Description
A sweet and savory one-pan meal with tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and flavorful rice—perfect for an easy weeknight dinner! This dish combines tropical flavors with a hint of spice for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- ½ cup pineapple juice (from the can or fresh)
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- ½ cup bell peppers, diced (red, yellow, or green)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until lightly browned.
2️⃣ Add the rice: Stir in the uncooked rice, coating it with the seasonings and oil for extra flavor.
3️⃣ Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4️⃣ Simmer: Pour the sauce over the chicken and rice. Add pineapple chunks and diced bell peppers. Stir to combine.
5️⃣ Cover and cook: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6️⃣ Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- Crunchy twist: Toss in cashews or chopped almonds before serving for added texture.
- Extra tangy? Add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice before serving.
- Prefer dark meat? Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier result.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes