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: 1 pound chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup jasmine rice; 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice); 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Inspiration

I love making One Pan Pineapple Chicken And Rice when I want a delicious and fuss-free meal. The tropical sweetness from the pineapple combined with savory chicken and fluffy rice creates a symphony of flavors that my family adores. The beauty of this dish is that everything cooks together in one pan, which means minimal cleanup and maximum taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests without being stuck in the kitchen for hours.

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:19:35.129Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how effortlessly it came together. The combination of rice, chicken, and pineapple not only created a sweet and savory dish but also filled my kitchen with enticing aromas that had everyone anticipating dinner. I believe using fresh pineapple instead of canned gives the dish a vibrant flavor that elevates it to another level.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how versatile it is. I often switch up the vegetables based on what I have on hand. Adding bell peppers or snap peas not only boosts the nutrition but also adds color and texture. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover veggies, making this dish both practical and tasty!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors
Quick and easy one-pan cooking for hassle-free cleanup
Versatile recipe that allows for customization with different vegetables

Understanding the Flavor Profile

The combination of sweet pineapple with savory chicken creates a unique flavor profile that's both refreshing and satisfying. The acidity from the pineapple not only balances the richness of the chicken but also helps to tenderize it during cooking. This dish effectively introduces an unexpected twist to the classic chicken and rice pairing, making it a favorite at dinner tables.

As the rice cooks, it absorbs the juices from the chicken and pineapple, which deepens its flavor. You might notice the rice taking on a beautiful golden hue, enhanced by the caramelization that occurs when the sugars in the pineapple interact with the heat. This results in a dish where each component harmonizes, providing bites that are both sweet and savory.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Using a large skillet for this one-pan recipe ensures even heat distribution, which is key for cooking the chicken properly without drying it out. Be sure to preheat your skillet before adding oil; this helps create a nice sear on the chicken, locking in juices and flavor. If your chicken pieces are unevenly cut, consider cutting them into uniform sizes to ensure they cook through at the same rate, usually about 5-7 minutes at medium heat.

When adding the rice and liquids, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil. This helps to prevent the rice from overcooking or becoming mushy. A quick tip is to keep the lid on while the rice cooks; this traps steam and maintains moisture. If you find the rice isn't cooking as desired, adding a splash more chicken broth can help without diluting the dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice

1 pound chicken breasts, diced
1 cup jasmine rice
1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the jasmine rice, pineapple juice, chicken broth, and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Incorporate Vegetables

Once simmering, add the chopped red bell pepper and the pineapple chunks. Stir to combine and cover the skillet. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Finish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking. You can also add chopped cilantro or cashews as a topping for added freshness and crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is quite flexible when it comes to ingredient substitutions. If jasmine rice isn’t available, you can easily swap it with basmati or long-grain white rice, just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly. For those requiring a gluten-free version, replace soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, ensuring you maintain the dish's savory depth.

For a boost of nutrition, consider adding frozen peas or diced carrots along with the red bell pepper. They not only add vibrant color but also enhance the texture without overpowering the dish's tropical essence. If you prefer a spicier kick, incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of Sriracha as a garnish can elevate the flavor further.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One Pan Pineapple Chicken and Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead option. When storing, ensure it cools completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make the rice soggy. This is perfect for meal prep or as a quick lunch option throughout the week.

To reheat, simply place it in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. To retain moisture, add a splash of chicken broth or water. You can also microwave it; just cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. This dish retains its delightful flavors even after reheating, ensuring that you can enjoy it just as much the next day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. Adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

→ What can I substitute for soy sauce?

You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy sauce alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.

→ Can I add different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies such as snap peas, broccoli, or carrots to enhance the dish.