EASY PINEAPPLE CHICKEN AND RICE

Imagine tender chicken pieces, coated in a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce, nestled on a bed of fluffy rice – a symphony of flavors that dances on your tongue. This Pineapple Chicken And Rice recipe is your passport to a quick, satisfying, and totally craveable dinner that the whole family will adore. Let’s get cooking and bring this tropical delight to your table!

What You’ll Need: The Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Breasts: 1.5 lbs, boneless and skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup
• Pineapple Juice: 1/4 cup
• Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons, packed
• Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated
• Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
• Vegetable Oil: 1 tablespoon

For the Pineapple Sauce:

• Pineapple Chunks: 1 cup, fresh or canned (drained)
• Bell Pepper: 1 cup, chopped (I like using a mix of red and green for color!)
• Onion: 1/2 cup, chopped
• Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Pineapple Juice: 1/2 cup
• Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons, packed
• Ketchup: 2 tablespoons
• Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
• Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon
• Water: 2 tablespoons

For the Rice:

• Rice: 2 cups, long-grain white rice (or your favorite type!)
• Water: 4 cups
• Salt: 1 teaspoon

Optional Garnishes:

• Green Onions: Sliced
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted
• Red Pepper Flakes: For a little heat!

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5-10 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
3. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be!

Step 3: Prepare the Pineapple Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. This is your cornstarch slurry.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, and rice vinegar. Set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the marinade) and sprinkle with the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, tossing to coat evenly. This helps the chicken brown nicely and thickens the sauce.
3. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Pineapple Sauce

1. Add the chopped bell pepper and onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Pour in the soy sauce mixture and bring to a simmer.
3. Add the pineapple chunks and cornstarch slurry to the skillet. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the pineapple sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Serve the Pineapple Chicken And Rice over a bed of fluffy rice.
3. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Enjoy your delicious and Easy Family Meals Healthy!

Troubleshooting Tips and Tricks

Sometimes, even the simplest recipes can have a few hiccups. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

Sauce Too Thin?

If your sauce isn’t thickening up, it’s likely because the cornstarch wasn’t properly incorporated. Make sure you whisk the cornstarch and water together thoroughly before adding it to the sauce. If it’s still too thin, you can mix another teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and add it to the sauce, stirring constantly until thickened.

Chicken Overcooked?

The key to juicy chicken is to not overcook it! Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the chicken, and cook it just until it’s cooked through. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Using a meat thermometer is a great way to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature (165°F) without overcooking.

Rice Too Sticky?

Rinsing the rice before cooking is crucial for preventing stickiness. Also, make sure you’re using the correct water-to-rice ratio. Too much water will result in sticky rice. If your rice is still sticky, try spreading it out on a baking sheet to cool slightly. This will help the grains separate.

Spice It Up! Variations and Additions

Want to put your own spin on this classic Pineapple Chicken And Rice? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Add Some Heat:

For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pineapple sauce or a dash of sriracha to the marinade. You could also include a finely chopped jalapeño pepper with the bell peppers and onions.

Make it Creamy:

Stir in a tablespoon or two of coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier sauce. This adds a subtle coconut flavor that complements the pineapple perfectly.

Add More Veggies:

Feel free to add other vegetables to the pineapple sauce, such as broccoli florets, snow peas, or carrots. This is a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients and make it an even more Weeknight Healthy Dinners option.

Try Different Protein:

While chicken is the star of this recipe, you can easily substitute it with shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Side Dish Suggestions

Pineapple Chicken And Rice is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to add a side dish, here are a few suggestions:

• Steamed Broccoli: A simple and healthy side that pairs well with the sweet and tangy flavors of the chicken.
• Asian Slaw: A refreshing and crunchy slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette.
• Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with vermicelli noodles, vegetables, and shrimp or tofu.

Perfect for Weeknight Healthy Dinners

This Pineapple Chicken And Rice recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect choice for Weeknight Healthy Dinners. It’s a great way to get a satisfying and nutritious meal on the table in under an hour. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy!

Explore More Delicious Recipes

If you enjoyed this Pineapple Chicken And Rice recipe, be sure to check out some of my other favorite Asian-inspired dishes like Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl or the Caramelized Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken. For a fun appetizer, try the Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs. If you are in a hurry, try the Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken. And if you want a baked version of this recipe, check out the Pineapple Chicken Rice Bake or maybe the Pineapple Chicken Rice. There’s something for everyone!

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead:

You can save time by prepping some of the ingredients in advance. The chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours ahead of time. The pineapple sauce can also be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before adding the chicken.

Storage:

Leftover Pineapple Chicken And Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Easy Family Meals Healthy

Pineapple Chicken And Rice is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of Easy Family Meals Healthy. Its vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a winner for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving a delicious and satisfying meal. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a taste of the tropics right in your own kitchen!