Pineapple Chicken and Rice

The Joy of Pineapple Chicken and Rice

There’s something undeniably delightful about the combination of savory chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and the sweet tang of pineapple in a comforting bowl of rice. This Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish has been a favorite in my kitchen for years, typically making an appearance during busy weeknights or when company is over. It’s quick to assemble and pleases just about everyone at the table, making it a go-to for family meals. The harmony of flavors not only excites your taste buds but brings a tropical twist to your dining experience.

Why you’ll love this dish

Why settle for the ordinary when you can whip up something extraordinary? Pineapple Chicken and Rice stands out as a fast, budget-friendly option that pleases young and old alike. It’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you don’t want to compromise on flavor for speed. With just one skillet needed, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to spend more time enjoying dinner with your family.

"Made this last night and my kids couldn’t get enough! The sweetness of the pineapple combined with the savory chicken is such a win." – A satisfied home cook.

How this recipe comes together

This dish is incredibly straightforward, making it a fantastic choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. You will sauté your vegetables and chicken, then stir in the pineapple and rice, finishing it off with a splash of chicken broth and soy sauce. It’s a simple sequence that packs a flavor punch!

What you’ll need

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Soy sauce to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste

You can certainly substitute the protein here, too! Feel free to use shrimp or tofu if you’re looking for a different twist.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and the diced chicken. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, roughly 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the pineapple chunks and the cooked rice to the skillet. Mix well.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and drizzle with soy sauce; season with salt and pepper.
6. Let everything simmer for a few minutes until heated through. Serve warm.

This straightforward method yields a deliciously satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Best ways to enjoy it

Serving Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a chance to get creative! Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables, enhancing that tropical vibe. A small bowl of soy sauce on the side lets diners customize their flavor experience.

Storage and reheating tips

Leftovers? No problem! To keep your Pineapple Chicken and Rice fresh, transfer any uneaten portions to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, ensure that you warm it until it’s steaming hot throughout. For longer storage, you can freeze this dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing!

Helpful cooking tips

To enhance your dish further, here are a few cooking tips:

• Use day-old rice for the best texture; it’s less sticky and holds up better in the skillet.
• If you like a spicier kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce right before serving.
• Experiment with different types of pineapple—grilled pineapple can add a lovely smoky flavor.

Creative twists

Looking to change things up? Here are some ideas:

• Try adding diced zucchini or snap peas for an extra veggie boost.
• Incorporate toasted cashews or almonds for some crunch.
• Swap out soy sauce for teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, more savory profile.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to make Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and hassle-free meal option.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nice nuttiness and extra fiber, though cooking times may vary.

Is it safe to eat leftovers after a few days?

Yes, if properly refrigerated, leftovers can be safely consumed within 3 days. Always make sure to check for any off smells before eating.

Now that you’re fully equipped with the details, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get cooking. Enjoy this delightful blend of flavors that takes you straight to the tropics, one bite at a time!

Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Please rate us

A delightful combination of savory chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet pineapple, served over rice for a quick and satisfying meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Tropical

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced You can substitute with shrimp or tofu.
• 1 tbsp olive oil For sautéing.
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown) Day-old rice works best.
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• to taste soy sauce For seasoning.
• to taste salt and pepper For seasoning.

Method

 

Cooking

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and the diced chicken. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, roughly 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the pineapple chunks and the cooked rice to the skillet. Mix well.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and drizzle with soy sauce; season with salt and pepper.
6. Let everything simmer for a few minutes until heated through. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5g

Notes

Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions. It pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!