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
-
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces
-
1 ½ cups long grain white rice
-
1 cup pineapple chunks with juice (fresh or canned)
-
1 medium onion, diced
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
-
3 tablespoons soy sauce
-
2 cups chicken broth or stock
-
2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
-
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
-
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.
-
Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
-
Add Rice and Liquids: Stir in rice, pineapple chunks with juice, soy sauce, and chicken broth. Mix thoroughly.
-
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.