Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet

Name: Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; salt and pepper to taste; green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Freshly Wholesome

I love making this Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet for a quick weeknight dinner that bursts with flavor. The combination of juicy pineapple, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice creates a delightful sweet and savory harmony that my family can't resist. In just under 30 minutes, I can whip up a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also brings a touch of tropical sunshine to our dinner table. It's one of those meals that feels special without requiring a lot of fuss, making it a favorite in my weekly rotation.

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-02-10T23:41:37.361Z

When I first tried this Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet, I was amazed at how well the flavors complemented each other. The sweet pineapple contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken, creating a perfect balance. I recommend using fresh pineapple, as it adds a bright, juicy quality that canned varieties can't match. Plus, the vibrant colors make the dish visually appealing, enticing everyone to dig in!

One of my favorite tips for this recipe is to marinate the chicken briefly in soy sauce before cooking. This enhances the chicken's flavor, infusing it with a savory depth that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the pineapple. Trust me; it makes a world of difference and elevates this dish to a whole new level!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory blend that satisfies any craving
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights
Colorful and vibrant dish that brightens up your meal

Mastering the Rice

Cooking rice can be tricky, especially if you want it fluffy and perfectly integrated into the dish. For this skillet, use jasmine rice for its fragrant aroma, which pairs beautifully with the sweetness of pineapple. Make sure to rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, preventing it from becoming gummy during cooking. This takes just a few minutes but elevates your dish significantly.

When adding the rice to the skillet, ensure the heat is at medium-high until it starts to sizzle. Stir vigorously to coat the grains with oil and lock in flavor, around 1-2 minutes. This helps prevent the rice from clumping and enhances the overall texture. After incorporating the broth, remember to check for a gentle boil—this activates the starch in the rice and promotes even cooking.

Choosing Your Chicken

Selecting the right chicken is essential for a tender texture in this dish. I recommend using chicken breasts for their mild flavor and quick cooking time; however, feel free to substitute with boneless thighs if you prefer a richer taste. Keep in mind that thighs may require a few extra minutes to cook through, approximately 8-10 minutes, depending on the size.

If you find yourself short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken. Simply add the chicken in with the rice and broth, reducing the simmering time since it only needs to heat through, around 5 minutes. This can be a fantastic way to save time while achieving the flavor-packed outcome you're aiming for.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet is perfect for meal prep. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture, microwaving or reheating on the stovetop until warmed through. This ensures the rice stays fluffy and does not dry out during reheating.

For serving, consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice to enhance the dish's tropical vibe. Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. If you're in the mood for a twist, try adding cashews or snow peas for extra crunch and depth of flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
green onions for garnish

Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet:

Sauté the Chicken

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

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables have softened.

Incorporate Rice and Broth

Add the jasmine rice to the skillet, stirring it together with the chicken and vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, bring the mixture to a boil.

Mix in Pineapple

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked. Stir in the fresh pineapple during the last couple of minutes.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Enjoy your one-pan meal that's both tasty and easy to clean up!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding some chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before serving. You can also customize this dish by adding other vegetables like peas or carrots based on what you have on hand.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with other fruits if pineapple isn't your favorite. Mango, for example, offers a similar sweetness and pairs wonderfully with chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so you add the mango during the last couple of minutes, as it doesn't need as much time to heat through.

If you're looking to lighten the dish, swap the chicken breast for tofu or a plant-based protein, which will absorb the flavors of the dish similarly. Marinate the tofu in soy sauce before cooking for added depth. Just note, you'll need to press the tofu to remove excess moisture for optimal texture.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your rice hasn't cooked properly and is still crunchy after the suggested simmering time, don't panic. Simply add a little more broth or water—about 1/4 cup at a time—and continue to simmer with the lid on, checking every few minutes until the rice reaches your desired tenderness.

Another common mistake could be losing the sweetness from the pineapple if cooked too long. Add it towards the end of cooking, as indicated, to retain its fresh taste and vibrant color. If you happen to overcook it, try adding a touch of honey or brown sugar to bring back some of the sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately until you're ready to cook.

→ Can I substitute the chicken with tofu?

Yes, tofu works well as a vegetarian option! Just be sure to press it to remove excess moisture before cooking.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.