Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy pineapple, and perfectly cooked rice makes for a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. This dish is not only flavorful but also easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you make Pineapple Chicken and Rice? First, it is quick to cook, taking around 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, it is a one-pan meal, which means fewer dishes to clean afterward! This recipe is also versatile, fitting well into various dietary preferences. You can easily adjust the spice level and even swap out the chicken for a different protein if you prefer. Lastly, it is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or inviting friends over.
How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Making Pineapple Chicken and Rice is simple. You will need some basic ingredients and follow a few straightforward steps to create this delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups cooked rice
Directions:
-
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
-
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
-
Stir in the pineapple chunks, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy). Let it all simmer for about 2 minutes.
-
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
-
Serve the chicken and sauce over the cooked rice and enjoy!
How to Serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice
To serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice, scoop a generous portion of rice onto plates and top it with the pineapple chicken mixture. You can garnish it with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch. This dish goes well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
How to Store Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Storing Pineapple Chicken and Rice is easy. Allow the leftovers to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Tips to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and honey for an hour before cooking.
- You can use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a fresher taste.
- Adjust the honey and soy sauce to your taste preference for sweetness or saltiness.
Variation
You can easily modify Pineapple Chicken and Rice by switching the protein. Feel free to use shrimp or tofu for a different twist. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas, to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice. Just make sure to cook it according to package instructions before serving.
2. Is this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free due to the soy sauce. You can use gluten-free soy sauce to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
3. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a quick meal later. Just reheat it when you are ready to serve.
Now, you’re ready to enjoy a flavorful meal with Pineapple Chicken and Rice! Enjoy your cooking!
Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking the chicken
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped Can be yellow or white onion
- 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1/4 cup soy sauce Use gluten-free if necessary
- 1/4 cup honey Adjust to taste
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) For added spice
- 2 cups cooked rice Can use white or brown rice
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the pineapple chunks, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy). Let it all simmer for about 2 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve the chicken and sauce over the cooked rice and enjoy!
