Description
This Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe combines juicy chicken breast sautéed to perfection with a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce. Enhanced by a medley of colorful vegetables and served over fluffy cooked rice, this dish offers a tropical burst of flavors that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken
- 1 lb Chicken Breast (Substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option)
- 2 tbsp Olive or Sesame Oil (Used for sautéing)
For the Sauce
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced (Use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable)
- 1/2 cup Soy Sauce (Low sodium is a healthier alternative)
- 1/3 cup Pineapple Juice (Use juice from canned pineapple for convenience)
- 2 tbsp Honey or Brown Sugar (Consider using maple syrup as a substitute)
- 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar (Can use white vinegar in a pinch)
- 1 tsp Cornstarch (Mix with 1 tbsp of water to avoid lumps)
- 1 tbsp Water
For the Main Dish
- 1.5 cups Cooked Rice (Use white, brown, or jasmine rice based on preference)
- 1 cup Pineapple Chunks (Opt for fresh or drained canned chunks)
- 1/2 whole Red Bell Pepper, diced (Substitute with other bell peppers or snap peas)
- 1/4 cup Green Onions, chopped (Chives make a great substitute)
Optional Toppings
- Sesame seeds (For serving; customize based on taste preferences)
- Crushed red pepper (Optional for extra spice)
Instructions
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive or sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chicken breast pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Set aside on a plate once done.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, and vinegar. Stir well, bringing to a simmer.
- Thicken and Combine: Stir in the cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it becomes glossy. Return the sautéed chicken back to the pan, then add pineapple chunks and diced red bell pepper, stirring to coat everything in the sauce.
- Add the Rice: Gently fold in the cooked rice until it is warmed through and everything is well combined. This should take about 2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve hot, and enjoy the tropical burst of flavors!
Notes
- Optional: Top with crushed red pepper for an extra kick.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breast for a juicier texture.
- Use low sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium intake.
- Fresh or canned pineapple chunks both work well in this recipe.
