Description
This Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe combines tender chicken, sweet pineapple chunks, and flavorful vegetables all cooked together in one skillet for a delicious and hassle-free meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- ½ cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Grains and Liquids
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks in juice, drained (reserve juice)
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sauté Vegetables: Stir in chopped onions, diced bell peppers, and minced garlic into the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become softened and aromatic.
- Add Rice and Liquids: Add the long-grain white rice to the skillet, mixing thoroughly with the chicken and vegetables. Pour in the reserved pineapple juice along with the chicken broth to combine flavors and provide cooking liquid for the rice.
- Incorporate Pineapple and Soy Sauce: Gently fold in the pineapple chunks and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Simmer to Finish: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquids. Remove from heat and let it stand briefly before serving.
Notes
- Drain the pineapple chunks, but reserve the juice for cooking to add natural sweetness.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt content if desired.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.
- Ensure rice is fully covered by liquid for even cooking; add extra broth if necessary.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Fusion
Keywords: pineapple chicken rice, easy chicken recipe, one skillet meal, quick dinner, sweet and savory chicken