Pineapple Chicken and Brown Rice
Savor the perfect balance of sweet and savory with our Pineapple Chicken and Brown Rice dish. This tropical-inspired recipe combines tender chicken, juicy pineapple chunks, and nutty brown rice in a flavorful sauce, creating a healthy and satisfying meal that's both easy to prepare and packed with delicious island vibes.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the pineapple chunks, grated ginger, and soy sauce to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine with the pineapple mixture.
- Serve the chicken and pineapple mixture over the cooked jasmine rice.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Notes
Tips and Variations:
Use fresh pineapple chunks for the best flavor and texture.
Substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
Add some red bell pepper slices or snow peas to the skillet with the onion and garlic for added color and nutrition.
Use coconut milk instead of pineapple juice for a creamier sauce.
Serve the dish with some steamed broccoli or green beans for a complet