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Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice for a Sweet Dinner Escape

Enjoy a delightful Pineapple Chicken and Rice, combining tender chicken and juicy pineapple for a quick and satisfying one-pot meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course One-Pot Meals
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Instant Pot

Ingredients
  

For the Base

  • 1 cup rice Use jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant touch.
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks Fresh pineapple gives a brighter flavor, but canned works well too!
  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced Chicken thighs can also add rich moisture and flavor.

For the Seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce A splash of low-sodium soy sauce keeps it flavorful without the extra salt.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Olive oil helps achieve that perfect golden chicken exterior.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder This adds depth; swap with fresh onions if you prefer.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Adjust according to your taste preference.

For the Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch This thickens the sauce beautifully.
  • 1 tablespoon water Mix with cornstarch for a smooth texture when thickening the sauce.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pineapple Chicken and Rice

  • Begin by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode and adding one tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the diced chicken breast. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and no longer pink in the center.
  • Next, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Stir everything together for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb these aromatic flavors.
  • Now, add the cup of rice and one cup of pineapple chunks into the pot. Gently stir everything together, ensuring the rice and pineapple are well coated with the flavorful chicken mixture.
  • Pour in the tablespoon of soy sauce along with 1½ cups of water. Stir to combine all ingredients once more.
  • Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
  • After the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes. Then, carefully turn the valve to manually release any remaining pressure.
  • In a small bowl, mix the tablespoon of cornstarch with one tablespoon of water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the pot and turn the Instant Pot back to sauté mode.
  • Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring gently, until the sauce thickens beautifully, coating all the ingredients.
  • Your Pineapple Chicken and Rice is now ready to be served! Scoop the warm, flavorful mixture onto plates or bowls.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg
Keyword dinner, Instant Pot, One-Pot Meal, Pineapple Chicken, quick meal, rice
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