Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? Look no further! This Chicken Pineapple Rice recipe is a vibrant fusion of sweet and savory, combining juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and fragrant rice into a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight, a casual weekend gathering, or even a light lunch. This easy recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Get ready to experience a taste of the tropics!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base: Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Rice and Liquids: Add rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the vegetables. Pour in chicken broth and reserved pineapple juice. Stir in soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until rice is cooked through and liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Combine and Garnish: Stir in cooked chicken and pineapple chunks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Pineapple Rice:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and ginger for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes or use a smaller amount.
- Don't overcook the rice: Overcooked rice will be mushy. Follow the cooking time carefully and check for doneness before serving.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or peas for a more nutritious meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Pineapple Rice: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño pepper for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Chicken Pineapple Rice: Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Coconut Chicken Pineapple Rice: Add 1/2 cup of coconut milk to the skillet along with the chicken broth for a richer, creamier flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Fat: 10-15g
This delicious Chicken Pineapple Rice is a fantastic example of a quick dinner idea that doesn’t compromise on taste or health. Enjoy this easy recipe and let us know what you think in the comments below! We'd love to hear from you and see your culinary creations!