Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice

This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, combining tender chicken, vibrant pineapple, and fluffy rice. It’s a one-pan meal that’s both easy to make and bursting with tropical goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will surely impress!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Tropical Flavors: The sweetness of pineapple complements the savory chicken perfectly.
• One-Pan Meal: Easy cleanup with all ingredients cooked in one pan.
• Flavorful & Filling: A hearty meal that combines protein, carbs, and veggies for a satisfying dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 cup long-grain rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (drained, juice reserved)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need:

• Large skillet or sauté pan with a lid
• Spoon for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice

1. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetables.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and reserved pineapple juice. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Add the Sauces and Pineapple

1. Stir in the soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
2. Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet, stirring to incorporate them into the rice mixture.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

1. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

1. Once the rice is cooked, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or honey if needed.
3. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving.

Tips for Success:

• Use Fresh Pineapple: If you prefer, you can use fresh pineapple for a more vibrant flavor. Just chop it into chunks and add it to the pan along with the canned pineapple.
• Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey or pineapple juice to suit your sweetness preference.
• Add More Vegetables: You can add additional vegetables like peas, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and texture.

What to Serve With This Dish:

• Side Salad: A light cucumber and avocado salad with a citrus dressing would complement this dish nicely.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans make a great side for extra nutrition.
• Garlic Bread or Naan: If you’re craving something extra to dip into the sauce, serve with garlic bread or naan.

Storing and Reheating:

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent the rice from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes! Just be aware that brown rice will take longer to cook. You may need to add more liquid and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, chicken thighs work great and add more flavor to the dish.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare this dish up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion:

This Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish is the perfect balance of flavors. The tropical sweetness of the pineapple combined with the savory chicken and rice creates a satisfying and delicious meal that’s sure to be a family favorite.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Tropical/Asian Fusion

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