Why Make This Recipe

Airfryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is not only simple but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Using an air fryer helps to keep the chicken juicy while giving it a nice crispy texture, and the added pineapple gives a lovely tropical twist. Plus, it’s a complete meal with protein, carbs, and veggies all in one plate!

How to Make Airfryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts
1 cup rice
1 cup pineapple chunks
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Directions:

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, ginger, salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken breasts in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.
Place the marinated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice according to package instructions. Stir in the diced bell pepper and pineapple chunks during the last few minutes of cooking.
Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a couple of minutes before slicing.
Serve the chicken over the pineapple rice and garnish with chopped green onions.

How to Serve Airfryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice

This dish is best served warm. Place a generous helping of the pineapple rice on the plate and top it with sliced chicken. You can sprinkle some chopped green onions for added flavor and a pop of color. It pairs nicely with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

How to Store Airfryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to consume them within 3 days for the best taste. You can also freeze the chicken and rice together for up to a month. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Airfryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Make sure to marinate the chicken for the full 30 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
Adjust the amount of pineapple based on your sweetness preference.
If you want extra crunch, add some chopped nuts or seeds on top before serving.
Feel free to use brown rice for a healthier option, but remember it may take longer to cook.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or broccoli. For a spicier kick, consider adding some chili flakes to the marinade. If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily substitute it with tofu or shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, canned pineapple works well for this recipe. Just drain it before adding it to the rice.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
While it’s not strictly necessary, marinating the chicken makes it more flavorful and tender.

Can I use a different type of rice?
Absolutely! You can use jasmine, basmati, or even cauliflower rice if you want a low-carb option. Adjust the cooking time as needed.