🍍 Mediterranean Pineapple Chicken & Rice

A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish that blends sweet pineapple with savory herbs, tender chicken, and fragrant rice. This recipe combines classic Mediterranean ingredients like olive oil, garlic, oregano, and fresh herbs with a tropical twist for a balanced, colorful meal. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep!

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🌿 Description

This Mediterranean Pineapple Chicken and Rice features juicy chicken sautéed in extra virgin olive oil, infused with garlic, lemon, oregano, and paprika. Sweet pineapple adds a refreshing contrast, while fluffy rice absorbs all the savory juices. The result is a harmonious mix of sweet, tangy, and herbaceous flavors — light yet satisfying.

Cuisine influence: Mediterranean (Greek-inspired flavors with fresh herbs and olive oil)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks

For the Rice:

• 1 cup basmati or long-grain rice

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• ½ teaspoon turmeric (optional for color)

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Mediterranean Add-ins:

• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint

• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

• ¼ cup diced red bell pepper

• 2 tablespoons sliced olives

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear.

2. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.

3. Add rice and lightly toast for 1–2 minutes.

4. Add broth, turmeric, and salt.

5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.

6. Remove from heat and let rest covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add chicken pieces and cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly browned.

3. Add garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.

4. Cook another 3–4 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

5. Stir in pineapple chunks and cook 2–3 more minutes.

6. Add fresh lemon juice and stir well.

Step 3: Combine & Garnish

1. Spoon rice onto serving plates.

2. Top with pineapple chicken mixture.

3. Sprinkle with parsley, mint, feta, and olives if desired.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve with cucumber-tomato salad.

• Add warm pita bread on the side.

• Pair with tzatziki sauce for extra Mediterranean flavor.

• A light white wine complements it beautifully.

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🥗 Nutrition (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 420–450

• Protein: 35g

• Carbohydrates: 45g

• Fat: 14g

• Fiber: 2–3g

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❓ Q & A

1. Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes! Drain well to avoid excess liquid. Fresh pineapple gives brighter flavor, but canned works fine.

2. Can I make it one-pan?

Absolutely. Remove cooked chicken, cook rice in same pan with broth, then add chicken and pineapple back in during final 5 minutes.

3. What protein substitutes work?

• Shrimp

• Turkey breast

• Chickpeas (vegetarian option)

• Tofu (marinated first)

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store in airtight container in refrigerator up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to keep moist.

5. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure broth is certified gluten-free.

6. How can I make it spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne while cooking chicken.