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A vibrant plate of pineapple chicken and rice, showcasing colorful ingredients and a delicious glaze.

Classic Pineapple Chicken and Rice

This classic pineapple chicken and rice recipe delivers a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it an ideal comforting meal for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Paper towels
  • Large skillet or Dutch oven

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks in juice, drained (reserve 1/4 cup juice)
  • 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cooking Steps

  • Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and black pepper.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the chicken, and cook until browned on all sides for 5-7 minutes; remove and set aside.
  • Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened for 3-4 minutes, then stir in minced garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper; cook for another 3-5 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender-crisp.
  • Return the chicken to the skillet, then stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring it is well coated with the skillet's contents.
  • Pour in the chicken broth, reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and grated ginger, then stir well to combine.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  • Gently stir in the drained pineapple chunks and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the pineapple through.
  • Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes before serving; garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the ginger. You can also substitute chicken breasts for thighs if preferred.