One Pan Chicken And Rice With Pineapple

Name: One Pan Chicken And Rice With Pineapple
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Soul Food Bliss

I absolutely love cooking meals that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. One Pan Chicken And Rice With Pineapple is one of my go-to recipes when I want something comforting yet tropical. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and juicy pineapple creates a harmony of flavors that transport me to a culinary paradise. Plus, the best part is that everything is made in just one pan, making clean-up a breeze. This dish truly brings sunshine to my table, and I'm excited to share it with you!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:43:16.364Z

When I first tried One Pan Chicken And Rice With Pineapple, I was amazed at how well the sweet pineapple balanced the savory flavors of the chicken. The key to this dish is ensuring that the rice absorbs all the juices from the chicken and pineapple, making every bite packed with flavor. I find that letting the chicken marinate with spices while the rice cooks elevates the overall taste.

I discovered that using boneless, skinless chicken thighs works beautifully in this recipe. They stay moist during cooking and enhance the richness of the dish. The vibrant colors and fragrant aromas that fill my kitchen make this dish an instant favorite in my home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Easy one-pan cooking for hassle-free clean-up.
Packed with nutrition and great for family meals.

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a great One Pan Chicken And Rice With Pineapple lies in selecting high-quality ingredients. Opting for fresh pineapple will enhance the dish's flavor profile, giving it a sweet and tart juiciness. If fresh pineapple isn't available, canned pineapple chunks work well too—just make sure to drain them to avoid excess moisture in the dish. Choosing boneless, skinless chicken thighs adds tenderness and flavor, especially as they remain juicy while cooking.

The choice of rice is equally important. Long-grain white rice is ideal here because it remains fluffy and separate, absorbing the broth and pineapple juice effectively. If you want to experiment, you can substitute jasmine or basmati rice for a more fragrant result; however, you may need to adjust the liquid ratio slightly since these varieties can absorb moisture differently. Always check the rice instructions for optimal cooking times.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

For perfectly cooked chicken, ensuring that the pan is preheated before adding the chicken is crucial. This helps in achieving a beautiful golden-brown crust. Cook the chicken on medium heat for 5-6 minutes on each side; both sides should shimmer and show slight browning. If the chicken begins to stick to the pan, it’s a sign it’s not ready to be turned yet.

When sautéing the onion and garlic, look for a translucent appearance to indicate they are done. Overcooking them can lead to bitterness, so keep stirring them gently. Once you add the rice and broth, avoid stirring too much after returning the chicken; this allows the rice to form a crust at the bottom, which adds another layer of texture.

Ingredients

Ingredients for One Pan Chicken And Rice With Pineapple

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground ginger
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Prepare Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and ground ginger. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the chicken. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Cook Aromatics

In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice, then add the chicken broth and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Combine Chicken and Pineapple

Once boiling, reduce heat to low and return the chicken to the pan. Add the pineapple chunks, cover, and let it simmer for 25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Serve

Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the chicken with soy sauce and ginger for at least 30 minutes before cooking. You can also add bell peppers or snap peas for added color and crunch.

Storage and Meal Prep

This One Pan Chicken And Rice With Pineapple is excellent for meal prep. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I love to reheat it in the microwave; just add a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist while reheating, ensuring it doesn't dry out.

If you plan to freeze portions, you can do so for up to 3 months. Pack the rice and chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave. Heat thoroughly before serving, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to maintain food safety.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or steamed vegetables, creating a balanced meal. For a pop of color and flavor, serve it with fresh lime wedges or a sprinkle of cilantro. You can also offer hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick.

For a twist on the original recipe, consider adding chopped bell peppers or snap peas along with the onion and garlic. These vegetables not only add vibrant color but also contribute additional nutrition and crunch. You can also experiment with spices like paprika or a hint of cayenne for added depth without overshadowing the pineapple's sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and use more liquid as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What can I use instead of pineapple?

You can substitute pineapple with other fruits like mango or even sautéed bell peppers for a savory twist.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice in advance and reheat before serving. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.

→ Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The sweet pineapple and savory chicken make it a hit with kids. You can adjust the seasoning to suit their taste.