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Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

5.3 from 17 reviews

This vibrant Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe combines tender, succulent chicken with sweet pineapple and crisp bell peppers simmered in a flavorful soy sauce and honey glaze. Perfectly served over fluffy white rice, this dish offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors and a touch of tanginess from rice vinegar. Easy to prepare and packed with colorful veggies, it’s a fantastic weeknight dinner that brings a tropical twist to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Produce

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
  • 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Grains

  • 2 cups cooked white rice

Sauces and Condiments

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Oils and Seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces evenly with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until fully dissolved. Optionally, you can add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  4. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and the vegetables are fragrant.
  5. Add Pineapple: Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pineapple to caramelize slightly and enhance its sweetness.
  6. Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, pour the prepared sauce over the mixture, and stir to coat everything evenly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  7. Serve: Spoon the pineapple chicken mixture over the cooked white rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and optional sesame seeds. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a healthier option, substitute white rice with brown rice or cauliflower rice.
  • You can use canned pineapple chunks if fresh is unavailable; just ensure to drain well.
  • Add red pepper flakes or chili sauce to the sauce mixture for extra heat.
  • Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: pineapple chicken, chicken and rice, sweet and savory chicken, pineapple recipes, easy weeknight dinner, Asian chicken stir-fry