Description
This cozy and bright Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish combines caramelized pineapple with spices for a delicious comfort meal that’s perfect for weeknights and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Optional: toasted cashews or chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pat chicken pieces dry and toss with smoked paprika, ground ginger, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add onion and red bell pepper; cook 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
- In the baking dish, add rinsed rice, sautéed aromatics, pineapple chunks, pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Nestle seasoned chicken into the rice mixture, leaving a little space between pieces.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until rice is tender and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest 5 minutes, then fluff rice gently with a fork. Sprinkle sliced green onions and optional toasted cashews or cilantro.
Notes
Rinse the rice to remove excess starch, use warm broth for better texture, and avoid lifting the foil early to trap steam. Adjust sweetness based on the sweetness of pineapple used.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American