Perfect Pineapple Chicken Rice Bake
This Pineapple Chicken Rice Bake is a comforting and flavorful casserole featuring juicy pineapple, tender chicken, and fluffy rice. It's a one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delightful tropical twist that the whole family will enjoy.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing spoon
- Oven
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp paprika
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup chopped onion
- ½ cup chopped bell pepper any color
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
- Shredded coconut, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken cubes and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a large 9x13 inch baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, crushed pineapple (with juice!), onion, bell pepper, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well.
- Spread the cooked chicken evenly over the rice mixture in the baking dish.
- Gently press the chicken down slightly so it's partially submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the top to lightly brown.
- Let the Pineapple Chicken Rice Bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and/or shredded coconut, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For a richer flavor, swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs. Add other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or water chestnuts. Spice it up with red pepper flakes or sriracha. For a cheesy topping, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking. You can meal prep this dish by dividing it into airtight containers and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Adjust sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of brown sugar. You can use fresh pineapple if you prefer.