Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet

Name: Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced; 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned; 1 cup rice (white or brown); 1 onion, chopped; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Heartfelt Meals

I absolutely love making Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet! This dish has become a weeknight favorite in our household, as it's not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. The sweet and tangy pineapple contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken and fragrant rice. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup for me after a long day. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s sure to please the entire family, this is the one I turn to time and again. Give it a try—you won't be disappointed!

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-02-10T17:41:36.522Z

When I first made this Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The combination of juicy nuggets of chicken with a burst of tropical pineapple created a harmonious flavor profile that was both comforting and exciting. I remember my family gathering around the table, eager to dig in after just 25 minutes of cooking, and the smiles on their faces were priceless.

One key tip I discovered is to let the rice rest covered for a few minutes after cooking. This helps all the flavors meld beautifully, and the rice becomes fluffy and perfectly cooked. I often play with the vegetables I add, like bell peppers or snap peas, to keep it fresh and interesting each time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors
Quick and easy preparation in a single skillet
Healthy ingredients that the whole family will enjoy

Preparation Tips

To ensure your Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet cooks evenly, make sure to dice the chicken into uniform pieces, about 1-inch cubes. This size helps in achieving a consistent cook throughout, allowing the chicken to brown adequately while remaining juicy. A good non-stick or cast iron skillet is ideal for this recipe, as it prevents sticking and aids in brown bits forming, which can add flavor to your dish.

When choosing rice, remember that cooking times may vary between white and brown rice. If you opt for brown rice, which adds nuttiness and fiber, your cooking time will extend by about 10-15 minutes. Hence, if using brown rice, ensure you reduce the heat and cover the pan properly to retain moisture, allowing the rice to absorb the liquids thoroughly.

Ingredient Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. If you don’t have pineapple on hand, consider swapping it with mango chunks or bell peppers for a different yet equally delicious flavor profile. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the taste but also contribute to a more colorful presentation. Don’t hesitate to experiment with other vegetables like peas or carrots, which can be added alongside the onion for added nutrition.

For a spicier twist, you can incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken. This addition would offer a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple and balance the savory chicken. If you're looking for a lighter version, swapping the chicken for tofu can make this dish vegetarian-friendly while still holding the sweet and savory profile.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet is a great make-ahead meal; you can prepare a larger batch and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the dish and prevent it from drying out. You can easily reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.

For serving, this dish pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables to complement the sweetness of the pineapple. A squeeze of fresh lime juice on top just before serving brightens flavors beautifully. Additionally, if you want a touch of creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded coconut makes an exciting finish that elevates the dish even further.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned
1 cup rice (white or brown)
1 onion, chopped
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to chop the vegetables uniformly for even cooking.

Preparation Steps

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the Onions and Rice

Stir in the chopped onion and rice, cooking until the onion is translucent. This should take about 3 minutes.

Incorporate Liquid and Pineapple

Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, then add the pineapple chunks. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Enjoy your delightful Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet warm!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snow peas. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also enhance the dish's flavor.

Cooking Techniques

One key technique in this recipe is the initial browning of the chicken. You want to achieve a golden-brown exterior, which should take about 5-7 minutes over medium heat. This process not only develops flavor through the Maillard reaction but also creates caramelization that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Make sure not to overload the skillet to avoid steaming the chicken instead of browning it.

Equally important is the moment you add the liquids. When you incorporate the chicken broth and soy sauce, make sure to scrape any brown bits off the bottom of the skillet. These bits, called fond, are packed with flavor and will contribute to a rich broth that infuses into the rice as it cooks. Stirring gently will ensure that nothing sticks, while also helping to integrate all flavors together.

Adjusting to Dietary Needs

If you're looking to make this dish gluten-free, simply replace soy sauce with tamari, which offers a similar taste without gluten. This substitution allows the savory component to remain while accommodating gluten sensitivities. Additionally, you can experiment with coconut aminos, which add a slightly sweeter profile that pairs beautifully with the pineapple.

For those watching their calorie intake, consider using a non-stick cooking spray instead of olive oil for sautéing the chicken. This will significantly lower the fat content while keeping the chicken from sticking to the pan. Furthermore, you could substitute half of the rice for cauliflower rice to cut down on carbs, all while retaining that satisfying texture in this one-pan dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, just remember that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to increase the liquid and cooking time.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients and store them in the fridge. Cook just before serving.

→ What vegetables can I add?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor!