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 jasmine rice; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 cup chicken broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions for garnish (optional); Cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Food

When I first tried making One Pan Chicken and Rice with Pineapple, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such a delicious dish with all the flavors mingling together in one pan. The sweetness of the pineapple balances perfectly with the savory notes of the chicken and rice. It quickly became a family favorite because it requires minimal cleanup, making weeknight dinners a breeze. I love serving it with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor and color.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:34:16.461Z

When experimenting with different weeknight recipes, I realized how versatile chicken can be. Combining it with rice and pineapple introduced an exciting tropical twist that my family thoroughly enjoyed. I never would have thought that adding pineapple could enhance the whole dish, but its juices infuse the rice and chicken with a sweetness that is just incredible.

I learned that cooking everything in one pan keeps the flavors concentrated and minimalizes cleanup. Using a high-quality chicken broth instead of water ramps up the taste even more. Trust me, your dinner table will thank you for it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful blend of savory chicken and sweet pineapple
Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pan
Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping

      

Unlocking the Flavors

The combination of pineapple and chicken may seem unusual at first, but this contrast creates a wonderful symphony of flavors. The natural sweetness from the pineapple balances the savory, umami notes of the chicken and the rice. As the dish cooks, the sugars from the pineapple caramelize slightly, enhancing the overall taste. This subtle sweetness can appeal to both kids and adults, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.

It's essential to use fresh or high-quality canned pineapple to get the best flavor. When using fresh pineapple, be sure to remove the core, as it can be tough. If you're opting for canned pineapple, choose those packed in juice rather than syrup to maintain a cleaner flavor profile that complements the dish rather than overwhelming it.

Mastering the Cooking Process

Searing the chicken thighs at the right temperature is crucial. You should aim for medium-high heat to achieve that golden-brown crust, which not only adds flavor but also enhances the dish's visual appeal. If the chicken sticks to the pan, it might indicate that it’s not ready to flip. Wait until the chicken releases easily before turning it over.

When combining the rice and broth, it's vital to stir well to avoid clumping. This technique ensures that each grain of rice absorbs the savory liquid as it cooks. If you're using brown rice instead of jasmine rice, increase the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes because brown rice requires more liquid and time to cook.

Serving and Storing Tips

For a bright, fresh finish, topping the dish with green onions and cilantro adds not only color but also a burst of flavor. If you want to get creative, consider adding sautéed bell peppers or chopped nuts for extra texture. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad to balance out the meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish also reheats well; just ensure to heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice from drying out. Alternatively, follow the freezing tips by portioning the dish into freezer-safe containers to enjoy it later!

Ingredients

Ingredients for One Pan Chicken and Rice

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1 cup chicken broth
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions for garnish (optional)
Cilantro for garnish (optional)

Cooking Tips

Instructions

Sear the Chicken

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

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pan, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, and pineapple chunks. Place the seared chicken thighs on top and cover the pan.

Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid. Make sure to check the chicken for doneness.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with green onions and cilantro if desired, and serve warm.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, marinate the chicken thighs in the soy sauce and ginger for a few hours before cooking. It enhances the taste and makes the chicken even more tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to customize this recipe, there are several ingredient swaps you can consider. For a lighter option, substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be aware that breast meat may require slightly shorter cooking time to prevent it from drying out.

For those who may not enjoy pineapple, mango or peach chunks can serve as an equally delicious alternative, adding a different yet complementary sweetness. Additionally, switching jasmine rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice can make this dish gluten-free and lower in carbohydrates, while still maintaining a delightful texture.

Meal Prep Perfection

This One Pan Chicken and Rice with Pineapple is a fantastic candidate for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe to make enough for the week, just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you’re working with a larger batch. Cooking it all in one pan not only saves time but also ensures that flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall dish.

As you portion out the meals, consider adding in extra veggies like snap peas or carrots to increase the nutritional value. This way, you can enjoy a complete and satisfying meal that's ready to go, making your weeknight dinners stress-free!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you notice that your rice is still crunchy after the suggested cooking time, don't panic! Simply add a bit more broth and cover the pan, allowing it to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes. Keeping the lid on is crucial here, as it traps steam and helps cook the rice through. A little patience goes a long way!

Bear in mind that overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness; if you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. This will ensure juicy, flavorful chicken rather than dry, chewy pieces. Always check your chicken a few minutes before the estimated cooking time to allow for any variations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but be aware that brown rice typically requires more cooking time and additional liquid.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

You can substitute chicken with tofu and chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly dish.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños when cooking the onions for an added kick.

→ Can I use frozen pineapple chunks?

Absolutely! Just ensure to thaw them slightly before adding them to the dish for even cooking.