One Pan Pineapple Chicken And Rice

Name: One Pan Pineapple Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups jasmine rice; 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice); 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

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I love creating meals that are not only delicious but also simple to make. This One Pan Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish captures the sweet tang of fresh pineapple paired with tender chicken, all cooked together for an easy weeknight dinner. The best part? Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. I’m excited to share a recipe that celebrates vibrant flavors and brings a tropical taste to my dinner table. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite of this delightful dish!

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:05:35.171Z

When I first created this One Pan Pineapple Chicken and Rice, I was looking for a quick solution that would be both filling and flavorful. The combination of juicy chicken, aromatic rice, and sweet pineapple not only makes for a mouthwatering meal but also pleases the whole family. I found that letting the chicken marinate in the pineapple juice enhances its flavor and tenderness like nothing else.

In my experience, the secret to achieving the perfect texture for the rice lies in the cooking liquid. I like to use a mix of chicken broth and the leftover pineapple juice, which infuses the rice with a sweet and savory profile. Be sure not to rush the cooking process; allowing the rice to absorb all the flavors makes a world of difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicious harmony of sweet and savory flavors
Convenient one-pan preparation
Kids will love the tropical twist!
Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings

Mastering the Perfect Marinade

Marinating the chicken not only infuses it with the delightful sweetness of pineapple juice but also tenderizes the meat, yielding juicy results. Allowing the chicken to marinate for about 15 minutes is just enough time to develop flavor without making it overly salty. If you're short on time, even a quick 5-minute soak can still enhance the dish, although the longer it sits, the more flavorful it gets. Be sure to toss the chicken in the marinade well for even coating.

For an added kick, consider incorporating a splash of lime juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the marinade. This will balance the sweetness of the pineapple and add a layer of complexity to the dish. Remember to keep that marinade, as it will beautifully meld with the rice later on, creating a cohesive flavor profile.

Cooking the Rice to Perfection

When adding the jasmine rice to the skillet, make sure to stir it well with the other ingredients, allowing each grain to absorb the flavorful juices. Cooking the rice in chicken broth instead of water elevates its taste significantly, resulting in more savory and aromatic rice. After bringing the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to a low simmer and ensure the pan is well-covered to trap steam, essential for properly cooking the rice.

Keep an eye on the rice as it cooks; if you find it absorbing liquid too quickly, add a couple of tablespoons of broth to prevent scorching. Properly cooked rice should be tender yet firm, with a slightly glossy appearance. If you notice it's still too crunchy after the cooking time, add a splash of liquid and cover for a few minutes—it’s an easy fix!

Ingredients

For the Pineapple Chicken and Rice

2 cups jasmine rice
1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
2 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes to soak in the flavors.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Rice and Liquid

Stir in the jasmine rice, chicken broth, and drained pineapple chunks. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.

Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your one pan meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of lime juice to the dish just before serving. You can also substitute brown rice for a healthier version, but ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This One Pan Pineapple Chicken and Rice is perfect for meal prep! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of water or additional chicken broth to maintain moisture, as the rice can dry out in the microwave or on the stovetop. Heat it gently, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

If you're rushing out the door, consider packing individual portions in microwave-safe containers for a quick grab-and-go meal. This recipe also freezes well; just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

While this dish is a complete meal on its own, you can enhance it with fresh side dishes. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables would complement the tropical flavors beautifully, adding crunch and freshness. Consider drizzling a citrus dressing over the salad to tie the flavors together, particularly if it includes ingredients like avocado or mango.

For an extra special touch, serve your Pineapple Chicken and Rice with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts sprinkled on top. This adds texture and a hint of nuttiness, making each bite even more delightful. A wedge of lime on the side can offer a zesty brightness, perfect for those who love a tart contrast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it's fully thawed before marinating and cooking.

→ Is there a substitute for jasmine rice?

You can replace jasmine rice with long-grain rice or basmati rice for a similar texture.

→ Can I add more veggies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add peas, carrots, or any other vegetables you enjoy.

→ What can I do with leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave.