Before we dive into this delicious recipe, you might be wondering what pairs nicely with pineapple chicken and rice. I often serve this dish with a fresh garden salad to balance the flavors.
The cool crunch of lettuce and veggies complements the warmth and sweetness of the chicken and rice. You can also consider some grilled or roasted vegetables, like bell peppers and zucchini. They add color and nutrition to the plate.
And don’t forget dessert! A zesty lemon sorbet is a perfect way to cleanse the palate after a tropical feast. Now, let’s explore why this dish is fantastic in more detail.
My Experience with the Ingredients
The great news is that this dish doesn’t call for anything too exotic. We’re using ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Picture this: juicy boneless chicken breast, diced into hearty chunks.
I often enjoy the convenience of store-bought pineapple chunks packed in natural juice. They save time but still deliver plenty of flavor. And jasmine rice? Well, it’s my go-to for its wonderful aroma and fluffy texture.
As I went through these ingredients for the first time, I felt a discovery waiting to unfold. The minced garlic and smoked paprika were a pleasant surprise. They gave the chicken an unexpected depth. I was hooked after my very first bite. Alright, let’s get right into the nitty-gritty!
Ingredients List
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast, diced into 2-inch chunks
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup aromatic jasmine rice (or any long-grain variety)
- 1 cup rich chicken stock
- 20-ounce can of pineapple chunks in natural juice
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s warm, toss in the diced chicken. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. You want it to turn a lovely golden brown. Don’t be in a rush.
Let it sizzle. Enjoy the enticing aroma filling your kitchen. Add the minced garlic and smoked paprika, stirring everything together. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 2: Incorporate the Rice
Now, here comes the fun part! Stir in the jasmine rice, coating it well with the spices and chicken. You want every grain to absorb that beautiful golden color. Next, pour in the chicken stock and the pineapple chunks with their juice. Give it all a gentle mix.
Step 3: Simmer and Cook
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the flavors, and the chicken to stay tender and juicy. It’s like a one-pot trip to flavor paradise!
Step 4: Add Green Onions
When the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through, remove it from heat. Stir in the finely chopped green onions for a fresh pop of flavor. They also add a nice crunch, complementing the sweetness of the pineapple.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Scoop the pineapple chicken and rice onto individual plates. Thank your taste buds for taking this adventure. Enjoy it with that garden salad you prepped, or perhaps a side of roasted veggies.
Recipe Notes
- Chicken Breast: I recommend using boneless chicken breasts for their quick cooking time. They soak up flavors beautifully and stay juicy.
- Rice: Jasmine rice not only has a pleasant aroma, but it also cooks well without becoming mushy.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key. It adds an aromatic depth.
- Smoked Paprika: This spice delivers a subtle smokiness that takes your chicken to the next level.
- Pineapple: Using pineapple in natural juice avoids extra sugars and keeps the dish healthy.
- Green Onions: These are more than just garnish; they contribute a zesty crunch that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
Recipe Variations
- Add Some Heat: For those who enjoy a kick, add chopped jalapeños or drizzle with a spicy sauce.
- Swap Proteins: Shrimp or tofu can easily replace chicken for those looking for alternatives.
- Different Rice: Quinoa or brown rice can give you a different texture and nutritional benefits.
- Tropical Twist: Add in some diced bell peppers or even mango for an extra layer of flavor.
- One-Pan Wonder: Cook everything in the oven! Just layer all ingredients in a baking dish, cover tightly, and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- Coconut Milk: Swap some chicken stock for coconut milk for a creamy and tropical flavor.
Conclusion
Pineapple chicken and rice is more than a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that combines convenience and tantalizing flavors. This dish is versatile, easily tailored to your tastes, and consistently impresses at any gathering.
The blend of juicy chicken and sweet pineapple over fluffy rice creates a harmony that’s hard to resist. As someone who truly enjoys getting hands-on in the kitchen, I can tell you firsthand that this recipe has earned its place in my meal rotation.
Try it, tweak it, and above all, enjoy every single bite!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
- Cheesy Chicken and Rice Copycat Recipe
- How to Make Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Best Chicken and Rice Bowl Recipe
Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals
Description
I’ll admit, sometimes I find myself in a cooking rut. You know, where smoothies become my breakfast, lunch, and dinner?
I've been there! But when I discovered the joy of making pineapple chicken and rice, I felt like I had landed on a culinary goldmine. This dish strikes a beautiful balance of sweet and savory.
Plus, it’s simple, healthy, and satisfying. Whether you’re navigating a busy weeknight or planning for a weekend gathering, this recipe is your ticket to flavor town!
Why do I love this recipe so much? Well, for starters, it’s packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the rice.
The pineapple brings in vitamin C and adds a refreshing twist. I’ve welcomed this dish into my kitchen repeatedly, and it always gets rave reviews. So, grab a fork, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
-
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it's warm, toss in the diced chicken. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. You want it to turn a lovely golden brown. Don't be in a rush.
Let it sizzle. Enjoy the enticing aroma filling your kitchen. Add the minced garlic and smoked paprika, stirring everything together. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 2: Incorporate the Rice
-
Now, here comes the fun part! Stir in the jasmine rice, coating it well with the spices and chicken. You want every grain to absorb that beautiful golden color. Next, pour in the chicken stock and the pineapple chunks with their juice. Give it all a gentle mix.
Step 3: Simmer and Cook
-
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the flavors, and the chicken to stay tender and juicy. It’s like a one-pot trip to flavor paradise!
Step 4: Add Green Onions
-
When the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through, remove it from heat. Stir in the finely chopped green onions for a fresh pop of flavor. They also add a nice crunch, complementing the sweetness of the pineapple.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
-
Scoop the pineapple chicken and rice onto individual plates. Thank your taste buds for taking this adventure. Enjoy it with that garden salad you prepped, or perhaps a side of roasted veggies.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 384kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8.9g14%
- Saturated Fat 2.2g12%
- Trans Fat 0.1g
- Cholesterol 39mg13%
- Sodium 142mg6%
- Total Carbohydrate 57g19%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 20g
- Protein 19g38%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Chicken Breast: I recommend using boneless chicken breasts for their quick cooking time. They soak up flavors beautifully and stay juicy.
- Rice: Jasmine rice not only has a pleasant aroma, but it also cooks well without becoming mushy.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key. It adds an aromatic depth.
- Smoked Paprika: This spice delivers a subtle smokiness that takes your chicken to the next level.
- Pineapple: Using pineapple in natural juice avoids extra sugars and keeps the dish healthy.
- Green Onions: These are more than just garnish; they contribute a zesty crunch that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
