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This delightful fusion dish combines tender chicken and sweet pineapple with aromatic jasmine rice, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Enhanced with ginger, soy sauce, and colorful vegetables, this one-skillet meal delivers tropical flavors in a quick weeknight dinner format. I discovered this recipe while looking for ways to elevate simple chicken and rice with bright, fresh flavors.
Last week, I served this to guests who couldn't believe how the pineapple transformed ordinary chicken and rice into something special. The combination of fresh and savory flavors creates an exciting but comforting meal.
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips
- Chicken Breast - Cut into even cubes for consistent cooking
- Fresh Pineapple - Ripe but firm for best caramelization
- Jasmine Rice - Fragrant variety works best
- Red Bell Pepper - Adds color and sweetness
- Fresh Ginger - Essential for authentic flavor
The magic happens when the pineapple caramelizes slightly, creating a natural glaze that coats the chicken and vegetables.
Detailed Cooking Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- In same pan, cook onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Step 3: Add Pineapple
- Stir in pineapple cubes, cooking 2 minutes until slightly caramelized.
- Step 4: Cook Rice
- Add rice, broth, soy sauce, and ginger. Bring to boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer 18-20 minutes.
- Step 5: Combine
- Return chicken to pan, stirring to combine and heat through.
- Step 6: Rest
- Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
- Step 7: Garnish
- Top with green onions and sesame seeds.
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Beyond Basic Balance
The key to this dish lies in its perfect balance of flavors. The sweetness of pineapple doesn't overwhelm but rather enhances the savory chicken and aromatic rice. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious dish that's more than the sum of its parts.
Texture Symphony
While the flavors blend beautifully, each ingredient maintains its distinct texture. The chicken stays tender, the pineapple provides juicy bites, and the vegetables retain just enough crunch. The rice absorbs all these flavors while maintaining its individual grain structure.
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Nutritional Notes
At just 350 calories per serving, this dish provides a complete meal with protein, complex carbohydrates, and essential vitamins. The pineapple adds not just flavor but vitamin C and antioxidants, while the chicken provides lean protein for sustained energy.
Chef's Essential Tips
- Cut ingredients uniformly for even cooking
- Use fresh ginger rather than powdered
- Don't overcook the pineapple
- Let rice rest before serving
- Toast sesame seeds for enhanced flavor
This pineapple chicken and rice has become my reliable solution for elevating weeknight dinners. The combination of familiar ingredients with tropical flair creates an exciting but approachable meal.
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Final Tips
- Double recipe for meal prep
- Garnish just before serving
- Use leftovers in lunch bowls
- Consider adding cashews for crunch
- Serve with extra soy sauce on side
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use canned pineapple?
- Yes, drain well before using.
- → Can I use brown rice?
- Yes, but increase cooking time and liquid accordingly.
- → Can I make this ahead?
- Yes, keeps well in refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- → What can I substitute for jasmine rice?
- Any long-grain white rice works well.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
- Yes, add firm vegetables with onions, soft ones near end.