One Pan Pineapple Chicken And Rice

Name: One Pan Pineapple Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into pieces; 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed; 1 can (8 oz) pineapple chunks, drained; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Smart Quick Meals Ideas

I love cooking meals that are easy to prepare and full of flavor, and this One Pan Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe ticks all the boxes. It combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and the sweetness of pineapple in just one dish, making cleanup a breeze. This meal has quickly become a family favorite, as it balances sweet and savory perfectly. I appreciate that it’s ready in about 40 minutes, which fits perfectly into our busy weeknight routine without sacrificing taste.

Created by

Genevieve Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:53:34.809Z

When I first tried combining pineapple with chicken, I was skeptical, but the flavors brought out the best in each other. The juicy pineapple and savory chicken create a harmony that’s not just delicious but also surprising. Cooking everything in one pan allows the rice to absorb all those fantastic flavors, making every bite a delight.

I recommend using fresh pineapple when possible, as it brings a brightness that canned varieties can’t match. Also, don’t skimp on the herbs and spices; they elevate the dish and give it depth, transforming a simple meal into something extraordinary.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delicious blend of sweet and savory that will surprise your taste buds
Minimal cleanup with just one pan for everything
Quick preparation, great for weeknight dinners

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

One of the standout features of this One Pan Pineapple Chicken and Rice is the delightful balance between sweet and savory flavors. The natural sweetness of the pineapple pairs beautifully with the savory depth brought by soy sauce and chicken broth. This combination creates a dish that is both hearty and refreshing, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights when comfort food is a must. The key is to use a good quality soy sauce; its umami properties help deepen the overall flavor profile.

Moreover, the use of jasmine rice contributes to the dish's aromatic qualities. As the rice cooks in the flavorful broth, it absorbs all the juices from the chicken and pineapple, resulting in a fluffy texture with each grain coated in a glossy sheen. If you prefer brown rice for its nutritional benefits, just be mindful that it will require more liquid and an extended cooking time, approximately 30-35 minutes, so plan accordingly.

Smart Tips for Cooking

For those looking to streamline their meal prep, consider cutting the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. This not only helps avoid any undercooked bits but also allows the chicken to absorb more flavor from the seasonings. Using a large skillet is essential here; it provides enough space for the chicken to brown nicely, which develops a crucial depth of flavor that simmers into the rice.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is quick and easy; simply pop it back into a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry. This will help revive the dish without sacrificing its taste or texture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into pieces
1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed
1 can (8 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Make sure to rinse the rice well to remove excess starch for fluffy grains!

Instructions

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and the chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and ginger. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Rice and Pineapple

Stir in the jasmine rice and the drained pineapple chunks, allowing them to mix with the chicken for 2 minutes.

Combine Liquid Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce. Stir to combine all ingredients, then bring to a boil.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Serve this dish hot, and enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors!

Pro Tips

Using fresh pineapple enhances the flavor profile significantly. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added texture and nutrition.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is quite versatile when it comes to ingredient substitutions. If you're not keen on chicken thighs, you can swap in boneless, skinless chicken breasts, though you'll want to adjust the cooking time as breasts can dry out if overcooked. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, consider using firm tofu, cut into cubes, and cook until golden brown before adding the rice and pineapple.

You can also replace jasmine rice with basmati or long-grain rice, but keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly. If you like a bit of spice, add in a diced jalapeño or sprinkle some red pepper flakes during the sautéing stage for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

This One Pan Pineapple Chicken and Rice is delicious on its own, but I love to elevate it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. The crispness of the veggies complements the dish's sweetness and adds a nice crunch. You might also consider serving it alongside a light vinaigrette, which contrasts beautifully with the savory elements of the chicken and rice.

For a fun twist, serve the dish in hollowed-out pineapple halves for an extra touch of presentation. This way, the pineapple is not only a flavor component but also becomes a visually appealing part of your dinner table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast will work well, but make sure not to overcook as it can become dry.

→ What can I substitute for chicken broth?

Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for the chicken broth for a lighter meal.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it. Just keep the rice and chicken separate to prevent sogginess.

→ What side dishes go well with this meal?

A side salad or steamed vegetables complements this dish beautifully.