Pineapple chicken and rice is a delightful dish that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple with tender chicken and the comforting staple of rice. This recipe brings a touch of tropical flair to the dinner table, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The dish is not only flavorful but also presents a visually appealing meal that's sure to impress.
Ingredients
- ½ pound boneless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 can (20 oz.) sliced pineapple, juice reserved
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 servings of cooked rice
Preparation
Step 1:
Season the chicken breasts evenly with dried thyme, salt, and pepper to infuse them with flavor.
Step 2:
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook until they are browned on both sides and almost cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes per side.
Step 3:
While the chicken is cooking, drain the pineapple slices, ensuring you reserve the juice for later use in the sauce.
Step 4:
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 ounces of the reserved pineapple juice to create a slurry. Set this mixture aside for later use in thickening the sauce.
Step 5:
In another bowl, combine the remaining pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic to create the sauce mixture.
Step 6:
Once the chicken is browned, add the Dijon mustard mixture to the skillet with the chicken. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Step 7:
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This will make room to thicken the sauce.
Step 8:
Stir the cornstarch mixture once more to ensure it is well combined, then add it to the skillet. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the sauce to a boil, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
Step 9:
Reduce the heat to low, return the chicken to the skillet, and flip each piece to coat it thoroughly in the thickened sauce.
Step 10:
Arrange the pineapple slices around and on top of the chicken in the skillet. Cover the skillet and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the pineapple is heated through.
Step 11:
Serve the chicken and pineapple over a bed of freshly cooked rice, spooning extra sauce from the skillet over the top.
COOKING Note
- Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly before adding the sauce to avoid any potential for undercooked poultry.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, to complete the meal.
Tips
- For an added kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can adjust the amount of cornstarch to your liking.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 30 minutes
Total Time:
- 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 500-600 per serving (including rice)
- Protein: Approx. 30g per serving
- Sodium: Approx. 800mg per serving
Conclusion
Pineapple chicken and rice is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings a touch of the tropics to your dinner table. With its sweet and savory sauce, tender chicken, and hearty rice, it's a well-rounded meal that's perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a satisfying and enjoyable experience for everyone.
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