Pineapple Chicken And Rice

Ever tried chicken with a pop of pineapple? Oh wow—this dish is so bright and tasty. One bite and you’ll see what I mean.

Juicy chicken, tender rice, and sweet pineapple chunks all together. Every forkful is like a mini party in your mouth. It’s simple but full of cheer.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or a fun meal any day. No fancy steps. Just happy, yummy flavors that make you smile.

So grab a pan, some rice, and let’s get cooking. Pineapple chicken magic is just minutes away!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Reader Favorite: The blend of savory chicken and sweet pineapple always leaves everyone asking for seconds.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes it a weeknight hero.
• Flavorful and Comforting: The rice soaks up all the pineapple juices and broth, creating a rich, satisfying bite.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and have delicious lunches or dinners ready for days.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour

Servings:
Serves about 4 hungry eaters — great for family dinner. Double the batch if you’re meal prepping for the week.

Difficulty:
Very easy. If you can sauté and stir, you can master this.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large Skillet or Deep Sauté Pan (with lid)
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula
• Small Mixing Bowl (optional, for seasoning)

Ingredients for Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this easy and delicious dish together (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

• Chicken Breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and juicy bites.
• Pineapple Tidbits (with juice): Canned in 100% juice, not syrup. You’ll use the juice for extra flavor.
• Long Grain White Rice: Cooks up fluffy and absorbs all the savory-sweet flavors.
• Chicken Broth: Adds a rich, savory base to the rice.
• Olive Oil: Helps brown the chicken and keeps everything tender.
• Salt and Black Pepper: For basic seasoning and flavor balance.
• Green Onions: Adds a fresh, crisp pop right at the end.

Variations for Pineapple Chicken and Rice

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking for a little heat.
• Use Brown Rice: Swap for brown rice, but increase broth and cooking time slightly.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in bell peppers, peas, or carrots to pack in more nutrition.
• Swap the Protein: Try using shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
• Fresh Pineapple: If you have fresh pineapple on hand, use it! Just add a splash of extra broth since fresh pineapple is less juicy.

How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice (Step-by-Step Instructions)

1. Prep the Ingredients

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Open the can of pineapple tidbits and do not drain — you’ll need that juice later. Slice the green onions thinly and set everything aside.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook for about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides but not fully cooked through yet.

3. Add the Pineapple

Pour the entire can of pineapple tidbits, including the juice, into the skillet. Stir everything together so the chicken gets coated with that sweet, tangy pineapple goodness.

4. Add the Rice and Broth

Sprinkle the uncooked long-grain rice evenly over the chicken and pineapple. Pour the chicken broth over everything. Give it a gentle stir to make sure the rice is evenly distributed and submerged.

5. Simmer and Cook

Bring the mixture to a soft boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer gently for about 20–25 minutes. Check after 20 minutes — the rice should be tender, and most of the liquid should be absorbed.

6. Rest and Fluff

Turn off the heat but leave the skillet covered for another 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and finish cooking perfectly. After resting, uncover and fluff the mixture gently with a fork.

7. Finish with Green Onions

Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top before serving. It adds a fresh pop of color and a crisp bite that perfectly balances the warm, sweet-savory flavors.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice

This dish is cozy and complete on its own but can be elevated with simple sides:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp cucumber salad or simple garden salad balances the richness.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside grilled zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers.
• Asian-Inspired Sides: A drizzle of teriyaki sauce or sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can give it an Asian flair.
• Tropical Vibes: Garnish with a few extra pineapple tidbits and chopped cilantro for a vacation-like feel.

Storing Pineapple Chicken and Rice

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: This dish freezes beautifully. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use the Juice: Don’t skip the pineapple juice — it’s key to the rice’s delicious flavor.
• Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low after adding the broth to avoid burning the rice at the bottom.
• Even Cuts: Try to cut chicken pieces the same size so they cook evenly.
• Don’t Rush the Rest: Letting the dish rest after cooking makes the rice fluffier and the flavors blend better.

Nutrition Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings total):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	420 kcal
Protein	30 g
Carbohydrates	40 g
Fat	15 g
Saturated Fat	2 g
Cholesterol	75 mg
Sodium	580 mg
Fiber	2 g
Sugars	7 g

Note: Nutrition will vary slightly based on brands and exact measurements used.

Pineapple Chicken and Rice FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice needs more liquid and longer cooking time — about 10–15 minutes extra. Add an extra ½ cup of broth if you switch.

2. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Use about 1½ cups of diced fresh pineapple, but add an extra splash of chicken broth since you won’t have the juice from the can.

3. What if my rice isn’t fully cooked after 25 minutes?

No problem. Just add a little more broth (about ¼ cup), cover, and simmer for another 5–10 minutes until tender.

4. How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also sprinkle some chopped jalapeños on top before serving.

5. Can I make it ahead of time?

Definitely. It reheats beautifully. Store it in the fridge or freezer as described above, and reheat gently for a meal that tastes fresh.

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is that perfect middle ground between easy comfort food and tropical getaway flavors. The juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and fluffy rice come together in a simple, satisfying dish that’s loved by both kids and adults. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy yet bright, this one-skillet wonder will not disappoint.

Give it a try, and let a little taste of sunshine land right on your dinner table. 🍍✨