Simple Weeknight Meal
This recipe is easy to make and works well for a busy night. It uses simple ingredients and cooks in one pan. You will get a warm, full meal with meat, rice, and fruit all in one dish.
INTRODUCTION
Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a bright and filling dish. It mixes tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and soft rice for a meal that many people like. You can make it fast on the stove. This recipe fits busy nights and calm weekend dinners alike. If you like other easy chicken dinners, you may also enjoy a slow cooker version like the slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe we link to for more comfort meal ideas.
This dish uses plain ingredients you likely have or can find at any store. The sweet fruit balances the salt and soy sauce. The rice soaks up flavors and makes the meal filling. You can change small parts of the recipe to match your taste or what is in your pantry.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this recipe because it is simple and fast. It cooks in one pan so you have less clean up. The sweet pineapple and savory chicken make a good contrast. Rice fills you up and makes the dish stretch to feed more people.
You can make it with basic tools and easy steps. The flavors are gentle for kids and strong enough for adults. It works as both a quick lunch and a full dinner. The recipe also stores well, so you can eat the leftovers the next day.
HOW TO MAKE Pineapple Chicken and Rice
This section explains how to cook the dish in clear steps. You will brown the chicken, cook the vegetables, then simmer everything with the rice and broth until done. Use medium heat and a pan with a tight lid to keep steam inside. Stir once or twice, but do not lift the lid too often while the rice cooks.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large pan with lid or a deep skillet with a tight-fitting lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fork for fluffing rice
- Serving spoon and bowls or plates
Ingredients You’ll Need :
1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes, 1 cup pineapple chunks, 1 cup rice, 1 cup chicken broth, 1 bell pepper, diced, 1 onion, diced, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, Salt and pepper to taste, Olive oil for cooking
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
- Add garlic and chicken cubes; cook until the chicken is browned.
- Stir in rice, chicken broth, pineapple chunks, and soy sauce.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff with a fork, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.
HOW TO SERVE Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Serve this dish warm right from the pan. Spoon it onto plates or into bowls. You can add fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or green onions on top for color and a fresh taste. A light squeeze of lime on top adds a bright touch.
For a simple meal, serve it alone. For a larger spread, add a side salad or steamed vegetables. It also pairs nicely with a small bowl of soup or clear broth for a starter.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Store leftover pineapple chicken and rice in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, warm it in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist. You can also microwave it in a covered dish for a minute or two, stirring halfway.
If you want to freeze it, let the dish cool fully first. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Note that the texture of pineapple can change after freezing, but the dish will still taste good.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Top with sliced green onions or chopped cilantro.
- Add a few sesame seeds for a small crunch.
- Serve with steamed broccoli or snap peas for a green side.
- Offer lime wedges so each person can add a squeeze.
- For extra heat, serve with hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
VARIATIONS
- Swap white rice for brown rice. Increase cooking time and add more broth as needed.
- Use shrimp instead of chicken for a quick change. For more shrimp ideas, see this easy shrimp and rice recipes.
- Stir in chopped cashews or almonds for crunch.
- Add a splash of pineapple juice or a teaspoon of honey for more sweetness.
- Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a different flavor. If you like teriyaki meals, try the dump and go teriyaki chicken for another idea.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen pineapple?
A: Yes. Frozen pineapple works fine. Thaw a bit or add it from frozen during the simmer. Keep an eye on liquid level.
Q: Can I use brown rice?
A: Yes, but brown rice needs more liquid and more time to cook. Follow the brown rice package directions and adjust broth.
Q: Is the dish spicy?
A: Not by default. You can add chili flakes or hot sauce if you like heat.
Q: Can I make this in a rice cooker?
A: You can brown the chicken and vegetables first, then combine everything in a rice cooker and cook until the rice is done. Check liquid ratios for your cooker.
Q: How do I know when the rice is done?
A: The rice is done when it is soft and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork to check texture.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Pineapple Chicken and Rice
You can chop the vegetables and cube the chicken a day ahead. Store them in separate containers in the fridge. If you want to save time on the day you cook, measure out the rice and broth ahead as well.
You can also cook the rice part ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, reheat the cooked rice with warmed chicken and pineapple in a pan. This can cut cooking time to a few minutes.
If you plan to freeze meals, make full portions and freeze in meal-sized containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently the next day.
Conclusion
This Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is a simple weeknight favorite that blends sweet and savory flavors. If you want a skillet variant that stays true to a simple one-pan method, try the Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet – Southern Plate for another take. For a version that adds crunchy texture and a stir-fry feel, see the Easy Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice | Dude That Cookz which gives a fried rice style. If you like a slightly richer side like coconut rice and a faster 30-minute plan, the 30 Minute Pineapple Chicken with Coconut Rice – Half Baked Harvest is a helpful guide to try next.
Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
- Add garlic and chicken cubes; cook until the chicken is browned.
- Stir in rice, chicken broth, pineapple chunks, and soy sauce.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff with a fork, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.