Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make chicken dinner? This Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich, honey-mustard sauce and the sweet tang of pineapple. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that comes together quickly, with minimal ingredients like Dijon mustard, honey, and pineapple. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice for a complete, satisfying dish. Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner or looking to impress guests, this sweet and savory chicken recipe will hit the spot. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy the tropical flavors of this easy pineapple chicken recipe. Perfect for those who love chicken and want a twist on classic flavors!

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 juice for sauce)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 servings of cooked rice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Make the Sauce:
   In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with 2 ounces of the pineapple juice. Set aside. In the same skillet, combine the remaining pineapple juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to develop rich flavor.
3. Thicken the Sauce:
   After the sauce has simmered, add the cornstarch mixture to the pan and stir well. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine Chicken and Pineapple:
   Return the chicken breasts to the pan, coating them with the sauce. Add the pineapple rings to the skillet and heat for a couple of minutes, allowing them to absorb the sauce. Once everything is heated through, serve the chicken and pineapple over a bed of cooked rice.

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Tips:

• For Juicy Chicken: Be sure not to overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Adjust the Sauce: If you like a sweeter sauce, add more honey, or balance it with a bit of vinegar if you prefer a tangier flavor.
• Serve with Extra Pineapple: If you enjoy extra pineapple flavor, feel free to add additional pineapple chunks to the dish.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Chicken Thighs: Substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cornstarch alternative for thickening the sauce if necessary.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option, ensuring to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

FAQs:

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used instead of canned. Just make sure to reserve some pineapple juice by blending or juicing the pineapple to create a similar consistency.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it before adding to the chicken.

How can I make the sauce spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce mixture.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice with steamed vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers for a complete meal.
• For a fresh side, try a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the sweetness of the pineapple sauce.
• You can also serve this dish with quinoa or couscous for a different texture alongside the rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, with tender chicken breasts smothered in a tangy, honey-mustard sauce, complemented by juicy pineapple. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pan dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can prepare a meal that tastes like a tropical getaway, making it ideal for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Plus, it pairs perfectly with rice for a complete and hearty dish everyone will love!