Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of chicken with the sweet tang of pineapple. This easy-to-make meal is cooked in one pan, making it a quick and convenient option for a delicious dinner. With the perfect balance of sweet and salty, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

1 cup diced pineapple
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup white rice
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions, chopped for garnish

Directions

Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, cook the diced chicken over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add vegetables: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Simmer the sauce: Stir in the soy sauce, chicken broth, and diced pineapple. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Add rice: Stir in the white rice and mix well. Cover the skillet and let it cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
Season and garnish: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the dish hot, garnished with freshly chopped green onions.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: You can add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
Switch up the protein: Try using shrimp, tofu, or pork in place of chicken for a different protein option.
Use brown rice: Substitute white rice with brown rice for a healthier, whole-grain option. Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to add more liquid and extend the cooking time.
Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the rice from drying out.

10 FAQs

Can I use frozen pineapple?
Yes, frozen pineapple works well. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the dish.
Can I substitute the chicken with another meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp, beef, or pork. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Can I use instant rice instead of regular white rice?
Yes, but instant rice cooks much faster, so reduce the cooking time to 5-7 minutes after adding the rice.
Can I add more sauce?
Yes, you can increase the amount of soy sauce and chicken broth for a more flavorful dish. Be mindful of the saltiness from the soy sauce, though.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
You can add a bit of ginger or a splash of sesame oil to enhance the flavor profile. A dash of honey can also add extra sweetness.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make this dish a day ahead and store it in the fridge. It will last for 2-3 days.
Can I use brown sugar instead of pineapple?
While pineapple adds a unique flavor, you can use brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter dish. You may need to add some extra liquid, like pineapple juice or water.
Is this dish gluten-free?
You can make this dish gluten-free by using tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or zucchini to make it more hearty and nutritious.
How can I make this dish spicy?
You can add red pepper flakes, sriracha sauce, or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a flavorful, balanced meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and savory rice in one easy-to-make skillet. With endless variations, you can adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile and delicious option for any family dinner.