Pineapple Chicken And Rice One Pot

Name: Pineapple Chicken And Rice One Pot
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup jasmine rice; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Cooking Made Easy

I absolutely love making Pineapple Chicken and Rice in a single pot! This dish brings together tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and fragrant rice for a satisfying meal that’s rich in flavor yet easy to prepare. The sweet-tart pineapple not only adds a delightful twist but also complements the savory chicken perfectly. Cooking everything in one pot not only saves time on cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights when I crave something delicious and comforting.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:07:15.736Z

When I first tried this Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to transform everyday ingredients into a flavorful meal. The combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates a perfect harmony on the palate. I love that the rice absorbs all the delicious juices, making every bite a flavor explosion.

A special tip I discovered is to use fresh pineapple for a more vibrant flavor – it truly elevates the dish! Plus, the one-pot method means less fuss and fewer dishes, which is always a win in my kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
One pot means less cleanup and hassle
Quick and easy preparation makes it great for busy nights

Importance of Ingredients

The chicken thighs in this recipe play a crucial role in providing a rich, tender texture compared to chicken breast. Their higher fat content helps to keep the meat moist during cooking, making each bite succulent. It's important to brown them well at the beginning, as this caramelization contributes depth to the flavor profile of the dish. If you're short on time, feel free to use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken; just add it in with the rice mixture to heat through.

Choosing the right rice is essential for this dish as well. Jasmine rice, with its nutty aroma and slight stickiness, is perfectly suited to absorb the sweet and savory juices from the dish. If you need a substitute, basmati rice works as an alternative, although it may yield a slightly drier texture. Be sure to maintain the liquid-to-rice ratio for optimal results; if you opt for a different variety, adjust the broth quantity accordingly to ensure proper cooking.

Cooking Techniques

When sautéing the onion and garlic, ensure you cook them just until the onion becomes translucent. This indicates that they have released their flavors without burning, which can lead to a bitter taste. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot during this process; these bits are packed with flavor and will enhance the overall taste of your dish. Keep the heat at medium to avoid quick browning of the garlic.

Simmering at low heat is also crucial. Once you bring the mixture to a gentle boil, immediately reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. This creates a steam effect which helps the rice cook evenly while locking in moisture. If, after 25 minutes, the rice is still firm or the liquid hasn’t fully absorbed, continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes; just ensure to keep it covered to trap the steam.

Ingredients

For the main dish

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before you start for an easy cooking experience!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken in the pot for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from pot and set aside.

Cook the aromatics

In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

Combine ingredients

Return the chicken to the pot, then add the jasmine rice, pineapple chunks, chicken broth, and soy sauce. Stir well to combine.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.

Serve

Once the dish is cooked, fluff the rice with a fork. Serve warm, garnished with sliced green onions.

Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and pineapple juice for at least 30 minutes before cooking. You can also add bell peppers or snap peas for extra veggies.

Serving Suggestions

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice dish is versatile when it comes to serving. It can stand alone as a hearty meal, but you can also enhance it by pairing it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a pop of color and flavor. A light squeeze of lime before serving adds a refreshing zing that complements the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully. For an extra burst of flavor, consider drizzling some sweet chili sauce over the top.

If you're looking to impress at a dinner party, serve this dish in a large bowl garnished with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a slight crunch that contrasts with the tender chicken and rice. For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut on top for a delightful textural contrast and extra flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing Pineapple Chicken and Rice ahead of time can be a real time-saver on busy weeknights. You can marinate the chicken with the soy sauce and seasonings a few hours in advance or even the night before to deepen the flavor. Additionally, chopping the vegetables ahead of time can cut down on prep time significantly. Just ensure to keep everything stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Regarding leftovers, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent the rice from drying out and microwave in intervals, stirring occasionally to promote even heating. If you're considering freezing, I recommend that you freeze it in individual portions. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What can I substitute for chicken thighs?

You can use chicken breasts or tofu for a lighter option, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is it safe to use canned pineapple?

Absolutely! Just ensure you drain it well before adding it to the pot.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.