Get ready to treat your taste buds to a tropical celebration with my One-Pan Pineapple Chicken & Rice! This easy chicken recipe is the epitome of a stress-free weeknight dinner—effortless, flavorful, and just the right amount of exotic flair. Tender chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection, then nestled atop fragrant long-grain rice that soaks up a lively blend of chicken broth, fresh pineapple juice, and savory soy sauce. Toss in juicy pineapple chunks and vibrant bell peppers, and you’ve got a colorful one-pan meal that feels like a mini vacation on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself, this dish brings sunshine and smiles with every forkful.
Brimming with sunshine, this tropical chicken creation truly transports you to paradise in every bite! With just 15 minutes of prep, 35 minutes of cooking, and a brief 5-minute rest, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. At about 480 kcal per serving, it’s beginner-friendly but sophisticated in flavor: the zing of ground ginger, the sweet-tart punch of pineapple, and a subtle soy-savory undertone that ties everything together. As someone who lives for one-pan meals, I promise this dish will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. So grab your skillet, crank up the heat, and let’s bring a burst of tropical chicken goodness to your dinner table!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN ONE-PAN PINEAPPLE CHICKEN & RICE
Before diving into the cooking action, let’s spotlight the star players that make this pineapple rice fiesta come to life. Each ingredient has a crucial role—balancing sweet, savory, and aromatic notes to create that signature tropical chicken experience.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
Lean and tender, these chicken breasts soak up all the sweet pineapple and ginger-infused juices. They’re the heart of this dish, providing protein and substance.
- Olive Oil
This pantry staple helps you achieve a golden sear on the chicken while adding a subtle fruity richness. It’s the foundation for building flavor in the skillet.
- Onion
Finely chopped onion softens and sweetens as it cooks, creating a savory base that complements both the rice and pineapple.
- Garlic
Just a couple of cloves pack an aromatic punch. Minced garlic brings warmth and depth, ensuring every bite has that irresistible garlicky undertone.
- Long-Grain White Rice
The perfect canvas for soaking up all the tropical juices. Its neutral flavor and fluffy texture mean every grain carries a burst of pineapple chicken goodness.
- Chicken Broth
A key liquid component, chicken broth infuses the rice with savory richness while keeping it tender and moist.
- Pineapple Juice
Fresh pineapple juice brightens the dish with natural sweetness and acidity, balancing the savory soy sauce and ginger.
- Pineapple Chunks
Juicy, bite-sized pieces add bursts of sweetness and a tropical texture contrast against the tender chicken and fluffy rice.
- Soy Sauce
A splash of umami that deepens the flavor profile. It ties together all the ingredients with its salty, savory character.
- Ground Ginger
Just enough to add a gentle warmth and zing. Ground ginger elevates the pineapple chicken into truly tropical territory.
- Salt
Enhances all the flavors, making sweet notes sweeter and savory notes more robust.
- Black Pepper
A light dusting of black pepper adds a subtle heat that keeps the dish lively without overpowering.
- Bell Pepper
Diced bell pepper brings crunch and vibrant color, plus a hint of sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with pineapple.
- Green Onions
Used as a garnish, chopped green onions add freshness, color, and a mild oniony bite that brightens each serving.
- Fresh Cilantro
Optional but highly recommended for a pop of herbal brightness and an extra layer of tropical flair.
HOW TO MAKE ONE-PAN PINEAPPLE CHICKEN & RICE
Let’s dive into the simple, step-by-step process that turns these ingredients into a tropical chicken and rice masterpiece. Follow along and watch how a handful of pantry staples transform into a vibrant, one-pan meal.
1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat until shimmering. This ensures a perfect sear and prevents sticking.
2. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Place them in the skillet and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until each breast is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release its fragrance.
4. Stir in the long-grain rice, using a spatula to coat each grain with the onion–garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, pineapple juice, soy sauce, ground ginger, and the reserved juice from the canned pineapple. Stir gently to combine everything into a uniform cooking liquid.
5. Return the seared chicken to the pan, placing each breast on top of the rice bed. Scatter the pineapple chunks and diced bell pepper around the chicken for even flavor distribution.
