Description
A vibrant and flavorful Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish that combines tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and aromatic spices cooked together in a skillet for a quick and satisfying meal ready in 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, diced
Vegetables and Fruits
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced fresh pineapple (or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Grains & Liquids
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
Oils & Condiments
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Chopped cashews or sesame seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Begin by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat, preparing the pan for cooking the chicken and aromatics.
- Cook the chicken: Add the diced chicken to the skillet, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened, approximately 3 minutes. Then stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add main ingredients: Add the rice, diced red bell pepper, chicken broth, soy sauce, and pineapple chunks to the skillet. Gently stir to combine everything evenly.
- Simmer with chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
- Finish and serve: Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sprinkle with chopped cashews or sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful pineapple chicken and rice!
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts for a juicier result.
- Use fresh pineapple for a brighter flavor or canned pineapple if unavailable, just be sure to drain it well.
- Adjust the soy sauce and seasoning according to your taste and dietary preferences.
- To make this dish gluten free, use a gluten-free soy sauce.
- For added heat, consider adding a pinch of red chili flakes during the sauté step.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Keywords: pineapple chicken, chicken and rice, quick dinner, tropical chicken recipe, skillet chicken recipe, easy weeknight meal
