why make this recipe
Airfryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a quick and easy meal that packs a punch of flavor. It combines juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and fluffy rice for a delightful dish. The use of an air fryer makes it healthier and reduces cooking time, saving you time in the kitchen without sacrificing taste.
how to make Airfryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup rice (jasmine or basmati)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the diced chicken in the marinade and let it sit for 15 minutes.
- In the air fryer basket, add the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, and rice. Pour the chicken broth over the top.
- Cook in the air fryer for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chicken is cooked and the rice is tender.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
how to serve Airfryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Serve the Airfryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice warm, straight from the air fryer. You can plate it nicely and add extra green onions on top for a fresh look. This dish is perfect by itself or paired with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
how to store Airfryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice
To store Airfryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It can last for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just remember to reheat thoroughly before serving.
tips to make Airfryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice
- Use fresh pineapple for a brighter flavor, but canned options work well too.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste; adding some chili flakes can give it a nice kick.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking.
variation
You can switch up the protein by using shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also try adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for an extra nutritional boost.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine or basmati?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts as brown rice takes longer to cook.
What can I use if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use water or vegetable broth as a substitute. It will change the flavor slightly, but it will still be tasty.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the ingredients a day in advance. Just refrigerate and combine them when you’re ready to cook.
Airfryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts, diced Use boneless chicken breasts for easy cooking.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned) Fresh pineapple enhances the flavor.
- 1 cup rice (jasmine or basmati) Choose according to preference.
- 2 cups chicken broth Provides flavor and moisture.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce Adjust for lower sodium options.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For marinating the chicken.
- 1 clove garlic, minced Adds depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated Fresh ginger is recommended.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish Chopped for serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the diced chicken in the marinade and let it sit for 15 minutes.
Cooking
- In the air fryer basket, add the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, and rice. Pour the chicken broth over the top.
- Cook in the air fryer for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chicken is cooked and the rice is tender.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.