Tropical Pineapple Chicken and Rice – A Flavorful Escape

Catch a whiff of sizzling chicken, tropical pineapple, and fragrant rice dancing together in perfect harmony, and you’ll be transported to a sunny beach in Hawaii. Pineapple Chicken and Rice is not just a dish; it’s a mini-vacation on your dinner plate, bursting with sweet, savory goodness that tickles your taste buds and leaves you craving more. Tropical Key Lime Cake.

I remember the first time I tried this delightful combo—it was at a potluck where everyone brought their A-game. As I took my first bite, my taste buds threw a party! It instantly became my go-to recipe for impressing friends and family. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish will always steal the show and have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients for Pineapple Chicken and Rice

For more inspiration, check out this hassle-free chicken recipes recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts should do the trick for a hearty meal. You can adjust depending on your crowd size.
• Canned Pineapple Chunks: Opt for those packed in juice—not syrup! They add sweetness without overpowering the dish.
• Rice: Use long-grain white rice or jasmine for its fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with the chicken and pineapple.
• Fresh Ginger: A small piece goes a long way in adding warmth and depth to your dish.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings out the best flavors; trust me, no one ever complained about too much garlic.

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while still giving that umami kick we all love.
• Fruit Juice (Pineapple or Orange): Use this instead of any alcohol or vinegar; it adds another layer of fruity goodness!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly while maximizing that glorious flavor absorption. Mince your garlic and ginger next—don’t be shy; those little nuggets of flavor are essential!

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle some oil (olive or vegetable works great). Add the diced chicken along with minced garlic and ginger. Cook until the chicken is golden brown on all sides—about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Pineapple

Once your chicken is beautifully seared, toss in those pineapple chunks along with their juice (yes, please!). This will create an aromatic sauce that will have your neighbors wondering what’s cooking!

Step 4: Stir in Rice

Next up, add rice directly into the skillet. Pour in some water (or broth if you’re feeling fancy) according to package instructions for cooking rice. Bring everything to a gentle boil before lowering the heat to simmer—cover it up like it’s hibernating!

Step 5: Let It Simmer

Let your dish simmer away for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and has absorbed all those heavenly flavors. If you start doubting yourself during this step—don’t! Just imagine how amazing it’ll taste!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Fluff up that rice with a fork before serving—it’s like giving it a spa day! Transfer to plates and drizzle some soy sauce over each serving for that extra umami punch.

Pineapple Chicken and Rice isn’t just food; it’s an experience! Gather your loved ones around for a delicious feast infused with laughter, conversation, and memories waiting to happen. Crack Chicken Stuffed Potatoes Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear your chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook the rice while preparing the pineapple sauce. This way, everything comes together seamlessly, delivering a dish that’s both vibrant and delicious.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or use brown rice instead of white for a nuttier flavor. Add some chopped bell peppers or cashews for extra crunch and color, making your dish even more delightful!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through or sauté in a pan with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Cooking this dish always reminds me of summer barbecues with friends, where laughter filled the air as we devoured every last bite. It’s heartwarming to see everyone gather around the table, plates piled high with Pineapple Chicken and Rice!

FAQs:

What is the best way to serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

Serving Pineapple Chicken and Rice is simple yet delightful. For a colorful presentation, place the cooked chicken and rice mixture in a large serving bowl. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for added flavor. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal. This dish pairs well with sweet and tangy dipping sauces, enhancing its tropical flavor. Enjoy it warm for the best experience, as the aroma of the pineapple and spices will entice your guests.

Can I substitute chicken with other meats in this recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on chicken to complement the pineapple, you can easily swap it out for other meats such as turkey, beef, or lamb. Each option brings a unique flavor profile while still allowing the sweet and savory aspects of the dish to shine through. If you choose beef or lamb, consider marinating them first to enhance tenderness and taste. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on your chosen meat to ensure everything cooks thoroughly. For more inspiration, check out this teriyaki salmon dish recipe.

How do I store leftovers of Pineapple Chicken and Rice?

To store leftovers of Pineapple Chicken and Rice properly, allow it to cool down to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. This method helps maintain freshness and prevents bacterial growth. Refrigerate within two hours for optimal safety. The dish can last up to three days in the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist, as refrigeration may dry it out slightly. Heat thoroughly until steaming hot before enjoying again!

Is Pineapple Chicken and Rice suitable for meal prep?

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is an excellent choice for meal prep due to its versatility and ease of preparation. Cook a larger batch during the weekend, then divide it into individual portions for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Its flavors meld beautifully when stored, making it even tastier after a day in the fridge. Just remember to store each portion in airtight containers to keep them fresh. This dish not only saves time but also ensures you enjoy delicious home-cooked meals all week long.

Conclusion for Pineapple Chicken and Rice:

In summary, Pineapple Chicken and Rice is an easy-to-make dish that combines savory chicken with sweet pineapple for an irresistible flavor profile. With simple ingredients like rice, chicken, and fresh produce, you can create a delightful meal perfect for any occasion. Honey Garlic Shrimp Recipe Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe by trying different meats or adding additional vegetables based on your preference. Honey Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Whether you enjoy it fresh or save leftovers for later, this dish promises satisfying flavors that everyone will love!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Pineapple Chicken and Rice

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delightful tropical dish that transforms your dinner into a Hawaiian getaway. Juicy chicken is sautéed with sweet pineapple and aromatic spices, then combined with fluffy rice for a comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and impressively delicious. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish will quickly become a favorite!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lb)
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 cup fruit juice (pineapple or orange)
• Olive oil for sautéing

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Dice chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince garlic and ginger.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chicken with garlic and ginger until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
3. Add pineapple chunks along with their juice; stir to combine.
4. Add rice and water (or broth) according to package instructions. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer and cover.
5. Cook for 15-20 minutes until rice is fluffy and flavors meld.
6. Fluff rice with a fork before serving and drizzle with soy sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 90mg