Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with sweet pineapple and colorful vegetables, all cooked together with rice. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large skillet, cook diced chicken over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, and ginger until soft.
3. Stir in rice, chicken broth, pineapple chunks, soy sauce, and the cooked chicken. Bring to a boil.
4. Cover and reduce heat, simmering for about 20 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff with a fork, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy version of this dish.
• Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or pork for a different protein option.
• Brown Rice: Use brown rice instead of white for a healthier version; just adjust cooking time as needed.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
   Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just make sure to cook it thoroughly.
2. What kind of rice should I use?
   Long-grain white rice works best, but you can also use jasmine or basmati rice.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
5. Can I use canned pineapple?
   Yes, canned pineapple works great. Just drain it before use.
6. What can I serve with this dish?
   This dish can be served with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
7. How can I make it vegetarian?
   Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
8. Can I use other fruits?
   Yes, mango or bell pepper can be substituted for a different flavor profile.
9. What if I don’t have ginger?
   You can omit ginger or use ground ginger as a substitute.
10. How do I know when the rice is done?
    The rice should be tender and the liquid should be absorbed.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a deliciously easy dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors in a delightful way. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s a versatile recipe that you can customize to your taste. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and comforting texture of this meal any night of the week!

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