Description
Tropical paradise meets comfort food in this delightful Pineapple Chicken & Rice dish, blending sweet and savory flavors from Caribbean-inspired cuisine. Juicy chicken nestled with caramelized pineapple chunks over fluffy rice promises a satisfying meal that transports taste buds to sunny shores.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Grain and Liquid Base:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
Flavor Enhancers and Seasonings:
- 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Warm a spacious skillet over medium temperature, drizzling olive oil across the surface for an even coating.
- Sear the chicken pieces until they develop a golden-brown exterior and reach complete internal doneness, approximately 6-7 minutes. Transfer the protein to a separate plate.
- Introduce diced onions to the identical skillet, gently caramelizing them until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Layer rice, chicken broth, vibrant pineapple chunks, umami-rich soy sauce, sweet honey, aromatic garlic powder, zesty ginger, and seasoning into the skillet.
- Elevate the mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce heat to a gentle simmer, covering the skillet to trap moisture and steam.
- Allow the rice to absorb liquid and become tender, approximately 15-16 minutes, monitoring to prevent burning.
- Reintegrate the previously cooked chicken into the rice mixture, thoroughly combining all components and warming through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Enhance the visual appeal and flavor profile by sprinkling chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds across the surface.
- Serve immediately while the dish remains piping hot, ensuring maximum taste and textural enjoyment.
Notes
- Boost protein by using chunks of firm tofu for a vegetarian version that keeps the same delicious flavor profile.
- Choose fresh pineapple over canned for brighter, more vibrant taste and reduced sugar content.
- Consider using brown rice instead of white for added fiber and nutritional benefits, which might require slightly longer cooking time.
- Dial down the sodium by selecting low-sodium soy sauce and reducing added salt to create a heart-healthier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg