Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Thighs with Pineapple Rice

• 1 ½ cups jasmine rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice)
• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• ¼ cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced for garnish

Steps

1. 1 Rinse the jasmine rice until the water runs clear, then drain.
2. 2 Combine rice, reserved pineapple juice, and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Stir in crushed pineapple and set aside.
3. 3 In a small bowl, mix teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
4. 4 Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and cook for 5 minutes per side until golden.
5. 5 Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, reduce heat to medium, and simmer for 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
6. 6 Serve chicken over pineapple rice, garnished with scallions.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board and knife

Variations

• Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• Add diced bell peppers to the rice for extra color and crunch.

Substitutions

• If you can't find jasmine rice, use basmati or long-grain white rice.
• Coconut aminos can replace soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Pairings

• A crisp Asian pear salad.
• A light Japanese green tea to complement the flavors.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in half the sauce mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Use fresh pineapple for a more vibrant flavor if available.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water to keep moist.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with steamed broccoli or a simple green salad.
• A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nice crunch.

FAQ