Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Introduction

This vibrant Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish combines tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and aromatic jasmine rice for a deliciously tropical meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, cubed
1 cup pineapple, cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Pineapple: Stir in the cubed pineapple and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Combine Rice and Broth: Add the jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, grated ginger, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer: Lower the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fully cooked.
6. Finish the Dish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together. Heat through for 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat.
• Different Rice: Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
2. What type of pineapple should I use? Fresh or canned pineapple works well. If using canned, drain the juice.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat before serving.
4. What other vegetables can I add? Peas, carrots, or snap peas are great additions.
5. Is this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
6. Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice? Yes, but adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.
7. What can I serve with this dish? A simple salad or steamed vegetables would pair nicely.
8. How can I make it more flavorful? Consider adding a splash of pineapple juice or teriyaki sauce.
9. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, but the texture of the rice may change slightly upon thawing.
10. What can I use instead of sesame seeds? Chopped nuts or sunflower seeds can be used as a substitute.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors in a simple, wholesome meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the tropical vibes!

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