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Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, savory flavors, and vibrant ingredients, creating a satisfying and refreshing meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Fusion
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Chicken Breast or Thighs Tender and juicy, chicken that easily absorbs flavors.
  • 1.5 cups Cooked Rice Provides a hearty base to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • 1 cup Pineapple Chunks Juicy and sweet, adding texture and flavor.
  • 1/2 whole Red Bell Pepper, diced Offers crunch and a touch of sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup Green Onions, chopped Adds a mild onion flavor and freshness.
  • 2 tbsp Olive or Sesame Oil Contributes richness and enhances overall flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Adds aromatic depth.
  • 1/2 cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce Adds a salty, umami flavor.
  • 1/3 cup Pineapple Juice Provides a refreshing contrast.
  • 2 tbsp Honey or Brown Sugar Balances savory notes with sweetness.
  • 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar Adds brightness to the dish.
  • 1 tsp Cornstarch Helps thicken the sauce.
  • 1 tbsp Water Used to create the cornstarch slurry.
  • to taste Sesame seeds for serving For garnish.
  • optional Crushed red pepper Adds heat for those who like a kick.

Method
 

Cooking the Chicken
  1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat until it shimmers.
  2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 6 to 8 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Preparing the Sauce
  1. Sauté the minced garlic in the same pan for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, and vinegar. Stir and let it simmer.
  3. Combine cornstarch with water to make a slurry and add it to the sauce. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Return the chicken to the pan with the pineapple chunks and diced red bell pepper. Stir to coat.
  2. Gently fold in the cooked rice and heat through for about 2 minutes.
Serving
  1. Plate the dish, garnishing with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, pineapple juice, and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking. Use pre-cooked rice to save time, and store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.