Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Ingredients:
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/4 cup pineapple juice (reserved from the canned pineapple)
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
1 small red bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce (for sauce)
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, and 1/4 cup pineapple juice. Stir to coat the chicken and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour for more flavor).
2. Cook the Rice:
In a medium saucepan, add the rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Set aside and keep warm.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté Vegetables and Pineapple:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the drained pineapple chunks and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, until the pineapple is slightly caramelized.
5. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the sauce into the skillet with the vegetables and pineapple.
6. Combine Chicken and Rice:
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat everything in the sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
Serve the chicken mixture over the cooked rice.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve and enjoy!
This Pineapple Chicken and Rice is