If you’re craving a meal that’s bright, flavorful, and comforting, this Pineapple Chicken and Rice will quickly become a new favorite. Juicy chicken pieces are simmered with tender rice, sweet pineapple, and a tangy, savory sauce that hits all the right notes. It’s the perfect combination of tropical sweetness and hearty, homey comfort. I first made this on a weeknight when I wanted something quick yet exciting—and it delivered! The flavors are perfectly balanced: sweet from the pineapple, salty from the soy sauce, and rich from the tender chicken. Whether you serve it as a family dinner or a meal-prep favorite, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a true all-in-one meal—protein, starch, and fruit all cooked together in one pan for easy cleanup. It’s a great blend of Asian-inspired flavor and tropical flair, making it both satisfying and refreshing. The chicken stays juicy, the rice soaks up every bit of the delicious sauce, and the pineapple adds bursts of sweetness that make each bite special. Plus, it’s versatile—you can make it mild or spicy, use brown or jasmine rice, and even add vegetables for a wholesome twist.
Print
Pineapple Chicken and Rice: A Sweet and Savory One-Pan Delight
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A flavorful and tropical-inspired one-pan dish made with tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and savory rice — a perfect balance of sweet and savory for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from the can or fresh)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in uncooked rice and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add chicken broth, pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, stir in the cooked chicken and pineapple chunks. Cover again and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff with a fork and garnish with green onions and cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Use brown rice for a healthier option (increase cooking time by 10–15 minutes).
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha before serving.
- This dish works great with shrimp or tofu as a protein alternative.
- Leftovers reheat well and make a great meal prep option.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – The protein base that cooks up tender and flavorful in the sauce.
Olive Oil – For searing the chicken and adding a smooth richness to the dish.
Garlic – Adds a fragrant, savory layer that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
Onion – Brings subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
Fresh or Canned Pineapple Chunks – The star ingredient, offering juicy sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory elements.
Soy Sauce – Adds salty umami depth and ties the flavors together.
Brown Sugar or Honey – Balances the tangy and savory flavors with just the right amount of sweetness.
Ginger (fresh or ground) – Brings warmth and a gentle kick that complements the pineapple beautifully.
Chicken Broth – Cooks the rice and enriches the sauce, keeping everything moist and flavorful.
Long-Grain or Jasmine Rice – Absorbs the sauce and becomes fluffy, fragrant, and full of flavor.
Red Bell Pepper (optional) – Adds color, crunch, and a light sweetness that complements the pineapple.
Salt and Black Pepper – For balanced seasoning throughout.
Green Onions or Cilantro (optional) – For a fresh garnish that brightens up the finished dish.
Directions
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden on all sides, about 4–5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté chopped onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Add the rice and sauce: Stir in the uncooked rice, soy sauce, brown sugar (or honey), and ginger. Pour in the chicken broth and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add pineapple and chicken: Return the chicken to the pan along with pineapple chunks and bell pepper if using. Stir everything to combine.
- Simmer: Cover and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Fluff and finish: Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and sprinkle with chopped green onions or cilantro before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4–6 people and takes about 40 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes to cook. It’s an easy one-pan meal perfect for weeknights or family dinners.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist. This dish also freezes well—store for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Pineapple Chicken – Add a drizzle of sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat.
Teriyaki Twist – Stir in a tablespoon of teriyaki sauce for extra umami richness.
Vegetable Boost – Mix in peas, carrots, or snap peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Coconut Rice Version – Replace part of the chicken broth with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor.
Grilled Pineapple Upgrade – Grill the pineapple before adding it for a caramelized, smoky sweetness.
Low-Sodium Option – Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth to control salt levels.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but increase the broth slightly and cook for about 40–45 minutes until tender.
Can I use leftover cooked rice?
Yes—reduce the broth by half and stir in the rice near the end of cooking to heat through.
Is fresh pineapple better than canned?
Both work great! Fresh offers a brighter flavor, while canned adds more sweetness.
Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely—shrimp, pork, or tofu all work beautifully.
Can I make this in a rice cooker?
Yes, combine all ingredients and cook according to your rice cooker’s settings.
What can I serve with this dish?
It’s great on its own, but pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats wonderfully and is perfect for meal prep.
How can I make it extra saucy?
Add a bit more broth or a tablespoon of soy sauce before simmering.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
How do I keep the rice from sticking?
Make sure to stir once or twice during cooking and use enough broth.
Conclusion
Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the ultimate combination of sweet, savory, and satisfying flavors—all made in one pan. The tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and fluffy rice come together in a perfectly balanced meal that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether for a weeknight dinner or casual entertaining, this easy dish delivers bold flavor, minimal cleanup, and maximum enjoyment in every bite.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!