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Sweet and Savoury Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

Pineapple is a versatile fruit that can elevate a dish with its tropical sweetness and tangy flavour. When paired with tender chicken and fluffy rice, it creates an irresistible meal that appeals to both the palate and the eye. In this article, we present a delightful Sweet and Savoury Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe that will transport your taste buds to a sunny paradise.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice:

• 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 3 spring onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• Optional: Chopped fresh coriander for garnish

Method

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced ginger, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken thighs in a zip-lock bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure that the chicken is well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight for maximum flavour.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

While the chicken marinates, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming too sticky during cooking.

In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until they soften and the onion becomes translucent—about 5 minutes. Stir in the rinsed rice, allowing it to toast slightly for an additional minute. Then, add the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for approximately 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

While the rice is cooking, remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Using a grill pan or a frying pan over medium-high heat, cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You can also bake the chicken in the oven at 200°C (180°C fan) for approximately 20-25 minutes. Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Create the Pineapple Sauce

In the same pan used for cooking the chicken, add the diced pineapple and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to caramelise. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Pour this into the pan along with the rice vinegar, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Be sure to scrape up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the pan for added flavour.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once everything is ready, fluff the cooked rice with a fork and mix in the pineapple sauce until well combined. Serve the pineapple rice on a plate, topping it with sliced chicken and a sprinkle of fresh spring onions and coriander, if using.

Conclusion

This Sweet and Savoury Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish is not just a meal, but a delightful experience filled with vibrant flavours and textures. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, it offers an enjoyable way to introduce a tropical twist to your culinary repertoire—making it a dish everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and relish this exotic taste from the comfort of your home!

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