Biting into a plate of Pineapple Chicken and Rice is like taking a tropical vacation—an explosion of sweet, tangy pineapple mingling with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and the umami punch of savory seasonings. The texture is a delightful dance of juicy morsels and satisfying chewiness that make your taste buds sing.
This dish takes me back to childhood summer barbecues in my aunt’s backyard. I can still picture her flinging together chicken and pineapple with a carefree spirit, while the laughter of cousins echoed through the warm air. Spoiler alert: I may have once confused “pineapple” with “pine” and declared that I’d prefer a side of “pine tree” with my dinner. Good times.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pineapple Chicken and Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience! With its quick and easy preparation, you’ll spend more time enjoying with family than sweating in the kitchen. The unique flavor profile, thanks to the tangy pineapple and savory chicken, provides a harmonious blend that’s sure to impress. Its stunning appearance—golden chicken and vibrant pineapple chunks over glossy rice—will make it the star of any dinner table. Plus, the versatility of this dish allows you to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices, making it a family favorite for any night of the week.
Ingredients for Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Here’s what you need for this delicious dish:
The complete ingredient list, including quantities, can be found directly under the recipe card.
How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by rinsing 1 cup of jasmine or basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the rice is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season 1 pound of diced chicken breast with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add 1 cup of diced bell peppers and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the peppers are tender and the kitchen smells heavenly. This is the moment to appreciate how good life can be when cooking.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Pineapple
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add 1 cup of pineapple chunks (fresh or canned). Pour in 1/3 cup of teriyaki sauce and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to let all those flavors come together in wonderful harmony.
Step 5: Combine with Rice
Finally, add the prepared rice to the skillet, gently folding everything together. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through. The rice should absorb all that sweet-tangy goodness, and your kitchen will smell like paradise!
Step 6: Serve with Style
Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately to enjoy the vibrant colors and delightful aromas. This dish is best shared with family or friends who appreciate the finer things in life, like a perfectly balanced plate of Pineapple Chicken and Rice.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best flavors in your Pineapple Chicken and Rice, cook the chicken first until golden and juicy. Then, add the rice and pineapple together, allowing each ingredient to soak up the deliciousness from the other. Timing is everything for perfect results.
Add Your Personal Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey if you prefer a leaner option in your Pineapple Chicken and Rice. You could also exchange fresh pineapple for canned pineapple chunks for a quicker, fuss-free choice that still packs in flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store your Pineapple Chicken and Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To maintain the rice’s fluffy texture, reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of broth, allowing it to warm through evenly.
Helpful Chef Tips
One time, I made Pineapple Chicken and Rice for a surprise family gathering. The warmth of the dish and laughter made it a night to remember!
Conclusion for Pineapple Chicken and Rice
In conclusion, the Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish presents a delightful medley of flavors that awaken the senses—tender chicken infused with tangy pineapple and savory notes, set against a backdrop of fluffy rice. The secret to success lies in marinating the chicken to deeply blend those vibrant flavors. The balance of sweet and savory will transform your dinner into a culinary adventure. I encourage you to test this recipe in your own kitchen and savor the delightful results; your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Pineapple Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Pineapple Chicken and Rice brings a tropical twist to your dinner table with its sweet, tangy pineapple and tender chicken. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, combining fluffy rice with savory flavors for a satisfying meal. The vibrant presentation of golden chicken and colorful pineapple makes it a delightful centerpiece. Quick to prepare and customizable with your favorite veggies or spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite for any occasion. Experience the joy of a flavorful meal reminiscent of summer barbecues!
Ingredients
- 1 Pfund Hähnchenbrust, gewürfelt
- 1 Tasse Jasmin- oder Basmati-Reis
- 2 Tassen Wasser
- 1 Esslöffel Öl
- 1 Tasse gewürfelte Paprika
- 2 Zehen Knoblauch, gehackt
- Pineapple Chunks, frisch oder aus der Dose (Menge nicht angegeben)
- Teriyaki-Sauce (Menge nicht angegeben)
- Grüne Zwiebeln (Menge nicht angegeben)
Instructions
- Reis unter kaltem Wasser abspülen, bis das Wasser klar ist.
- In einem Topf den abgespülten Reis mit 2 Tassen Wasser und einer Prise Salz kombinieren.
- Bei mittlerer Hitze zum Kochen bringen, dann die Hitze reduzieren, abdecken und 15 Minuten köcheln lassen, bis der Reis fluffig ist und das Wasser absorbiert wurde.
- Vom Herd nehmen und abgedeckt stehen lassen.
- In einer großen Pfanne 1 Esslöffel Öl bei mittlerer bis hoher Hitze erhitzen.
- 1 Pfund gewürfelte Hähnchenbrust mit Salz und Pfeffer würzen.
- Das Hähnchen in die Pfanne geben und 5–7 Minuten kochen, gelegentlich umrühren, bis es goldbraun und vollständig durchgegart ist.
- Das Hähnchen auf einen Teller nehmen und beiseite stellen.
- In derselben Pfanne 1 Tasse gewürfelte Paprika und 2 gehackte Knoblauchzehen hinzufügen.
- 3–4 Minuten sautieren, bis die Paprika zart sind.
Notes
Storage: Store any leftover Pineapple Chicken and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave on medium heat until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking, until heated thoroughly.
Serving: Serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice hot, garnished with chopped green onions for added flavor and freshness. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Chef’s Tip: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the chicken with delicious sweetness and depth, making the dish even more enjoyable.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Stovetop
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 0
FAQs
What should I do if my chicken is dry after cooking?
Dry chicken often results from overcooking. When exposed to high heat for too long, the proteins in the meat contract and release moisture. To prevent this, monitor your cooking time and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Marinating your chicken not only adds flavor but also ensures moisture retention during cooking.
Why is my rice not fluffy?
Unfluffy rice typically indicates that it has been overcooked or not rinsed properly. Rinsing removes excess starch, which can cause clumping and stickiness. Use the correct ratio of water to rice and avoid lifting the lid too often during cooking. Allowing it to rest for a few minutes after cooking also helps achieve that perfect fluffy texture.
How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F. Additionally, the juices should run clear, not pink. Keep an eye on cook times, as chicken pieces of different sizes may require varying lengths of cooking.
Can I substitute white rice with brown rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice in pineapple chicken and rice; however, keep in mind that brown rice has a longer cooking time and requires more liquid. Adjust your water ratio and cooking time accordingly to ensure that the brown rice becomes tender while still allowing the flavors to meld perfectly with the chicken and pineapple.
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