1. Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes! Brown rice works great in Pineapple Chicken and Rice , but it takes longer to cook — around 35–40 minutes. You may need to add extra broth or water (about ½ cup more) to keep the rice tender and prevent it from drying out.

2. Is fresh or canned pineapple better for this recipe?

Fresh pineapple gives the dish a brighter, more natural sweetness and a slightly tangy bite. However, canned pineapple (in juice, not syrup) is a convenient and delicious alternative when you’re short on time. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid.

3. Can I make Pineapple Chicken and Rice ahead of time?

Absolutely. This recipe reheats wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth in a skillet to keep the rice moist and fluffy.

Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe – Best One-Pan Dinner

Name: Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing and flavor; 1 small onion, diced – adds sweetness and aroma; 2 cloves garlic, minced – for depth of flavor; 1 cup jasmine rice – provides a fragrant, fluffy base; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth – to cook the rice and enhance flavor; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned) – adds sweetness and tropical flair; 2 tablespoons soy sauce – gives a rich umami balance; 1 tablespoon honey – provides natural sweetness; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger – for a warm, aromatic note; 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) – adds mild heat; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced – for garnish and freshness; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped – adds brightness; Salt and pepper, to taste – enhances overall flavor

Description

Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a sweet and savory one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and fragrant jasmine rice cooked in a flavorful soy-honey sauce. This tropical-inspired dish comes together in under 40 minutes and delivers a perfect balance of comfort and freshness, ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing and flavor
1 small onion, diced – adds sweetness and aroma
2 cloves garlic, minced – for depth of flavor
1 cup jasmine rice – provides a fragrant, fluffy base
1 1/2 cups chicken broth – to cook the rice and enhance flavor
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned) – adds sweetness and tropical flair
2 tablespoons soy sauce – gives a rich umami balance
1 tablespoon honey – provides natural sweetness
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger – for a warm, aromatic note
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) – adds mild heat
1/4 cup green onions, sliced – for garnish and freshness
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped – adds brightness
Salt and pepper, to taste – enhances overall flavor

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Stir in the jasmine rice, coating each grain with the oil and aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ground ginger, and chili flakes (if using) to make the sauce.
Return the cooked chicken and add pineapple chunks to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your Pineapple Chicken and Rice hot!

Notes

Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor, but canned pineapple works well when drained.
Adjust the soy sauce or honey for your preferred sweet-salty balance.
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
For a gluten-free version, replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Asian Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1 1/2 cups)
Calories: 400 kcal
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 720 mg
Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 30 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg