Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of cooked rice; 1 pound of chicken breast, diced; 1 cup of pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Bliss

I absolutely love cooking simple yet delicious meals that come together in one pot, and this Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a perfect example. With tender chicken pieces, fluffy rice, and a hint of sweetness from pineapple, this dish is both comforting and satisfying. Not only does it save on cleanup time, but the combination of flavors creates a delightful experience for the taste buds. In just 30 minutes, you can serve this flavorful meal to your family or friends, making it a go-to weeknight dinner option that everyone will enjoy.

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:07:15.925Z

When I first experimented with combining pineapple and chicken, I was surprised at how well the flavors complemented each other. The sweetness of the pineapple balances the savory taste of chicken perfectly. I used coconut milk for creaminess, which made the dish richer than I anticipated, and this has become my secret ingredient to elevate any one-pot meal.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition and colors. One of my favorite tips is to let the dish sit for a few minutes off the heat before serving; it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes every bite more enjoyable.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors
Creamy texture that coats every bite
Quick and easy one-pot preparation
Perfect for weeknight dinners and gatherings

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken and Rice is undoubtedly the coconut milk, which gives the dish its luxurious creaminess. Coconut milk not only adds a rich texture but also infuses a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken. Be sure to use full-fat coconut milk for the best results, as it creates a silkier sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with light coconut milk, but the texture may not be as rich.

Pineapple chunks contribute a layer of sweetness and acidity that balances the richness of the coconut milk. Fresh pineapple yields the best flavor, but canned pineapple works perfectly well—just drain it to prevent excess liquid. The sweetness of the pineapple can also be adjusted; if you prefer it less sweet, add just half the quantity at first, then taste and adjust during cooking.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Sautéing the chicken to golden perfection is key. Use medium heat to avoid overcooking the chicken while ensuring it browns nicely. If the heat is too high, you risk drying out the chicken or burning the garlic when added. Look for a slight golden crust when you stir the chicken, which indicates it's ready for the next step. Cooking time may vary based on the size of your chicken pieces—smaller pieces cook faster, so watch closely for doneness.

When mixing the liquids, don’t rush the combining process; take a moment to let the coconut milk and chicken broth meld together, which will help thicken the sauce as it simmers. Bring it to a gentle boil, then lower to a simmer to prevent splattering and maintain a steady cooking temperature, allowing the flavors to develop fully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

2 cups of cooked rice
1 pound of chicken breast, diced
1 cup of pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're just moments away from enjoying this luscious dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy one pot masterpiece:

Sauté Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Garlic and Pineapple

Stir in the minced garlic and pineapple chunks, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Stir in Liquids

Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, then add the soy sauce. Mix well to combine.

Combine with Rice

Add the cooked rice to the pot, stirring to combine all ingredients. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.

Simmer

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, until everything is heated through and the flavors meld together.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

With these easy steps, your creamy one pot pineapple chicken and rice is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider tossing in some crushed peanuts or cashews just before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is a great time-saver for meal prepping. You can cook the chicken and mix it with the liquids and pineapple ahead of time, then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the mixture and add in the cooked rice. This not only preserves the flavors but also allows them to deepen as they sit together in the fridge.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for about 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to the pot to prevent it from drying out and warm over low heat until heated through. If you find the dish too thick after storing, adding a bit of coconut milk can restore creaminess.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a contrast in texture, consider serving this dish with a side of crispy-fried vegetables or a fresh salad. The crunch will complement the creamy and soft texture of the chicken and rice. Additionally, feel free to customize the dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during the sautéing process for extra color and nutrition.

If you're looking to spice things up, try adding a tablespoon of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when you mix in the liquids. This will introduce a subtle heat that perfectly balances the sweetness of the pineapple, creating a more complex flavor profile that can elevate a simple weeknight meal to something special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the coconut milk?

Yes, you can use heavy cream or milk if you prefer a non-coconut flavor.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and can be reheated for a quick lunch or dinner.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, peas, or even spinach for more nutrition.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, just be aware that brown rice may require a bit more liquid and cooking time.