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When the sun shines bright and the air is warm, there's nothing quite like the taste of a tropical escape. The dish we are exploring today, Grilled Chicken & Pineapple Rice, perfectly encapsulates the vibrant and refreshing essence of island cuisine. Infused with the sweetness of pineapple and the savory notes of grilled chicken, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors that transports your taste buds straight to a sun-soaked paradise. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or seeking to indulge in a tropical getaway from the comfort of your home, this recipe will satisfy your cravings for something fresh and exciting.

Grilled Chicken & Pineapple Rice

Escape to the tropics with this delicious Grilled Chicken & Pineapple Rice recipe! Perfect for sunny days or summer barbecues, this dish combines juicy grilled chicken marinated in pineapple and soy sauce with fragrant coconut-infused jasmine rice and sweet pineapple chunks. It's a refreshing balance of flavors that transports your taste buds to an island paradise. Impress your guests or simply enjoy a tropical getaway at home with every bite of this vibrant meal!
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Ingredients
  

For the Grilled Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup pineapple juice

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pineapple Rice:

2 cups jasmine rice

1 can (about 14 oz) coconut milk

1 cup water

1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (or canned if preferred)

1 red bell pepper, diced

1/2 cup green onions, chopped

1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)

1 tablespoon lime juice

Salt to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture until well combined. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen; for the best results, marinate for up to 4 hours.

      Prepare the Pineapple Rice:

        Begin by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming sticky. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and a pinch of salt. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a rolling boil.

          Cook the Rice:

            Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow it to steam. Afterward, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.

              Combine the Pineapple Rice Ingredients:

                Quickly stir in the diced pineapple, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, lime juice, and fresh cilantro (if using) into the fluffy rice. Taste and adjust the salt as necessary. Keep the mixture warm until you are ready to serve.

                  Grill the Chicken:

                    Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Carefully remove the marinated chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them on the grill and cook for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, until the chicken develops beautiful grill marks and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it to maintain its juiciness.

                      Serve:

                        To serve, place a generous scoop of the pineapple rice on each plate and top with slices of the grilled chicken. For an appetizing finish, garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges for a burst of freshness.

                          Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

                            - Presentation Tips: To enhance the dish's appeal, consider serving the pineapple rice in individual bowls topped with grilled chicken slices. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a wedge of lime for a pop of color and flavor!