Description
This Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is a deliciously sweet and savory stir-fry that combines tender chicken breast with juicy pineapple chunks, colorful bell peppers, and a flavorful homemade sauce. Quick and easy to prepare on the stovetop, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner with an Asian-inspired flair.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks (drained if canned)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Base
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice
Optional Garnish
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare and Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 6 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Add Vegetables and Pineapple: Stir in the diced red bell pepper, pineapple chunks, and minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender and the pineapple is warmed through.
- Make and Add Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour this sauce into the skillet and bring it to a simmer, coating the chicken and vegetables evenly.
- Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken and veggies.
- Combine with Rice: Add the cooked jasmine rice to the skillet and stir well until all ingredients are combined and heated through evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use brown rice or cauliflower rice as a healthier alternative.
- Swap red bell pepper with broccoli or snap peas for different vegetable options.
- Marinate the chicken in the sauce mixture for 30 minutes before cooking for enhanced flavor.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your taste.
