Pineapple Chicken and Rice

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Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Juicy chicken breast sautéed with garlic and onion, tossed with sweet pineapple, and served over fluffy rice. This dish balances sweet and savory flavors and comes together easily for weeknight dinners.

 Time

  • Prep: 10 minutes

  • Cook: 25 minutes

  • Total: ~35 minutes

 Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cubed

  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1½ cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)

Optional Sauce (Recommended)

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari)

  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

  • 1 tablespoon pineapple juice

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish (Optional)

  • Chopped green onions or parsley

  • Sesame seeds

 Instructions

  1. Cook rice according to package instructions; set aside.

  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  3. Add onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until soft.

  4. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

  5. Add cubed chicken; cook 6–8 minutes until lightly golden and cooked through.

  6. Stir in pineapple chunks and optional sauce ingredients.

  7. Simmer 3–5 minutes until slightly sticky and glazed.

  8. Serve hot over rice and garnish as desired.

 Description Notes

  • Pineapple adds natural sweetness and moisture to the chicken.

  • Sauce is optional but enhances flavor and shine.

  • Works well as a stir-fry or rice-bowl meal.

 Tips & Variations

  • Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or sriracha

  • Veggie boost: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli

  • Low-sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce

  • One-pan version: Stir cooked rice directly into the skillet

 Servings

  • Serves: 3–4

 Approximate Nutritional Info (per serving)

  • Calories: ~380

  • Protein: ~32 g

  • Carbohydrates: ~35 g

  • Fat: ~10 g

  • Fiber: ~3 g

(Values vary by rice and sauce used)

 Benefits

  • ✅ High in lean protein

  • ✅ Naturally sweetened by pineapple

  • ✅ Balanced carbs for energy

  • ✅ Family-friendly flavors

  • ✅ Easy to customize

 Q & A

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead?
A: Yes! Thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely—stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I use canned pineapple?
A: Yes, just drain well to avoid excess liquid.

Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: Yes—freeze without rice for best texture.

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