.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 18 minutes mins

Total Time 48 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Asian, Tropical

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups diced chicken breast
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup jasmine rice (or rice of choice)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions (chopped for garnish)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Start by rinsing 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 18 minutes or until the liquid absorbs and the rice becomes fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit with the lid on.

Cooking the Chicken

1. While the rice cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, and ginger paste. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.

Adding the Aromatics

1. Once the chicken is cooked, add minced garlic and the soy sauce to the pan. Stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Incorporating Pineapple

1. Next, add the pineapple chunks into the skillet. Stir everything to combine and let it simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serving

1. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve it topped with the pineapple chicken mixture.
2. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped green onions!

Notes

For variations, consider switching up the protein with shrimp, tofu, or pork. Add toasted sesame oil after cooking for depth, or sprinkle red pepper flakes for heat. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.