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- 2 chicken breasts, diced - 1 cup long-grain white rice - 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice, drained and juice reserved - 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced - 1 medium onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup chicken broth - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon ginger, grated - Salt and pepper to taste - Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish When measuring ingredients, use a dry measuring cup for rice. Use a liquid measuring cup for broth and juice. This helps you get the right amount for the best flavor. You can swap chicken for tofu for a vegetarian option. Use brown rice for a healthier twist, but remember it takes longer to cook. If you want a sweeter touch, add mango chunks or coconut. These swaps keep the dish fresh and fun! For the full recipe, check out the Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Skillet. Cooking the Chicken First, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken. Season it with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken turns golden and is fully cooked, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is key for building flavor. Sautéing the Vegetables Once the chicken is cooked, add the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want the veggies to soften but not lose their crunch. The garlic will add a lovely aroma. Mixing in Rice and Pineapple Next, stir in the rice and grated ginger. Then, add the drained pineapple chunks along with the reserved juice. This step adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the chicken. Make sure to mix everything well. Adding Broth and Sauce Now, pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil. This liquid will help cook the rice and create a rich flavor. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low. Simmering the Dish Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb most of the liquid. Keep an eye on it to prevent it from sticking. Fluffing the Rice After simmering, remove the skillet from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes before uncovering. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. This makes the dish light and airy, ready for serving. For the full recipe, check out the details above! - Avoiding Sticky Rice To keep rice fluffy, rinse it before cooking. Rinsing removes extra starch. Use a fine mesh strainer and run cold water over the rice until it runs clear. This step helps the rice stay separate. - Adjusting Liquid Ratios For long-grain rice, the standard ratio is 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of liquid. Since we add pineapple juice and broth, adjust the total liquid. Use 1 cup of pineapple juice and 1 cup of broth. This gives great flavor while ensuring the rice cooks well. - Adding Spices and Herbs Spice it up! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or smoked paprika for a smoky taste. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil add freshness. You can mix these in while cooking for a nice burst of flavor. - Incorporating Additional Vegetables Want more veggies? Try adding peas, corn, or carrots. You can toss them in with the chicken and cook until tender. This not only boosts nutrition but also makes the dish colorful and appealing. - Garnishing Ideas Make it pretty! Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. These add brightness and crunch. You can also sprinkle some lime juice for a zesty touch. - Pairing with Side Dishes Serve with a simple side salad or steamed broccoli. These sides complement the meal without overpowering it. You can also enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For the full recipe, check out the Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Skillet! {{image_2}} Adding mango or coconut brings a fresh twist to this dish. You can dice ripe mango and mix it in during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds sweetness and a vibrant color. If you prefer coconut, use coconut milk instead of chicken broth. This change adds creaminess and a lovely tropical flavor. Using different proteins can also enhance the meal. Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. For shrimp, cook them just until pink. For tofu, use firm tofu and sauté until golden. Both options create a delightful taste. If you need to make it gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce for tamari. This small change keeps the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Always double-check labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free. For vegetarian alternatives, replace the chicken with chickpeas or lentils. These options add protein and texture. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a full vegetarian flavor. For a Thai-inspired pineapple chicken, add Thai basil and a splash of lime juice. This makes the flavors pop and gives a fresh taste. You can also add some crushed red pepper for heat. If you want to create a Hawaiian-style dish, consider adding diced ham or bacon. This savory addition pairs well with the sweetness of the pineapple. Use it as a topping or mix it into the skillet for extra flavor. Explore these variations to fit your tastes and dietary needs. Each twist makes the pineapple chicken and rice skillet a fun and exciting meal. You can find the full recipe above for all the details! To keep your Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet fresh, follow these tips: - Refrigeration Guidelines: Once the dish cools down, store it in an airtight container. It stays good for up to three days in the fridge. - Freezing Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the dish. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It lasts for about three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, here’s how to reheat it well: - Best Practices for Microwave Heating: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it loosely with a lid or paper towel. Heat for about two minutes, stirring halfway through. - Stovetop Reheating Techniques: Heat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. Stir for about five to seven minutes until heated through. Knowing how long your dish lasts is key: - How Long It Lasts in Fridge: In the fridge, your Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet is best within three days. - Timeframe for Freezing: When frozen, it can last up to three months. Just remember to label the container with the date! Enjoy this flavorful dish again and again with these simple storage and reheating tips! For the full recipe, check out the Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Skillet section above. Yes, you can use brown rice. It adds a nutty flavor and is healthier. Just remember, brown rice takes longer to cook. You will need about 45-50 minutes total cook time instead of 20 minutes. Adjust the liquid as well. For every cup of brown rice, you might need 2 cups of broth. This dish is not spicy. It has a mild flavor from the chicken and pineapple. The ginger gives it a bit of warmth but not heat. If you want some spice, add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce. Just a pinch can make a big difference. This dish is great on its own, but you can add more sides. A fresh salad pairs well, offering a crisp bite. You might also enjoy steamed broccoli or snap peas for color and crunch. Try serving it with crispy spring rolls for a fun twist. Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Cook the dish and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about three days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving. Just make sure it’s heated all the way through. Yes, you can create a vegan version easily. Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The rest of the ingredients remain the same. This keeps the dish flavorful and hearty. Enjoy this vegan twist without losing the tasty essence of the original dish. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. This blog post covers every step to create a tasty Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet. You learned about the key ingredients, cooking methods, and variations to try. Using simple tips, you can make the dish perfect each time. Remember, feel free to add your own twist with spices or veggies. Enjoy creating this meal that brings tropical flavors to your table. Whether you keep it classic or make it unique, you’ll love the results. Happy cooking!

Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet

Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this easy and delicious Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Skillet recipe! Bursting with flavors from tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and colorful veggies, this one-pan meal is a tropical delight that’s perfect for any night. Discover how to whip up this mouthwatering dish in just 40 minutes and impress your family with your culinary skills.
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Ingredients
  

2 chicken breasts, diced

1 cup long-grain white rice

1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice, drained and juice reserved

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup chicken broth

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon ginger, grated

Salt and pepper to taste

Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.

    Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

      Stir in the rice, grated ginger, pineapple chunks, and reserved pineapple juice. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

        Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, and bring the mixture to a boil.

          Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.

            Remove the skillet from the heat, uncover, and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork.

              Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet in bowls, garnished with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. Enjoy!