Pineapple Chicken And Rice Skillet

Name: Pineapple Chicken And Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown); 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained and juice reserved; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Cooking Made Easy

I absolutely love making Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet for my family. It’s such a colorful, vibrant dish that's as fun to prepare as it is to eat. The combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken, all cooked together with fluffy rice, creates a harmonious blend of flavors. Plus, it comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress friends, this recipe tick all the boxes and fills your home with delicious aromas!

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:07:09.997Z

When I first made Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it came together. The vibrant colors of the dish captivated me, and the aroma as it cooked made me even more excited to dig in. I learned that searing the chicken beforehand enhances its flavor, locking in moisture, while allowing the pineapple to caramelize as it cooks lends a delightful sweetness.

This dish has since become a family favorite, where the balance of savory and sweet hits just right. Pro tip: use fresh pineapple for an even burst of flavor, and don’t skip on the green onions for that added crunch!

Why You'll Love This Dish
The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
One-pan convenience for hassle-free cooking
Quick prep and cook time fit for busy weeknights

Unlocking Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients can drastically enhance the flavor of your Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet. For instance, opting for fresh, ripe pineapple instead of canned can impart a brighter sweetness that complements the dish beautifully. If you go this route, remember to cut your pineapple into similar-sized chunks for even cooking. Additionally, select a bell pepper that showcases your desired sweetness; yellow or red bell peppers are excellent choices due to their natural sugars.

The choice of onion also plays a crucial role in flavor development. Sweet onions can provide a subtle sweetness that balances the dish, while yellow onions offer a more savory profile. When sautéing, aim for the onions to be translucent and slightly caramelized, approximately 5 minutes over medium heat. This process not only develops their flavor but adds a pleasing texture that contrasts nicely with the chicken and pineapple.

Perfecting Texture and Consistency

A well-executed Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet should boast a variety of textures. The chicken needs to be cooked until golden brown for optimal flavor and tenderness; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Pay attention to the color change and ensure the meat is no longer pink inside. If you prefer a crispier texture, consider pan-searing the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of browning.

Incorporating the rice at the right moment ensures it absorbs the flavors without becoming mushy. Stirring in the rice after combining the chicken and vegetables allows it to soak up the luscious juices, enhancing its flavor profile. Aim to mix everything gently with a spatula to prevent breaking the rice grains, and heat through for just an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is evenly warmed and aromatic.

Customizing and Storing Your Skillet Meal

This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing for various ingredient swaps to meet dietary needs or preferences. For a lighter alternative, consider substituting chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs, which offer more flavor and juiciness. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, swap out the chicken for chickpeas or tofu, ensuring to adjust the cooking time accordingly for these alternatives.

Leftover Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet can be swiftly stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for meal prep. You can also freeze individual portions, perfect for quick lunches or dinners. To reheat, simply microwave for a few minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out or reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. This dish retains its flavor remarkably well, making it a healthy, time-saving choice throughout the week.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious meal:

For the Pineapple Chicken

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained and juice reserved
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon ground ginger
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure to adjust the flavors as per your taste preference!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until cooked through and golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet, add the drained pineapple, soy sauce, ground ginger, and the reserved pineapple juice. Stir to combine everything and let it cook for another 5 minutes.

Add the Rice

Gently fold in the cooked rice. Stir well to combine all ingredients, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot.

Enjoy your savory and sweet Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or fresh chili to the skillet while cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet is a complete meal that shines on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the flavors beautifully and provide a fresh contrast to the sweet and savory chicken dish.

For a tropical twist, consider adding some toasted coconut flakes on top before serving. They will add a delightful crunch and heighten the pineapple’s flavor profile. You could even serve it in hollowed-out pineapple halves for a fun presentation that’s perfect for gatherings and special occasions.

Variations to Try

Experimenting with different spices can take your Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet in exciting new directions. For instance, adding a teaspoon of curry powder can introduce a warm, aromatic flair to the dish. Alternatively, for a spicy kick, consider incorporating some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the sautéing step.

If you're in the mood for a more Asian-inspired version, try adding water chestnuts for crunch and substituting soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a richer flavor. Fresh basil or cilantro sprinkled on top right before serving can also provide a refreshing herbal note that elevates the dish’s overall appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, pork, or tofu for a different twist.

→ How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use brown rice instead of white rice and add more vegetables like broccoli or snap peas.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients a day in advance to save time.

→ What can I serve with Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet?

Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.