Chicken breast with pineapple and ginger

Chicken breast with pineapple and ginger – an explosion of flavors in every bite

Who doesn't love a dish that combines the delicate taste of chicken with the sweetness of pineapple and the distinct aroma of ginger? This recipe for chicken breast with pineapple and ginger is not only a delicious option but also an excellent choice for those looking for a lunch or dinner with Asian notes, full of flavor. It is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for a weekend evening or to impress guests at a special dinner.

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 300 g boneless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons oil (preferably peanut oil or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated or dried ginger (about 5 g)
- 1 small zucchini
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow)
- 2-3 green onions or 1 small leek
- 1 can of pineapple chunks (about 400 g)
- 200 g rice (preferably wild rice or basmati)

For the marinade:

- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 glass of white wine
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar (preferably brown sugar)

Preparation:

1. Marinating the chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breast into cubes of about 2-3 cm. In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, white wine, oil, salt, and sugar. Add the chicken cubes and mix well, ensuring each piece of meat is coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 30-60 minutes. This step will add depth of flavor to your chicken.

2. Preparing the rice: While the chicken is marinating, you can prepare the rice. Cook the rice according to the package instructions, adding a pinch of salt to the water. Wild rice adds a unique flavor and pleasant texture, but you can use any type of rice you prefer.

3. Cooking the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and drain it well. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the chicken cubes and mix to coat them evenly. In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and fry until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm.

4. Preparing the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the grated ginger, diced zucchini, and bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 3-4 minutes or until they become slightly tender but still crunchy. These vegetables not only add vibrant color to the dish but also contribute essential nutrients.

5. Adding the pineapple: Open the can of pineapple and drain the juice, saving it for later. Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet and pour the pineapple juice over the vegetables. Mix everything well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, so the flavors combine and the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Finishing the dish: Add the fried chicken back to the skillet and mix everything well to combine the ingredients. Let it simmer together for another 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce. Finally, sprinkle chopped green onions or leek for an extra touch of freshness.

7. Serving: Serve the chicken breast with pineapple and ginger alongside the cooked rice. You can garnish the plate with a few fresh coriander leaves for an attractive appearance and an additional hint of flavor.

Practical tips:

- Choosing ingredients: Always use fresh ingredients for the best results. Fresh ginger has a more intense flavor than dried, and fresh pineapple can add natural sweetness and a crunchy texture.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or peas, for extra color and nutrients. Additionally, you can replace the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood option.
- Advance preparation: The chicken can be marinated a day in advance, saving time on the day of preparation. You can also prepare the rice ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

Nutritional benefits:

This recipe offers an excellent combination of protein from the chicken breast and vitamins from the vegetables, making it a healthy choice for a balanced meal. Pineapple is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, while ginger has anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen chicken? It is recommended to use fresh chicken, but if you have frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.
- What can I use instead of soy sauce? For a soy-free option, you can use coconut aminos or teriyaki sauce, but you will need to adjust the amount of salt.
- How can I make the recipe spicier? If you enjoy spicy food, add a few slices of red chili pepper or chili sauce to the marinade.

This chicken breast with pineapple and ginger recipe is definitely one that will bring a smile to anyone who tastes it. The flavors blend perfectly, and the dish is so easy to make that anyone can become a chef in their own kitchen. Try this recipe today and enjoy every bite!