6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook, undisturbed, for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, still covered, for 5 minutes. This brief rest allows the steam to finish cooking the rice and keeps the chicken juicy.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork, gently stirring to mix the pineapple and bell peppers throughout. Slice the chicken breasts and arrange them back on top. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro for an extra pop of color and freshness.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR ONE-PAN PINEAPPLE CHICKEN & RICE
Once your tropical chicken and pineapple rice is ready, there are endless ways to elevate the presentation and flavor. Serving this dish turns any meal into a festive celebration—here are a few of my favorite ideas:
- Serve with steamed broccoli or blanched green beans on the side to add a fresh, vibrant crunch and a boost of greens.
- Pair it with a light cucumber and mango salad, drizzled with lime juice, for a refreshing contrast that enhances the tropical vibes.
- Top each plate with a drizzle of sweet chili sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick that cuts through the sweetness.
- Garnish with toasted coconut flakes and a wedge of lime for an extra layer of texture and zesty brightness.
HOW TO STORE ONE-PAN PINEAPPLE CHICKEN & RICE
This one-pan meal is just as delightful the next day, making it perfect for meal prep and leftovers. Here’s how to store your pineapple chicken & rice to keep it fresh and flavorful:
- Refrigerate in an Airtight Container: Transfer cooled leftovers into a tightly sealed container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the rice’s moisture.
- Freeze in Portions: Divide the cooled dish into freezer-safe, portion-sized containers. Freeze for up to 2–3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before warming gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a little extra liquid.
- Reheat Gently: Whether refrigerated or thawed, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding liquid if needed to prevent drying out. Cover the pan to trap steam and ensure even heating.
- Refresh with Fresh Garnishes: After reheating, sprinkle on fresh green onions and cilantro to restore that just-made brightness and aroma before serving.
CONCLUSION
What a delicious journey we’ve taken—from cooking aromatic onions and garlic to simmering rice in a luscious pineapple-ginger blend, then finally uncovering a one-pan tropical fiesta that feels both effortless and impressive. This One-Pan Pineapple Chicken & Rice checks all the boxes: it’s beginner-friendly, cost-effective, and bursting with vibrant colors and flavors that make dinner feel like a celebration. With just 15 minutes of prep and a total active time of about 35 minutes, plus a brief 5-minute resting period, you’ll have a plateful of sunset-hued goodness ready in under an hour. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a laid-back lunch, this dish brings a smile to the table and guarantees requests for seconds. Feel free to print out this article and save it in your recipe binder—it’s a keeper you’ll revisit season after season.
I hope you’ve enjoyed following along with my conversational spin on this easy pineapple chicken and rice recipe, complete with SEO-friendly twists to help you find it again whenever you crave a tropical chicken escape. Don’t forget, you can scroll down to the FAQ section below for answers to common questions about substitutions, cooking techniques, and flavor variations. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear about your experience! Leave a comment, share your feedback, or ask any questions if you need guidance—cooking should be fun and collaborative, and I’m here to help you make this tropical one-pan meal a shining star in your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!
One-Pan Pineapple Chicken & Rice
Description
Brimming with sunshine, this dish pairs tangy pineapple bites and savory ginger-seasoned chicken nestled on fragrant rice, creating a colorful, effortless meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pan over medium heat.
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Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in the rice, coating it with the onion and garlic mixture. Add the chicken broth, pineapple juice, soy sauce, ground ginger, and the reserved pineapple juice from the canned pineapple. Stir everything together to combine.
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Return the chicken to the pan, placing it on top of the rice. Add the pineapple chunks and diced bell pepper around the chicken.
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Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
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Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and gently stir to mix the pineapple and bell peppers with the rice.
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Slice the chicken and arrange it on top of the rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro, if using.
Note
- For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the pineapple juice and soy sauce mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a slightly spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos when cooking the onions.
- You can substitute the bell pepper with other vegetables like peas, carrots, or even zucchini for a different twist.
- This recipe works well with brown rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly as brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer cook time.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
