Description
Discover the perfect balance of sweet and savory with this Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe. Juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and flavorful rice come together in one easy, delicious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Essential Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp ginger (grated)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 green onion (chopped, for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
Optional Add-Ons:
- Bell peppers (adds crunch and color)
- Cashews or almonds (for extra texture)
- Coconut milk (for a creamier version)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Chop the pineapple into small chunks if using fresh.
- Mince garlic and grate ginger.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Caramelize the Pineapple
- In the same pan, add pineapple chunks and cook for about 3 minutes until caramelized.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Lower heat to medium.
- Pour in pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
- Stir and let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return chicken to the pan and mix well.
- Add cooked rice and stir until everything is coated in the sauce.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor.
- Marinate the chicken in soy sauce and pineapple juice for extra tenderness.
- Don’t overcook the rice to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes