Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Welcome to a delightful culinary journey where tropical sweetness meets savory goodness! Our Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is a perfect blend of tender chicken cooked in a luscious pineapple honey Dijon sauce, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. This dish is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish is a must-try for several reasons. The combination of sweet pineapple and tangy Dijon mustard creates a unique and mouth-watering sauce that perfectly complements the juicy chicken. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. The ingredients are simple and likely already in your pantry, making this recipe convenient and budget-friendly.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 1 and a half pounds boneless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 can (20 oz.) sliced pineapple, juice reserved
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 servings of cooked rice

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the chicken in vegetable oil until golden.
3. Drain the pineapple slices, reserving the juice for the sauce.
4. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 oz. of the reserved pineapple juice and set aside.
5. In another bowl, combine the remaining pineapple juice with Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic.
6. Add the Dijon mixture to the skillet, reduce the heat, and cover the pan.
7. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
8. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
9. Stir the cornstarch mixture well and add it to the pan, bringing it to a boil.
10. Continue to stir for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
11. Lower the heat and return the chicken to the pan, ensuring it’s well-coated with the sauce.
12. Place the pineapple slices over and around the chicken, cover the pan, and let it heat through for 2-3 minutes.
13. Serve the chicken and sauce over the cooked rice.

Tips for Success

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken with the thyme, salt, and pepper for a few hours before cooking.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a bit more pineapple juice to reach your desired consistency.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• You can also try substituting the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different take on this dish.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This recipe is rich in protein and provides a good balance of carbohydrates and fats, making it a wholesome meal option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Yes, fresh pineapple can be used, but you may need to adjust the sweetness of the sauce.

Can I prepare this dish in advance? Absolutely! You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Cook the chicken fresh before serving for the best texture.

How long will leftovers last? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe! It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so leave a comment below and share your experience. Happy cooking!