Description
Bring a tropical twist to your dinner with this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice. Tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and a flavorful sauce come together in one pan for a delicious and satisfying meal. This dish is easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and packed with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup pineapple juice (from canned pineapple or fresh)
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 3 green onions, sliced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Rice:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
In a bowl, combine the chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let it marinate while you prepare the sauce and vegetables.
In a small bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the bell pepper for 2 minutes, then add the pineapple chunks. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until slightly caramelized.
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the sauce and stir to coat. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
Spoon the pineapple chicken over cooked rice. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh pineapple for a more vibrant flavor, but canned works well for convenience.
- For extra crunch, add cashews or water chestnuts.
- Want it spicier? Increase the red pepper flakes or add sriracha.
- Swap the protein: This dish works great with shrimp, tofu, or even pork.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired