Pineapple Chicken and Rice: Sweet, Savory, Effortlessly Easy

Pineapple Chicken and Rice: Sweet, Savory, Effortlessly Easy

Author: Arwa Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings Category: Desserts Cuisine: Asian Diet: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Chicken Breast (or thighs for a juicier option)
  • 2 tbsp Olive or Sesame Oil
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 cup Soy Sauce (low sodium recommended)
  • 1/3 cup Pineapple Juice
  • 2 tbsp Honey or Brown Sugar
  • 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1 tsp Cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water)
  • 1 tbsp Water
  • 1.5 cups Cooked Rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
  • 1 cup Pineapple Chunks (fresh or drained canned)
  • 1/2 Red Bell Pepper (diced)
  • 1/4 cup Green Onions (chopped)
  • Sesame seeds (for serving)
  • Crushed red pepper (optional for spice)
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Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken and rice: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, season with salt and pepper, and prepare cooked rice if needed.
  2. Make the sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey or brown sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch slurry in a bowl.
  3. Sauté aromatics and chicken: Heat oil in a skillet, add garlic, cook until fragrant, then add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
  4. Add veggies and pineapple: Toss in red pepper and pineapple chunks, cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in the sauce: Add the sauce to the skillet, bring to a simmer, and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes.
  6. Finish and fluff: Stir in the cooked rice and green onions, adjusting seasonings as needed.
  7. Serve and garnish: Plate the dish, sprinkle with sesame seeds and crushed red pepper if desired, and enjoy hot.

Notes

  1. Great for meal prep and leftovers. Can substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp, and use tamari for a gluten-free version.