Looking for a vibrant and delicious meal that will tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than this Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe. With succulent chicken, sweet pineapple, and a tangy sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece.
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, reserve the juice for the sauce
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup honey
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 servings of cooked rice
Instructions:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This will infuse the chicken with a delightful herbaceous flavor.
In a skillet over medium heat, add the vegetable oil and brown the seasoned chicken breasts until they are golden on both sides. This step helps to lock in the juices and create a flavorful outer crust.
While the chicken is cooking, drain the pineapple slices, but be sure to reserve the juice for later use. This juice will serve as the base for our delicious sauce.
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with 2 ounces of the reserved pineapple juice, creating a slurry. This will help to thicken the sauce and give it a silky texture.
In another bowl, mix together the remaining pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. This combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors will elevate the dish to new heights.
Pour the Dijon mixture into the skillet with the browned chicken, reduce the heat, and cover the skillet. Allow the chicken to simmer in the flavorful sauce for about 15 minutes, ensuring it becomes tender and infused with all the delicious flavors.
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Then, stir in the cornstarch mixture, bringing the sauce to a gentle boil. Continue stirring for about 2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Reduce the heat and return the chicken to the skillet, flipping it to ensure it’s fully coated in the luscious sauce. Add the pineapple slices to the skillet, arranging them around and on top of the chicken. Cover the skillet and allow the pineapple to heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Serve the pineapple chicken over a bed of cooked rice, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Serving Tips:
Presentation is key: Arrange the pineapple slices and chicken on a platter over a bed of fluffy rice for an eye-catching presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley over the dish to add a pop of color and freshness.
Add some heat: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, drizzle the finished dish with a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
Pair with complementary sides: Serve alongside steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or snap peas, to add a nutritional boost to the meal.
Serve with a smile: The aroma of this delectable dish is sure to whet everyone’s appetite, so be prepared to receive compliments on your culinary skills!
Storage Tips:
Store leftovers properly: Place any leftover pineapple chicken and rice in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to keep it fresh.
Consume within a few days: Enjoy leftover pineapple chicken within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.
Reheat with care: To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, being careful not to overcook the chicken.
Refresh before serving: If the rice becomes dry upon reheating, sprinkle it with a splash of water or broth to revive its moisture before serving.
Freeze for later: If you have more leftovers than you can consume within a few days, consider freezing individual portions for a quick and convenient meal option later on. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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FAQS
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can be substituted for canned in this recipe. Simply peel, core, and slice the fresh pineapple into rings or chunks to use in place of the canned slices. Just ensure the pineapple is ripe for the best flavor.
Is there a substitute for Dijon mustard if I don’t have it on hand?
While Dijon mustard adds a unique flavor to the dish, you can substitute it with yellow mustard or grainy mustard if needed. The flavor profile may vary slightly, but it will still complement the dish well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time for meal prep purposes?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep! You can cook the Pineapple Chicken and Rice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat portions as needed for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.
Can I use a different type of rice other than white rice?
Absolutely! While white rice is commonly used in this recipe for its neutral flavor and fluffy texture, you can substitute it with brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa for added nutritional benefits and flavor variation. Adjust cooking times and liquid ratios according to the type of rice used.
Conclusion:
With its combination of tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and flavorful sauce, this Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is a surefire winner for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress. So why wait? Head to the kitchen and whip up this irresistible meal today!
📖 Recipe:
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Pineapple Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Indulge in a culinary adventure with this tantalizing Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe. Perfectly seasoned chicken bathed in a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce, served over fluffy rice – it’s a feast for the senses! Whether you’re a novice chef or a seasoned cook, this dish is sure to impress.
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, reserve the juice for the sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup honey
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 servings of cooked rice
Instructions
- Season chicken with thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Brown chicken in vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Drain pineapple slices, reserving juice.
- Combine cornstarch with 2 oz. pineapple juice; set aside.
- Mix remaining pineapple juice with mustard, honey, and garlic.
- Add mustard mixture to pan, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove chicken; stir in cornstarch mixture, bring to a boil.
- Return chicken to pan, add pineapple slices, cover for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve over rice.
Notes
Adjust sweetness with honey to taste preference.
For a thicker sauce, increase cornstarch amount slightly.
Customize with additional vegetables like bell peppers or snow peas for added texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
