Pineapple Chicken and Rice

If you’re looking to add a tropical flair to your dinner, this Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe will transport your taste buds to a warm island getaway! The juicy, tender chicken combined with sweet pineapple and savory rice creates a perfect balance of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. This dish is great for busy weeknights as it’s quick to prepare and requires minimal ingredients. Not only is it a delicious meal, but it also packs nutritional benefits from lean protein and vitamins in the pineapple. Whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining guests, this vibrant meal is sure to be a hit. The best part? It’s a one-pan wonder that saves you time on cleanup!

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Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 🐔
• 2 cups of pineapple chunks 🍍 (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup of uncooked white rice 🍚
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth 🍲
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 🍶
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 🫒
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 🧄
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder 🌿
• ½ teaspoon black pepper 🌶️
• ½ teaspoon salt 🧂
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar 🍬
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions 🧅 (optional for garnish)

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Directions:

1. Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Add Pineapple and Sauce: Stir in the pineapple chunks, soy sauce, and brown sugar, letting everything simmer for 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
4. Cook the Rice: Add the uncooked rice and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir gently, ensuring the rice is submerged in the broth.
5. Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.
6. Serve: Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and serve the chicken over the rice, garnishing with chopped green onions if desired.

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How to Prepare:

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with a blend of garlic and ginger powder, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, sear the chicken until golden brown. Next, incorporate the sweetness by adding pineapple chunks and a soy sauce-brown sugar mixture, which will caramelize into a delicious sauce. Then, add the rice and broth to the skillet, allowing everything to cook together, absorbing all the tropical flavors. Cover and let it simmer on low heat until the rice is tender. Finally, fluff the rice, plate the dish, and garnish with green onions for a pop of color and extra flavor.

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Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

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Servings:

Serves 4 people

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FAQs:

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice takes longer to cook and may require an additional ½ cup of broth.

2. Is fresh pineapple better than canned? Fresh pineapple gives a brighter flavor, but canned works just as well if you’re in a pinch! Make sure to drain the canned pineapple well.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare Pineapple Chicken and Rice ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

4. Can I substitute chicken with another protein? Absolutely! Shrimp or pork are great alternatives that pair well with the pineapple and rice.

5. What vegetables can I add to this dish? You can easily add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to boost the nutrition and add extra flavor!

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Conclusion:

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and tropical flavors, creating a dish that is as easy to make as it is delicious. With juicy chicken and tender rice infused with pineapple sweetness, this one-pan meal offers convenience and vibrant flavors that will satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for the family or preparing for a gathering, this recipe is a tropical escape from ordinary weeknight dinners. Plus, the flexibility of substituting ingredients or adding vegetables makes it customizable for any palate. Enjoy the bright, refreshing flavors of Pineapple Chicken and Rice, and make it a staple in your recipe collection!

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