Pineapple Chicken Rice Recipe

🍍 Pineapple Chicken Rice Recipe

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

🛒 Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white or jasmine rice
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)

For the Pineapple Sauce:

• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Garnishes:

• Green onions, chopped
• Sesame seeds (optional)
• Fresh cilantro (optional)

🔪 Instructions:

1. Cook the Rice

• Rinse rice under cold water until clear.
• In a saucepan, combine rice, broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
• Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender. Fluff and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a skillet or wok over medium heat.
• Add chicken, season with garlic powder, onion powder, ginger, salt, and pepper.
• Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked (165°F / 74°C). Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Pineapple Sauce

• In the same skillet, sauté pineapple chunks for 2–3 minutes until slightly caramelized.
• In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and cornstarch slurry.
• Pour into the skillet, stir, and simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
• Add chili flakes if using.

4. Combine Everything

• Return chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce.
• Add cooked rice and mix well. Cook for 3–5 more minutes until heated through.

5. Garnish and Serve

• Top with green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

✅ Tips & Variations:

• Add Veggies: Bell peppers, carrots, peas, or corn go great here.
• Protein Swaps: Try shrimp, tofu, or beef instead of chicken.
• Make it Spicy: Add fresh chilies or a dash of sriracha.
• Tropical Twist: Use coconut rice for a richer, sweeter flavor.

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