Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and fragrant rice for a satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and packed with tropical flair. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
To start, gather your ingredients, including boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, fresh pineapple chunks, rice (preferably long-grain like jasmine or basmati), and a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and peas.
Begin by cooking the chicken in a skillet until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Season it with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices for added flavor. Once the chicken is cooked, set it aside and keep it warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.
In the same skillet, sauté your vegetables until they’re tender and aromatic. You can use any combination of vegetables you like, but bell peppers, onions, and peas work particularly well in this recipe. Add the fresh pineapple chunks to the skillet and cook them until they’re heated through and slightly caramelized, releasing their natural sweetness.
Meanwhile, cook the rice according to package instructions until it’s fluffy and tender. You can use chicken broth instead of water to cook the rice for added flavor, or stir in some coconut milk for a creamy and tropical twist.
Once the rice is cooked, add it to the skillet with the chicken, vegetables, and pineapple, stirring everything together until it’s well combined. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a splash of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce to the dish, as well as a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish.
Serve the Pineapple Chicken and Rice hot, straight from the skillet, for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. The tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and fragrant rice come together to create a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to make.