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Aloha Pineapple Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe

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3.8 from 38 reviews

This Aloha Pineapple Chicken Rice Casserole combines tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and savory flavors in a simple, one-dish meal. With a touch of garlic and soy sauce, this vibrant casserole bakes to perfection with fluffy rice and colorful veggies for a quick and delicious tropical-inspired dinner.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Sauce and Base

  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 1-2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • ¾ cup low sodium chicken broth

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups uncooked instant white rice
  • ½ cup diced red onion
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple tidbits in juice, not drained
  • 1 lb. thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenderloins, diced into bite-sized pieces

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and spray an 11×7-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, low sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and chicken broth until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is well combined.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add the uncooked instant white rice, diced red onion, chopped red bell pepper, pineapple tidbits with their juice, and diced chicken pieces to the sauce. Stir everything well to evenly distribute the ingredients and coating.
  4. Bake Covered: Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish and tightly cover it with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes to allow the rice to cook through and chicken to start tenderizing.
  5. Uncover and Stir: After 50 minutes, remove the foil and carefully stir the casserole to mix the ingredients and distribute moisture evenly.
  6. Finish Baking: Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender, with some caramelization on top if possible.
  7. Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle and for easier serving.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a fresh chopped chili to the sauce mixture.
  • Using instant rice reduces baking time and ensures the rice cooks fully within the casserole.
  • Chicken breast tenderloins can be substituted with thighs for a juicier result.
  • Ensure the pineapple is not drained to keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
  • Covering the dish tightly is crucial to trap steam and cook the rice properly.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated; the rice may absorb more liquid, so add a splash of broth when reheating if needed.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Hawaiian