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If you’re craving a dish that brings together bold, tropical flavors with comforting, hearty goodness, the Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe is your next go-to meal. This delightful combination balances the sweet juiciness of pineapple with tender, savory chicken and fluffy jasmine rice, all infused with a subtle tang from soy sauce and cider vinegar. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe delivers a satisfying, colorful plate that’s as nourishing as it is exciting to the palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe lies in its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients that build layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color. Each item plays an essential role, from the juicy pineapple that adds a tropical twist to the perfectly seasoned chicken and aromatic jasmine rice that soak up every bit of goodness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a rich base for browning the chicken and sautéing the rice, enhancing depth of flavor.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender protein star of the dish that soaks up all the zesty, sweet flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Basic seasonings that bring out the natural flavors and balance the dish.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and a beautiful reddish hue to the chicken.
- 1 cup jasmine rice: A fragrant, fluffy grain that absorbs the pineapple broth, keeping each bite moist and flavorful.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Deepens flavor while cooking the rice to perfection with a savory base.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh): The sweet-tart burst that lifts the entire dish with tropical vibrance.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Brings a savory, umami character that perfectly balances the sweetness of the pineapple and brown sugar.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Enhances the natural pineapple sweetness and creates a subtle caramelization.
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar: Adds a gentle tang that brightens the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a mild garlicky depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds a crisp, colorful crunch and a touch of sweetness to the dish.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Offers a vibrant contrast both in color and freshness with mild bitterness.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Delivers a fresh, slightly pungent pop as the perfect garnish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro: Lends an herbaceous, bright finish that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides. Heating olive oil in a large skillet until shimmering, sear the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until you get a gorgeous golden brown crust. This step locks in the juices and sets the flavor foundation—once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Toast the Jasmine Rice
Using the same skillet—don’t clean it just yet because all those meaty flavors are gold—add the jasmine rice and stir it around the hot pan for 1 to 2 minutes. Toasting the rice enhances its nuttiness and helps it stay fluffy, creating a wonderful texture that mixes beautifully with the rest of your dish.
Step 3: Add Liquid and Pineapple for Cooking
Pour in the chicken broth, pineapple chunks, soy sauce, brown sugar, cider vinegar, and garlic powder. Give everything a good stir to combine so the pineapple and spices start mingling with the rice. This savory-sweet liquid bath is essential for infusing the rice with irresistible tropical and umami notes as it cooks.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Vegetables
Gently nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, placing them right on top of the rice mixture. Then, scatter the sliced red and green bell peppers evenly around the chicken. Their fresh crunch and bright colors make the dish pop both visually and in taste.
Step 5: Simmer Until Perfect
Bring the whole skillet mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, covering the pan with a tight-fitting lid. Let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice has tenderly absorbed the liquid and the chicken is cooked through and juicy. This slow simmer allows the flavors to deepen and harmonize beautifully.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs
Once off the heat, sprinkle the chopped green onions and fresh cilantro over the top. These final touches add bursts of freshness and a pop of green that makes the Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe feel like a warm, inviting celebration on a plate.
How to Serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up the finished dish with extra green onions and cilantro to add that fresh herbal lift and a subtle crunch. If you like a little heat, some thinly sliced red chili or a dusting of crushed red pepper flakes can offer a lively contrast to the sweetness. A wedge of lime on the side also gives an optional zing that elevates every bite.
Side Dishes
This dish shines wonderfully on its own but pairs nicely with simple side options such as steamed broccoli or snap peas for a fresh, crisp balance. If you want to keep it tropical, a light cucumber salad with a splash of rice vinegar makes a refreshing companion. The goal is to complement the sweet and savory flavors without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe in hollowed-out pineapple halves to amp up the tropical vibe instantly—perfect for entertaining or a festive family dinner. Alternatively, layer the rice and chicken in a shallow casserole dish, garnish with fresh herbs, and bake for a few extra minutes for a slightly crispy top that adds texture excitement.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the rice and chicken together allows the flavors to meld even more, making leftover bites just as delicious as the first serving.
Freezing
This dish freezes well! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the rice moist. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until evenly heated through. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs after warming revives the vibrancy of the dish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice in this recipe?
Absolutely! While jasmine rice offers a lovely fragrance and softness, you can substitute with basmati or even brown rice for a heartier texture. Just adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts accordingly.
Is fresh pineapple better than canned for this recipe?
Fresh pineapple adds the best brightness and texture, but canned pineapple works perfectly well too and is especially handy if fresh pineapple is out of season or unavailable. Just be sure to drain the canned pineapple well to avoid excess liquid.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! To keep it gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with a tamari or coconut aminos alternative. These provide the same savory punch without gluten.
What can I substitute for chicken breasts?
Tender chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative, offering extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust cooking times slightly, as thighs tend to cook a bit faster and stay moist.
Is this recipe spicy?
The Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe is naturally mild and balanced, making it great for all taste preferences. However, you can easily add some heat with chili flakes, fresh jalapeños, or a spicy sauce if you prefer a little kick.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving this Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe a try—it’s a wonderful dish that brings sunshine to your table with such ease. With its vibrant colors, delightful flavors, and comforting textures, it turns everyday ingredients into something truly special. Trust me, once you make it, it’s going to become one of those recipes you come back to again and again.
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Print
Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
Description
This Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a flavorful blend of jasmine rice, pineapple chunks, and bell peppers, all cooked together in a savory-sweet sauce. The dish is seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, soy sauce, and brown sugar, delivering a delightful balance of tangy and savory flavors perfect for a quick, one-pan meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Rice and Sauce
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Vegetables and Garnish
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides to infuse flavor before cooking.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side until they are browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Toast the Rice: In the same skillet, add the jasmine rice and stir for 1-2 minutes, lightly toasting it to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Make the Sauce: Add chicken broth, pineapple chunks, soy sauce, brown sugar, cider vinegar, and garlic powder to the skillet. Stir well until all ingredients are combined into a flavorful cooking liquid.
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables: Place the chicken breasts back on top of the rice mixture in the skillet. Arrange the sliced red and green bell peppers evenly around the chicken.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed, allowing flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped green onions and fresh cilantro over the top before serving for a burst of freshness and color.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes when seasoning the chicken.
- You can substitute jasmine rice with basmati or long-grain white rice if preferred.
- Use fresh pineapple chunks for the best natural sweetness, but canned pineapple works well too.
- Cover the skillet tightly during simmering to prevent liquid from evaporating too quickly.
- This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.
