Why Make This Recipe
Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet is a perfect dish for busy weeknights or a quick family meal. It’s simple to prepare, has delicious sweet and savory flavors, and features colorful ingredients that not only taste great but also make for an appealing presentation. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze!
How to Make Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve one-fourth cup juice)
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Add the diced bell pepper and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly tender.
- Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for 2 more minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and ground ginger.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir to coat everything well.
- Simmer uncovered for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and reduces.
- Serve the chicken and pineapple mixture over rice or with rice on the side. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
How to Serve Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet
You can serve Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet directly from the pan for a casual family dinner. For a more formal presentation, serve it on individual plates and garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
How to Store Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container and consume it within 2 months for the best taste.
Tips to Make Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet
- Use Fresh Pineapple: For a fresher taste, fresh pineapple works great instead of canned.
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, like broccoli or snap peas, to boost the nutrition.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can add a bit more honey or pineapple juice.
Variation
You can turn this recipe into a pineapple chicken stir-fry by adding more vegetables and serving it over noodles instead of rice. Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or sweet chili for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and follow the rest of the recipe as is.
Q: Is it possible to use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, you can use brown rice. Just keep in mind that the cooking times may differ, so ensure it’s fully cooked before serving.
Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Add the diced bell pepper and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly tender.
- Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for 2 more minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and ground ginger.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir to coat everything well.
- Simmer uncovered for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and reduces.
- Serve the chicken and pineapple mixture over rice or with rice on the side. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.