Introduction to the Recipe
Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a vibrant, flavorful one-pot meal that brings together tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and aromatic jasmine rice. This dish perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors with a hint of ginger and soy sauce, making it a satisfying and wholesome dinner option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of juicy pineapple and tender chicken offers a tropical twist to a classic chicken and rice dish that both adults and kids will love.
This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together quickly, with minimal cleanup, making it a great choice for anyone who enjoys fuss-free cooking without sacrificing taste. The addition of red bell peppers and green onions adds a fresh crunch and color contrast, while sesame seeds finish the dish with a nutty touch.
For those interested in mastering rice cooking techniques or exploring more pineapple-inspired recipes, you might enjoy this guide to cooking perfect jasmine rice or these delicious pineapple chicken recipe ideas.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup pineapple, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add cubed chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same pan, add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the grated ginger and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the jasmine rice to the pan and stir to coat the grains with the oil and aromatics.
- Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, then return the browned chicken to the pan. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, gently fold in the cubed pineapple. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, then garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes :
- Use fresh pineapple for the best texture and sweetness; canned pineapple can be used but drain well to avoid excess liquid.
- Jasmine rice is preferred for its fragrant aroma, but you can substitute with basmati rice or long-grain rice.
- Adjust soy sauce according to taste or use low-sodium to control saltiness.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onion and garlic.
Advanced Techniques
Perfectly Cooking Jasmine Rice
Rinsing jasmine rice under cold water removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming sticky. Use a tight-fitting lid when simmering to trap steam for fluffy, tender grains.
Marinating the Chicken
For extra flavor, marinate the cubed chicken in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking. This adds depth and tenderizes the meat.
Balancing Sweet and Savory
Adjust the amount of pineapple and soy sauce to balance sweetness and saltiness according to your preference. Adding a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice can add a refreshing tang.
Searing Chicken for Texture
Make sure to brown the chicken over medium-high heat without overcrowding the pan. This caramelizes the surface and adds a delightful texture before combining with the rice.
Incorporating Vegetables
Add other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition and color. Sauté them with the onion and bell pepper for an even mix of flavors.
See more advanced recipes at cookingwhite.com
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
Storing Leftovers Properly
Store leftover pineapple chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
Freezing for Future Meals
This dish freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Without Losing Moisture
Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture, or cover when microwaving to keep the dish from drying out.
Maintaining Freshness of Pineapple
If using fresh pineapple, cut just before cooking to retain maximum freshness and sweetness. Store unused pineapple wrapped tightly in the fridge.
Preventing Rice Clumping
Fluff rice gently with a fork after cooking and before storing. This prevents clumping and maintains a light texture when reheated.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Gluten-Free Option
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Low-Sodium Adaptation
Choose low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added salt. Increase fresh herbs or spices like ginger and garlic to compensate for flavor.
Vegetarian Version
Substitute cubed chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Add vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly meal.
Lower-Carb Variation
Replace jasmine rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb, paleo-friendly option. Adjust cooking times accordingly as cauliflower rice cooks faster.
Dairy-Free
This recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
FAQs About the Recipe
Can I use frozen chicken breast?
Yes, thaw the chicken completely before cubing and cooking to ensure even cooking and safe temperature.
What if I don’t have jasmine rice?
Basmati or long-grain white rice can be used as substitutes. Adjust cooking liquid amounts slightly based on rice type.
Can I prepare this dish in a slow cooker?
It’s best cooked on the stovetop for texture, but you can adapt it for slow cooking by combining ingredients and cooking on low for 3-4 hours.
How do I avoid mushy rice?
Do not over-stir the rice while cooking and use the correct liquid-to-rice ratio. Keep the lid on during simmering to trap steam.
Is fresh pineapple better than canned?
Fresh pineapple offers better texture and natural sweetness, but canned pineapple works in a pinch—just drain it well to avoid watery rice.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Why Pineapple Chicken and Rice Is a Must-Try
Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful and balanced meal. The juicy chicken, fragrant jasmine rice, and sweet pineapple create a delightful harmony of tastes and textures that’s sure to please the whole family. This dish is easy to prepare, adaptable to many dietary needs, and packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and lean protein.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining guests with something a little different, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience. It’s also great for meal prep and leftovers, making your life easier without compromising flavor. The bright pops of pineapple and the aromatic ginger and garlic bring a fresh twist that makes this dish stand out from the usual chicken and rice meals.
Try it as a new family favorite or impress friends at your next gathering—it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!