The combination of pineapple and chicken is a popular pairing in many cuisines, offering a tropical twist to everyday meals. Pineapple not only adds a burst of sweetness but also helps to tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful. The addition of honey and Dijon mustard enhances the dish with a subtle heat and tanginess, while garlic provides depth and complexity. Served over a bed of fluffy rice, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe for Pineapple Chicken and Rice, along with several variations and substitutions to inspire your culinary creativity.
Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds boneless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 can (20 oz) sliced pineapple, reserve the juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
¼ cup Dijon mustard
¼ cup honey
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 servings of cooked rice
Instructions
Season the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with thyme, salt, and pepper.
Brown the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
Prepare Pineapple:
Drain the pineapple slices, reserving the juice. Set the pineapple slices aside.
Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 oz of the reserved pineapple juice until smooth. In another bowl, combine the remaining pineapple juice with Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic.
Simmer the Chicken:
Add the Dijon mixture to the skillet with the chicken. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
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Thicken the Sauce:
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the sauce in the skillet. Increase the heat to medium and bring to a boil, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
Combine and Heat Through:
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it thoroughly with the sauce. Add the pineapple slices on top of and around the chicken. Cover and heat for another 2-3 minutes until the pineapple is warmed through.
Serve:
Serve the chicken and pineapple slices over cooked rice. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the skillet over the top.
Variations
Spicy Pineapple Chicken:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Dijon mixture for a spicy kick.
Vegetable Pineapple Chicken:
Incorporate vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli into the skillet when simmering the chicken for added color and nutrition.
Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry:
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces before cooking and add sliced vegetables. Serve over rice or noodles.
Coconut Pineapple Chicken:
Replace half of the pineapple juice with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical twist.
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Option:
Ensure that the cornstarch and Dijon mustard used are gluten-free.
Sugar-Free Version:
Substitute honey with a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
Dairy-Free Option:
This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but ensure the vegetable oil used is free of any dairy contamination.
Vegan Adaptation:
Replace the chicken with tofu or a plant-based chicken alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Conclusion
Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a deliciously balanced dish that combines savory and sweet flavors for a truly satisfying meal. The tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and flavorful sauce create a harmony that is both comforting and refreshing. This recipe is easy to prepare and adaptable, making it a great choice for any meal occasion. Explore the variations and substitutions to tailor the dish to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy the burst of tropical flavors and the simplicity of this delightful recipe.
