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 thighs; 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 can (8oz) pineapple chunks, drained; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Bliss

I absolutely love making One Pan Chicken and Rice with Pineapple because it combines savory and sweet flavors in a simple yet delicious meal. The balance of juicy chicken, fragrant rice, and tropical pineapple makes for a delightful dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. Plus, since it’s all made in one pan, clean-up is a breeze! Whether I’m serving it to family or sharing with friends, this recipe always garners compliments and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:07:17.016Z

In my kitchen, One Pan Chicken and Rice with Pineapple has become a go-to meal for busy weeknights. The first time I made it, I was hesitant about combining chicken with pineapple, but the flavors melded beautifully. I discovered that using a bit of soy sauce balances the sweetness of the pineapple, adding depth to the dish. This unique touch has made it a favorite among my friends.

Another key tip I’ve learned is to let the rice absorb the juices from the chicken and pineapple. This little trick transforms a simple side into a flavorsome component of the dish. When plated, the bright colors and enticing aroma make it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. It's a true crowd-pleaser!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory chicken perfectly paired with sweet and tangy pineapple
One-pan convenience makes clean-up a breeze
Fluffy rice soaked in flavorful broth adds a comforting touch

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this One Pan Chicken and Rice with Pineapple plays a crucial role in developing the dish’s flavor profile. The chicken thighs are not only tender but also juicy, bringing a savory depth to each bite. Opting for bone-in thighs is an excellent alternative if you're looking for richer flavor; just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is well-cooked.

The combination of long-grain rice with chicken broth creates a fluffy texture that absorbs the aromatic flavors from the vegetables and spices. For a quicker cooking option, consider using jasmine or basmati rice, which can also enhance the aroma. Just be mindful to adjust the liquid amounts, as these rice types may require less cooking broth.

Tips for Cooking Perfection

When searing the chicken, ensure your skillet is preheated to medium-high heat, which will provide that beautiful golden-brown crust, essential for flavor development. If the chicken sticks, it’s likely not ready to flip; give it an extra minute or two before turning. This caramelization enhances the overall dish, creating a rich base for the rice to absorb.

After adding the rice and broth, keep an eye on it during simmering. If you notice the rice starting to dry out before it's cooked, add a splash more chicken broth or water to prevent it from burning. You’re looking for a texture where the rice is fluffy and slightly sticky, without any excess liquid.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This dish is perfect for meal prep; you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to retain moisture for optimal texture. I recommend reheating covered to trap steam, keeping the rice from drying out.

For serving, consider pairing this dish with a crunchy side salad or steamed vegetables to complement the sweet and savory flavors. If you want to elevate the dish further, add an extra layer of flavor with toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of teriyaki sauce on top just before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a flavorful experience!

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup long-grain rice
1 can (8oz) pineapple chunks, drained
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Ensure everything is prepped and ready before cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious outcome!

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper and sear them in the skillet for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, then mix in the pineapple chunks.

Simmer and Cook

Place the seared chicken back in the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture. Cover and reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.

Serve

Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy your delicious One Pan Chicken and Rice with Pineapple!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding bell peppers or peas to the rice during the last few minutes of cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make this dish gluten-free, swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, which offer a similar taste without the gluten. Both alternatives maintain the savory profile necessary for the dish.

For a lighter option, consider using skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Keep in mind that breasts cook faster, so you may reduce the searing time to about 3-4 minutes per side. Be extra cautious not to overcook and dry them out!

Flavor Variations

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or peas to the rice for an extra nutrient boost. Just toss them in along with the chicken before covering and simmering. This not only amps up the flavor but also brings added color to the dish, making it more visually appealing.

For a spicier kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or a couple of dashes of hot sauce into the rice mixture. This heat complements the sweet pineapple beautifully, balancing the dish and providing an exciting twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and use more liquid for the brown rice.

→ Is there a way to make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it, but the rice is best served fresh.

→ What can I substitute for pineapple?

Mango or peach chunks also work well if you're looking for a similar sweetness.