Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pineapple Chicken and Rice brings together the sweet and tangy pineapple with the savory richness of chicken, creating a mouthwatering contrast of flavors. This meal is not only delicious but also packs in nutrients with the protein from chicken, vitamins from pineapple, and the energy-boosting carbs from rice. It’s a well-rounded, satisfying meal that will please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for a busy weeknight or a special occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• ½ cup flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 tablespoon oil for frying

• ½ cup grated ginger

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup pineapple juice

• 3 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks

• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

• 2 cups rice (white or brown)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Coat the chicken pieces in the flour mixture. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

2. Make the pineapple ginger sauce: In the same skillet, sauté ginger and garlic until fragrant. Add pineapple juice, soy sauce, and red wine vinegar, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Stir in pineapple chunks and honey/brown sugar, and cook until the sauce thickens. Add cornstarch-water mixture and simmer until the sauce is glossy.

3. Cook the rice: Rinse rice until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions. Fluff the rice with a fork when done.

4. Combine: Add the cooked chicken back to the pan with the pineapple sauce and toss until the chicken is coated. Serve the chicken and sauce over the rice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower for a plant-based twist.

• Slow Cooker: Combine all the ingredients (except for the rice) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add fresh pineapple near the end.

• Add extra vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, peas, or broccoli for more color and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to rehydrate the rice.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen pineapple works just as well as fresh pineapple in this dish. Make sure to thaw and drain the excess moisture before using it.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great alternative for this recipe.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Cook the rice just before serving for the best texture.

4. How can I make the sauce less sweet?

Reduce the amount of honey or brown sugar to adjust the sweetness to your preference. You can also add a bit more vinegar to balance it out.

5. Can I use brown rice?

Yes, brown rice is a great alternative to white rice. It will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the dish.

6. Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?

Yes, low-sodium soy sauce is a good substitute if you're watching your salt intake.

7. Is this dish gluten-free?

This recipe contains flour for dredging the chicken, which contains gluten. You can use a gluten-free flour substitute to make it gluten-free.

8. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce for up to 3 months. However, rice may not retain its best texture when frozen and reheated.

9. Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, canned pineapple works well for this recipe. Just be sure to drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.

10. Can I add spice to the dish?

If you like some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of chili sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delicious and versatile dish that combines sweet and savory flavors in a way that will leave your taste buds craving more. With its simple ingredients, quick prep time, and potential for variations, it’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Whether you prefer chicken breasts or thighs, or want to try a vegetarian version, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table!