Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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One-pot convenience: Minimal cleanup since everything cooks together.
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Sweet and savory harmony: Juicy pineapple adds a natural sweetness that complements the savory chicken.
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Easy to customize: Add veggies or spice it up to your taste.
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Quick and hearty: Ready in under an hour for a perfect weeknight dinner.
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Kid-friendly: Mild flavors that most kids enjoy.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
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Long grain white rice
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Fresh or canned pineapple chunks (with juice)
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Onion
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Garlic
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Bell pepper (optional)
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Soy sauce
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Chicken broth or stock
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Olive oil or vegetable oil
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Salt and pepper
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Green onions or cilantro for garnish
Directions
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Prepare the chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
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Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet or pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, bell pepper (if using), and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
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Brown the chicken: Add chicken pieces to the pot and brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
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Add rice and liquids: Stir in the rice, pineapple chunks with their juice, soy sauce, and chicken broth. Mix well to combine.
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Cook the dish: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
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Rest and garnish: Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro before serving.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Add vegetables: Include peas, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
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Spicy version: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
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Use brown rice: Substitute white rice with brown rice, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
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Pineapple substitute: Use mango or peaches if you want a different fruity twist.
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Gluten-free option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work fine but may cook faster and can be less juicy than thighs.
Is fresh pineapple better than canned?
Fresh pineapple adds a brighter flavor, but canned pineapple with juice works well and is more convenient.
Can I make this recipe in a rice cooker?
Yes, but you may need to brown the chicken separately before adding to the rice cooker.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking?
Use a non-stick pot and stir gently before cooking. Also, ensure the correct liquid-to-rice ratio.
Can I use jasmine or basmati rice?
Yes, jasmine or basmati rice can be used but may require slight adjustments in cooking time and liquid.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be, if you use gluten-free soy sauce alternatives like tamari or coconut aminos.
Can I add other fruits?
Yes, fruits like mango or peaches can add a delicious twist.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just use a larger pot and adjust cooking time accordingly.
What sides go well with this dish?
Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare and refrigerate, but it’s best served fresh for optimal texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, all cooked conveniently in one pot. It’s an easy, tasty meal that’s perfect for busy nights and sure to please the whole family. With options for customization and quick preparation, this recipe is a versatile addition to your dinner rotation.
Pineapple Chicken and Rice
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a vibrant, one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, sweet pineapple chunks, and fluffy rice cooked together with savory seasonings. This easy, family-friendly dish offers the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it an ideal weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
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1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces
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1 ½ cups long grain white rice
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1 cup pineapple chunks with juice (fresh or canned)
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
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3 tablespoons soy sauce
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2 cups chicken broth or stock
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2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, bell pepper (if using), and garlic; sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
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Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
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Add Rice and Liquids: Stir in rice, pineapple chunks with juice, soy sauce, and chicken broth. Mix thoroughly.
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Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
Rest and Garnish: Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork and sprinkle with chopped green onions or cilantro before serving.
Notes
Adjust soy sauce for saltiness based on preference.For more veggies, add peas, carrots, or snap peas during the sauté step.For a spicy twist, include chili flakes or diced jalapeños.
