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Pineapple Chicken with Rice

Pineapple Chicken with Rice
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Pineapple Chicken with Rice is a vibrant, sweet and savory one-pot dish featuring tender chicken, juicy pineapple chunks, and fluffy long-grain rice. This flavorful, nutritious, and family-friendly meal combines fresh aromatics, colorful vegetables, and a glossy sauce to create a perfectly balanced tropical entree that is excellent for meal prep and easy to customize.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, diced

Produce

  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

Grains

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice

Seasonings and Oils

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use gluten-free or tamari if needed)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chop the bell peppers and green onions. Drain and set aside the fresh pineapple chunks so everything is ready to go.
  2. Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, then cook according to package instructions until fluffy but not mushy.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant. Add the diced chicken and cook until it develops a golden crust and is nearly cooked through.
  4. Add Vegetables and Pineapple: Stir in the chopped bell peppers and pineapple chunks. Allow them to warm through, releasing their flavors and enhancing the sweet and savory balance.
  5. Create the Sauce and Combine: In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey, and optional chili flakes. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well. Let it simmer briefly until everything is coated with a rich, glossy sauce.
  6. Combine with Rice and Garnish: Add the cooked rice directly to the skillet, tossing carefully so every grain absorbs the sauce. Finish by sprinkling fresh green onions on top. Serve hot for maximum flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh pineapple for a brighter, more natural sweetness and better texture compared to canned.
  • Do not overcook the chicken; cook just until opaque to keep it tender and juicy.
  • For extra flavor, lightly toast the rice in oil before cooking.
  • Adjust the sweetness to your preference by starting with less honey and adding more if desired.
  • Use a wide skillet or wok to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: pineapple chicken, sweet and savory, one pot meal, easy dinner, meal prep, gluten free, Asian inspired

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/pineapple-chicken-with-rice/