Introduction
Dive into the heart of the tropics with this Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish, a vibrant and flavorsome meal that captures the essence of summer in every bite. The juicy sweetness of pineapple pairs exquisitely with succulent chicken, all seasoned with aromatic thyme and enveloped in a tangy sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory. Served atop a bed of fluffy rice, this dish not only pleases the palate but also brings a burst of color and joy to your dining table. Ideal for a wholesome family dinner or a special weekend treat, this recipe is a delightful way to bring the flavors of the tropics right into your home.
Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 and a half pounds of 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
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4 | Calories: 350 kcal per serving
- Season the Chicken:
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken:
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat the vegetable oil and brown the seasoned chicken on both sides.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Drain the pineapple slices, reserving the juice. Mix cornstarch with 2 oz. of the reserved pineapple juice in a small bowl and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic.
- Simmer the Chicken:
- Add the Dijon mustard mixture to the skillet with the chicken. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm. Stir the cornstarch mixture once again, then add it to the skillet. Bring the sauce to a boil, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 2 minutes.
- Final Touches:
- Reduce the heat, return the chicken to the skillet, and turn to coat in the sauce. Arrange the pineapple slices around and on top of the chicken. Cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pineapple to warm through.
Serve the Pineapple Chicken over a bed of cooked rice, ensuring each plate gets an even mix of chicken, pineapple, and the deliciously rich sauce. This Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that promises to transport you to a tropical paradise with every mouthful. Enjoy the sweet and savory symphony that makes this dish a surefire way to brighten any mealtime.