Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

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Pineapple Chicken and Rice: A Tropical Delight

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a tantalizing dish that brings a burst of tropical flavors right to your dining table. Marrying the sweetness of pineapple with the succulence of chicken and the aromatic hint of thyme, this recipe creates a delightful sweet-savory balance that’s sure to please any palate. Served atop a bed of fluffy rice, each spoonful promises a mix of textures and tastes, enriched by a zesty sauce crafted from Dijon mustard, honey, and the natural juices of pineapple. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a testament to the joy of combining simple ingredients for a spectacular result.

Ingredients

  • 1 and a half pounds boneless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 can (20 oz.) sliced pineapple, juice reserved
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 servings of cooked rice

Directions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts evenly with thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Brown the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the chicken on both sides in vegetable oil.
  3. Prepare the Pineapple: Drain the pineapple slices, making sure to reserve the juice for later use.
  4. Thicken the Sauce: Dissolve cornstarch in 2 ounces of the reserved pineapple juice in a small bowl; set aside for later.
  5. Create the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the remaining pineapple juice with Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic.
  6. Cook with Sauce: Add the mustard-honey mixture to the skillet, reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
  7. Thicken the Sauce: Remove the chicken, and stir the cornstarch mixture once more before adding it to the skillet. Bring it to a boil, stirring continuously for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  8. Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet and flip to coat with the sauce. Arrange pineapple slices around and on top of the chicken, cover, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the pineapple.
  9. Serve: Place the chicken and pineapple on a bed of cooked rice, spooning over any extra sauce.

Nutritional Information

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Calories: 350 kcal per serving
  • Servings: 4

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is not just a meal; it’s an escape to a tropical paradise with every bite. The dish’s vibrant flavors and easy preparation make it a fantastic choice for any day of the week, offering a healthy, delicious, and visually appealing option for dinner. Whether you’re a fan of the sweet and savory combination or looking for something new to try, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the harmony of flavors and the comfort of a home-cooked meal that feels like a getaway.

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