Description
Discover how to make this easy and flavorful Pineapple Chicken and Rice. This one-pan dish combines tender chicken, sweet pineapple, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup pineapple, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken: Seasoning and Searing
- Cut Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes.
- Season: Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Cook the Chicken: Achieving a Golden-Brown Exterior
- Heat Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet (with a lid) over medium heat.
- Add Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the hot skillet.
- Cook Until Browned: Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown on all sides and fully cooked through.
- Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Check for Doneness: The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Building a Flavorful Base
- Add Vegetables: In the same skillet (without cleaning it), add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper.
- Cook Until Softened: Sauté the vegetables over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent and the bell pepper is slightly tender.
4. Add Pineapple: Incorporating Sweetness and Tang
- Add Pineapple: Add the cubed pineapple to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Cook Briefly: Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the pineapple to heat through and release some of its juices.
5. Add Rice and Liquids: Creating a Flavorful Rice Pilaf
- Stir in Rice: Add the uncooked jasmine rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine it with the vegetables and pineapple.
- Pour in Broth: Pour in the chicken broth.
- Add Seasonings: Add the soy sauce, grated fresh ginger, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Simmer Until Rice is Cooked: Achieving a Fluffy Texture
- Bring to Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce Heat and Cover: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly with a lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes.
- Tip: Do not lift the lid during the simmering process, as this will allow steam to escape and may affect the cooking time and texture of the rice.
- Check for Doneness: The rice is done when it’s tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Combine Chicken and Rice: Bringing it All Together
- Return Chicken: Return the cooked chicken (and any accumulated juices) to the skillet with the cooked rice and vegetables.
- Mix Well: Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the rice.
- Heat Through: Heat through for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld.
8. Garnish and Serve: The Finishing Touches
- Garnish: Garnish the Pineapple Chicken and Rice with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve Hot: Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!