One Pan Chicken And Rice With Pineapple

Name: One Pan Chicken And Rice With Pineapple
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups jasmine rice; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 medium onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm & Wholesome

I love making One Pan Chicken And Rice With Pineapple for a quick, delicious dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and sweet pineapple, all cooked together in one pan for easy cleanup. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a delightful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or when hosting friends. I appreciate how the pineapple adds a touch of sweetness, contrasting perfectly with the savory soy sauce and seasonings. It's a meal that always leaves everyone asking for seconds!

Created by

Rosalie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:19:17.971Z

When I first tried One Pan Chicken And Rice With Pineapple, I was amazed by how simple yet flavorful it was. I often struggle with finding time to make dinner, but this recipe lets me create something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. The key is to let the ingredients cook together, allowing the rice to soak up all the delicious juices from the chicken and pineapple.

One tip I've learned is to use fresh pineapple for the best flavor. Canned pineapple works in a pinch, but the freshness really elevates the dish. Plus, I love how the sweetness of the pineapple balances the savory chicken and seasonings. It's a dish I can confidently serve to guests!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors
Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pan
Perfect for both family dinners and entertaining guests

Balancing Flavors

The key to making One Pan Chicken and Rice with Pineapple exceptional lies in achieving the right balance between sweet and savory flavors. The pineapple provides a refreshing sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the saltiness of soy sauce. Opt for fresh pineapple when possible, as it offers a brighter flavor and a firmer texture, enhancing each bite. If you're using canned pineapple, be sure to drain it well to prevent excess moisture from affecting the rice's texture.

In this recipe, the soy sauce isn't just for seasoning; it also adds depth and umami to the overall dish. A low-sodium version can be used if you're watching your salt intake. Consider adding a splash of sesame oil at the end for an extra layer of flavor. Not only does this elevate the dish, but it also brings a delicious hint of nuttiness that pairs well with both chicken and pineapple.

Cooking Technique

Searing the chicken properly is critical for locking in moisture and flavor. Make sure your pan is hot enough to create a nice golden-brown crust on the chicken breasts—generally, a few drops of water should sizzle when the pan is ready. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of searing. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary, allowing it to rest before slicing to ensure it remains juicy.

When incorporating the rice into the dish, it's essential to let it toast slightly before adding the liquid. This step enhances the rice's nutty flavor and helps it absorb the chicken broth more effectively. Stir the rice well after adding the broth and pineapple to ensure even cooking. If you notice that the rice isn't cooking evenly, give it a gentle stir midway through cooking, but keep the lid on as much as possible during this time.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups jasmine rice
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure you have these ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your One Pan Chicken And Rice With Pineapple:

Sear the Chicken

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Sear each side for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, and pineapple chunks. Place the seared chicken breasts back into the pan and bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Cook the Rice

Cover the pan and let it cook for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to ensure proper steaming.

Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Enjoy your flavorful and easy-to-make meal!

Pro Tips

Using fresh pineapple enhances the flavors significantly. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers of One Pan Chicken and Rice with Pineapple can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It's an excellent option for meal prep. To reheat, I recommend using the microwave. Transfer the portion to a microwave-safe dish and cover it to retain moisture. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring gently, until warmed through. This method ensures the dish does not dry out and retains its delightful flavors.

If you want to store it for a longer period, this dish freezes well for up to three months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to eat, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned. Keep in mind that the texture of the pineapple may change slightly after freezing, but it will still taste delicious.

Variations and Serving Ideas

Feel free to add personal twists to this recipe! For a little heat, consider adding a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes during the sautéing phase. You can also swap the jasmine rice for brown rice; just increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes and ensure there's enough liquid. If you're looking for a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

As for serving suggestions, this dish pairs nicely with a simple side salad or steamed green vegetables to balance the meal. Garnish with additional chopped green onions and a squeeze of fresh lime juice to elevate the dish further. This adds a zesty brightness that complements the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully, making for a vibrant presentation and flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but you'll need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid. Brown rice usually takes about 45 minutes to cook.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Sear the chicken and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Sure! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ What other proteins work in this recipe?

You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist!