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Air Fryer Pineapple Chicken and Rice

This dish combines juicy pineapple chunks with crispy air-fried chicken served over tender rice. The meal features a balance of sweet and savory flavors, with textures ranging from crunchy chicken to soft rice and caramelized pineapple. It is cooked primarily using an air fryer, making it a quick and flavorful one-pan-style meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Tropical
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked rice preferably jasmine or basmati
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks fresh or canned, drained
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce for marinade and flavoring
  • 1 tbsp honey optional for extra sweetness
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika optional, adds color and smoky flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for coating chicken

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Cooking brush or spray

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces, coating them evenly, and let marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
    2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika, to taste salt and pepper, 1 tbsp olive oil
  2. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, toss the marinated chicken in a tablespoon of olive oil to help it crisp up in the air fryer.
    1 tbsp olive oil
  3. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is golden and cooked through, and has a crispy exterior.
  4. While the chicken cooks, gently warm the pineapple chunks in a small pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until slightly caramelized and fragrant. This enhances their sweetness and adds a touch of caramel color.
    1 cup pineapple chunks
  5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork to loosen the grains and set aside.
    2 cups cooked rice
  6. Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a plate and drizzle with a little extra soy sauce or lime juice if desired for added flavor. Toss in the cooked pineapple chunks for a harmonious mix of flavors.
    1 cup pineapple chunks
  7. Serve the crispy chicken and pineapple mixture over the warm rice, ensuring each serving gets plenty of both for a balanced bite of sweetness and savory goodness.
    2 cups cooked rice, 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, 1 cup pineapple chunks

Notes

Adjust seasoning to your taste. For extra crunch, add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving.