One Pot Pineapple Chicken Rice

Name: One Pot Pineapple Chicken Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, diced; 1 cup jasmine rice; 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Ideas

I love making One Pot Pineapple Chicken Rice because it's a delightful fusion of savory and sweet flavors that truly warms my heart. The combination of tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and fragrant rice creates a one-pot wonder that’s not only easy to prepare, but also fun to share. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, this dish makes weeknight dinners hassle-free and enjoyable. Plus, the tropical taste transports me to a sunny paradise with each bite—what's not to love about that?

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-15T01:01:35.822Z

When I first created this One Pot Pineapple Chicken Rice, I wanted to combine my love for tropical flavors with a comforting dish that the whole family would adore. The vibrant sweetness of the pineapple balances perfectly with the savory chicken and the fluffy rice. Each bite is a celebration!

One tip I learned is to use fresh pineapple for the best flavor and texture. Canned pineapple can work in a pinch, but nothing beats the juicy, vibrant notes of fresh pineapple. It really infuses the rice with a lovely sweetness during cooking!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful blend of savory chicken and sweet pineapple in every bite
Quick and easy cleanup with just one pot to wash
Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests with a tropical twist

Essential Techniques for Perfect Rice

Cooking rice in a one-pot dish can be tricky, but the key is to maintain the right liquid-to-rice ratio and heat level. For jasmine rice, a 1:1 ratio works wonders, but for this recipe, the addition of chicken broth provides flavor, meaning you still get the perfect texture. Make sure to bring the mixture to a boil before reducing it to low heat; this initial high temperature helps the rice absorb the flavors efficiently.

I recommend stirring the pot gently just once after adding the rice and pineapple. This prevents the rice from becoming overly sticky or mushy. If you see any liquid left after the cooking time, it’s best to leave the pot covered for an additional five minutes to allow the rice to steam and finish cooking. Trust the process—fluff the rice with a fork before serving to separate the grains beautifully.

Ingredient Insights

Using fresh pineapple not only adds natural sweetness but also contributes to the overall juiciness of the dish. The enzymatic properties of fresh pineapple help tenderize the chicken, resulting in a succulent texture. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, consider using canned pineapple in juice rather than syrup to maintain the dish's flavor profile, but be sure to reduce the amount of soy sauce slightly to balance the sweetness.

The choice of soy sauce matters, too. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you're watching your salt intake, as it won't compromise the savory flavor but will help you control the sodium levels. For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which bring similar umami depth without the gluten.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

One Pot Pineapple Chicken Rice is an excellent make-ahead meal. If you plan on enjoying it later, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent sticking.

For an impressive presentation when serving, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the dish and garnishing with cilantro alongside the green onions. This will enhance the tropical flair and provide a refreshing contrast to the savory elements in the dish. Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that bursts with flavor.

Ingredients

For the One Pot Pineapple Chicken Rice

1 lb boneless chicken thighs, diced
1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken thighs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Add Vegetables and Flavors

Stir in the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Combine Rice and Pineapple

Add the jasmine rice and pineapple chunks to the pot, stirring to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce. Bring to a gentle boil.

Cook the Rice

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

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious One Pot Pineapple Chicken Rice!

Pro Tips

To add an extra kick, consider including some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist. Also, if you want a more tropical vibe, you can add cashews or toasted coconut flakes as a topping!

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your chicken thighs seem tough after cooking, it might be due to overcooking. Always aim to have an internal temperature of 165°F when cooked; using a meat thermometer can help ensure perfect doneness without drying them out. Adjust cooking times depending on the thickness of the pieces you cut. Averages of 5-7 minutes for browning and 20 minutes of simmering should be sufficient for even thickness.

Should you encounter any excess liquid after cooking, it’s often a result of not letting the dish simmer long enough on low heat. Make sure the heat is appropriately reduced once it begins boiling, keeping the lid on throughout to maintain steam, which is essential for cooking the rice thoroughly.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to tailor the vegetable components to suit your preferences. Adding snap peas or carrots can introduce additional colors and flavors that complement the pineapple nicely. If you're looking to spice it up, consider adding red pepper flakes or even a splash of pineapple juice for an extra tropical kick.

If you're a fan of coconut, try stirring in some coconut milk into the broth. This addition will lend a creamy texture and a rich flavor profile, transforming the dish into a more decadent fare. Just remember to adjust the rice-to-liquid ratio slightly to accommodate the change.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but fresh pineapple provides a juicier and more vibrant flavor that's worth the effort!

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with cubed tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ Can I freeze the One Pot Pineapple Chicken Rice?

Yes, you can freeze it! Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat for a quick meal!