Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with this vibrant Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish. Juicy chicken, fragrant jasmine rice, and sweet pineapple come together in a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both comforting and refreshing. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this one-pan wonder is easy to prepare and will impress everyone at the table!

Ingredients:

  • For the Chicken Marinade:
    • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
    • 1/4 cup soy sauce
    • 2 tablespoons honey
    • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • For the Rice:
    • 1 cup jasmine rice
    • 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
    • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
    • 1 bell pepper, diced (red or yellow)
    • 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)

Instructions:

  1. Marinate the Chicken:
    • In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge).
  2. Cook the Chicken:
    • In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and add to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Rice:
    • In the same pan, add the diced bell pepper and cook for about 3 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in the jasmine rice and cook for an additional 2 minutes to toast the rice lightly.
  4. Combine Ingredients:
    • Pour in the chicken broth and reserved marinade. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Add the pineapple chunks and green onions, stirring to combine. Place the cooked chicken on top of the rice mixture.
  5. Simmer:
    • Cover the pan and simmer on low for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork.
  6. Serve:
    • Garnish with additional green onions and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm, and enjoy your tropical Pineapple Chicken and Rice!

This dish is not only flavorful but also a feast for the eyes, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire!

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