This Caribbean-inspired dish combines the flavors of juicy chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of spices, served with fragrant pineapple cilantro rice. It’s a delightful meal that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. The marinade infuses the chicken with a burst of flavor, while the pineapple cilantro rice adds a refreshing and aromatic twist. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients for Caribbean Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredients for Pineapple Cilantro Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 cup diced pineapple
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt, to taste
How to Make Caribbean Chicken with Pineapple Cilantro Rice:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, cumin, cinnamon, paprika, allspice, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the Pineapple Cilantro Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
- Stir in diced pineapple and chopped cilantro. Season with salt, to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the sliced chicken over the pineapple cilantro rice. Garnish with additional cilantro, if desired. Enjoy!
About the Main Ingredients:
- Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is a lean protein that is versatile and easy to cook. It absorbs flavors well, making it ideal for marinating.
- Orange Juice: Orange juice adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the marinade, complementing the spices and adding a touch of sweetness.
- Pineapple: Pineapple adds a juicy sweetness to the dish, balancing the savory flavors of the chicken and spices. It also provides a tropical flair.
- Cilantro: Cilantro adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the rice, enhancing the overall freshness of the dish. It pairs beautifully with the pineapple and chicken.
This Caribbean Chicken with Pineapple Cilantro Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to impress. The combination of juicy chicken, fragrant spices, sweet pineapple, and fresh cilantro creates a delicious and exotic meal that will transport you to the tropics with every bite.
