Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

1. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic.

3. Prepare the Rice:

1. Add the rice to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Stir for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice and infuse it with the flavors.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and chili flakes (if using). Stir to combine, making sure the rice is evenly coated.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

4. Add the Pineapple and Chicken:

1. Once the rice is cooked, stir in the pineapple chunks and cooked chicken.
2. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the pineapple to heat through and the flavors to meld.

5. Serve and Garnish:

1. Once everything is well combined and heated, remove the skillet from the heat.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, parsley, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds for extra flavor and color.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetables: Add bell peppers, carrots, or peas to the dish for extra color and texture. Simply sauté them with the onions.
• Sweetness Level: Adjust the honey or brown sugar to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet dish, use less honey and opt for a more savory sauce.
• For Extra Flavor: Add a squeeze of lime juice right before serving for a zesty kick.
• Rice Substitutes: Try using brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative. If using brown rice, you may need to increase the cooking time and liquid amount.

Why You’ll Love Pineapple Chicken and Rice

• A Tropical Twist on a Classic: This dish brings the delightful flavors of pineapple into a savory setting, creating a balance that everyone will love.
• Easy One-Pan Meal: With minimal prep and cleanup, this is a great dish for busy nights when you need something quick but satisfying.
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prepping lunches for the week.

Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or both, Pineapple Chicken and Rice delivers in every bite. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite!