Island Chicken and Rice

Island Chicken and Rice Recipe - Flavorful and Exotic Dish

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Island Chicken and Rice is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy sauce, served over fluffy rice. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

Island Chicken and Rice is a popular dish that is inspired by the flavors of the Caribbean. The combination of chicken, fruit, and rice is a classic one that has been enjoyed for generations. This dish is a great way to bring a taste of the tropics to your dinner table.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5 inch pieces
salt
ground black pepper
2 tbsp cornstarch, divided
2 tbsp vegetable oil
0.5 cup coarsely chopped onion
1 x 16 oz (454 g) can sliced peaches in juice (reserve juice)
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp vinegar
1 medium green pepper, cut into 1 inch strips
1 medium tomato, coarsely chopped
3 cups hot cooked rice
0.25 cup toasted slivered almonds

How to prepare

Sprinkle the chicken with salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp of cornstarch.
Cook the chicken and onion in oil in a large skillet until the chicken is lightly browned.
Blend the reserved juice, soy sauce, vinegar, and the remaining 1 tbsp of cornstarch; add it to the chicken.
Cook, stirring, until the mixture becomes clear and thickened.
Add the peaches, green pepper, and tomato. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the green pepper is tender-crisp.
Serve the mixture over beds of fluffy rice. Sprinkle with almonds.

Variations

Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist on the dish.
Add pineapple or mango chunks for a sweeter flavor profile.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces so that they cook evenly.

- Be sure to brown the chicken before adding the sauce to give it a nice caramelized flavor.

- Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite vegetables or fruits.

- Serve the dish with a side of plantains or a tropical salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Island Chicken and Rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced meal. Pair it with a glass of tropical fruit juice or a crisp white wine for a refreshing accompaniment.

Cooking Techniques

Make sure to cook the chicken until it is no longer pink in the center to ensure it is fully cooked.

- Stir the sauce constantly to prevent lumps from forming and to ensure it thickens properly.

- Simmer the dish gently to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken breasts for a more flavorful dish.

- Substitute apple cider vinegar for the white vinegar for a slightly sweeter taste.

- Use cashews or peanuts instead of almonds for a different nutty flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights. Simply store the components separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Island Chicken and Rice in a large serving bowl or on individual plates, garnished with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle extra toasted almonds on top for added crunch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Island Chicken and Rice with a side of coconut rice or fried plantains for a complete Caribbean-inspired meal. Serve it with a tropical fruit salsa or a side of black beans for a delicious and satisfying dinner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Island Chicken and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 380 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 45g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 2g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 28g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 45% of daily value per serving

Iron: 15% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: Tree nuts (almonds), soy

Summary

Island Chicken and Rice is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and nutritious dish that is sure to please your taste buds.

Summary

Island Chicken and Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy sauce, served over fluffy rice. This dish is easy to make and is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the taste of the tropics with this delicious recipe!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a friend in Hawaii. We had spent the morning exploring the beautiful beaches and lush forests of the island, and now it was time for dinner.

My friend's mother, a wonderful cook, was preparing a meal for us. As I watched her in the kitchen, I was mesmerized by the smells and sounds of her cooking. She moved with such ease and grace, as if she had been doing this her whole life.

I asked her what she was making, and she smiled and said, "Island chicken and rice." I had never heard of such a dish before, but I was intrigued. As she cooked, she explained to me the ingredients and techniques she was using. The chicken was marinated in a delicious blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar. The rice was cooked with coconut milk and pineapple, giving it a sweet and savory flavor.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the island chicken and rice. It was a revelation. The flavors danced on my tongue, each bite more delicious than the last. I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

When I returned home from Hawaii, I set out to recreate the island chicken and rice recipe. I reached out to my friend's mother for guidance, and she was more than happy to share her secrets with me. She told me about her own journey in learning to make the dish, how she had picked up tips and tricks from friends and family over the years.

I spent hours in my own kitchen, experimenting with different marinades and cooking techniques. I wanted to get the recipe just right, to capture the essence of that magical meal I had in Hawaii. And finally, after many failed attempts and countless tweaks, I did it. I had mastered the art of island chicken and rice.

Over the years, I have continued to refine the recipe, adding my own twists and touches to make it truly my own. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness. And now, as I sit down to enjoy a steaming plate of island chicken and rice, I can't help but feel grateful for that fateful day in Hawaii, when I first discovered this incredible dish.

The recipe for island chicken and rice has become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I turn to time and time again when I want to transport myself back to that tropical paradise. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories and traditions that last a lifetime.

And so, as I take my last bite of island chicken and rice, I can't help but smile. The recipe may have come from a faraway island, but it has found a permanent home in my heart. And for that, I am truly grateful.