Description
Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that perfectly balances the sweetness of pineapple with the savory notes of tender chicken and aromatic jasmine rice. With colorful vegetables and a hint of ginger, this meal feels fresh and light yet hearty enough to satisfy. It’s a great option for an easy weeknight dinner that’s packed with both taste and nutrition.
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
Instructions
1️⃣ In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2️⃣ In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3️⃣ Add the cubed pineapple to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the juices to release and the flavors to meld.
4️⃣ Stir in the jasmine rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
5️⃣ Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
6️⃣ Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine with the rice and vegetables. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, or until everything is heated through.
7️⃣ Serve the pineapple chicken and rice hot, garnished with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a fresh, flavorful finish.
Notes
For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken beforehand in a little soy sauce and ginger. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the vegetables. Fresh pineapple gives the best results, but canned pineapple (in juice, not syrup) can be used in a pinch. This dish is highly versatile and can be customized with additional vegetables like peas, carrots, or snap peas to add even more color and texture.