If you’re looking to bring the exotic flavors of Thai cuisine to your kitchen, Chicken Shrimp and Pineapple Fried Rice is the perfect dish. This delightful recipe combines succulent chicken, juicy shrimp, and sweet pineapple with fragrant jasmine rice and a blend of authentic Thai spices. This dish is both satisfying and refreshing, offering a taste of tropical paradise in every bite. The origins of this dish are rooted in Thai cuisine, where pineapple’s sweetness balances the savory flavors of shrimp and chicken, creating a harmonious blend that’s both unique and delicious. With influences from Chinese fried rice techniques, this dish offers a fusion of flavors that’s irresistible.
Ingredients
To make this flavorful Chicken Shrimp and Pineapple Fried Rice, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup cooked jasmine rice (preferably chilled)
- 1 cup chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (use a mix of colors for visual appeal)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1/2 cup cashew nuts
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili, chopped (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Ensure the jasmine rice is cooked and chilled, as cold rice helps achieve the perfect texture.
- Dice the chicken breast and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Peel and devein the shrimp, then set aside.
- Dice the bell peppers and pineapple, chop the green onions, and mince the garlic.
Cooking
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- In the same pan, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
- Sauté Vegetables and Pineapple:
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan.
- Sauté the garlic, bell peppers, and red chili for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the pineapple chunks and cashew nuts, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Combine the Rice:
- Push the sautéed ingredients to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space.
- Scramble the eggs until just set, then mix everything together.
- Add Sauces and Spices:
- Add the cooked rice to the pan and stir well.
- Pour in the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and curry powder, mixing until the rice is evenly coated.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the pan, stirring everything together.
- Add the chopped green onions and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Tips and Variations
- Rice Tips: Use day-old jasmine rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and can become mushy when fried.
- Protein Variations: You can substitute the shrimp or chicken with tofu or pork for a different protein option.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add vegetables such as peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
- Secret Ingredient: A splash of sesame oil at the end adds an authentic touch to the dish, enhancing its flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili based on your spice preference. If you like it spicier, consider adding a dash of sriracha or chili paste.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 900mg
Chicken Shrimp and Pineapple Fried Rice is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken and shrimp with the tropical sweetness of pineapple. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, offering a taste of Thai cuisine that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Try it today and discover the joy of homemade fried rice.