Pineapple Chicken Rice Cheese (Printer View)

Tender chicken, juicy pineapple, fluffy rice, and melted cheese baked to perfection.

# What you'll need:

→ Protein

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed (about 1 lb)

→ Vegetables & Fruit

02 - 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned and drained
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Rice

06 - 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
07 - 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

→ Dairy

08 - 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
09 - 1/2 cup sour cream

→ Sauces & Seasonings

10 - 2 tbsp olive oil
11 - 1 tsp salt
12 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
13 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
14 - 1/2 tsp dried thyme

→ Garnish

15 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, optional

# Method:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish and set aside.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until lightly browned.
03 - Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until vegetables soften.
04 - Transfer sautéed chicken and vegetables to a large mixing bowl. Add uncooked rice, pineapple chunks, chicken broth, and sour cream. Mix thoroughly.
05 - Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading evenly.
06 - Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
07 - Remove foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return to oven uncovered and bake for 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly with tender rice.
08 - Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • One-dish wonder that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor
  • Perfect balance of sweet pineapple and savory chicken with melted cheese
  • Naturally gluten-free and easily customizable to your taste preferences
  • Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully for leftovers
  • Simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive for entertaining
02 -
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally if you're uncertain about doneness
  • Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set properly
  • Fresh pineapple provides the best texture, but well-drained canned pineapple works perfectly in a pinch
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
  • Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven
  • For make-ahead convenience, assemble the casserole up to step 5, refrigerate, and bake when ready (add 5-10 minutes to baking time if starting cold)
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