Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet

Name: Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions, for garnish

Highlighted under: International World Food Collection

When I first experimented with making a one-pan dish, I stumbled upon the idea of combining pineapple with chicken and rice. I was pleasantly surprised by how well these flavors harmonized. The sweet tang of pineapple pairs wonderfully with savory chicken, creating a dish that's both vibrant and satisfying. This skillet recipe not only simplifies my cooking process but also ensures that cleanup is a breeze. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-10T15:43:34.648Z

During one of my meal-prepping afternoons, I decided to throw together whatever I had in my pantry and fridge. The result was this Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet. I learned that combining sweet and savory ingredients can elevate a simple dish. The pineapple not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist.

Oh, and a crucial tip I discovered is to allow the rice to simmer gently with the chicken and pineapple. This not only creates a fantastic meld of flavors but also gives the rice that delightful pineapple essence. It's a fantastic dish that surprises with every bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory combination that tantalizes your taste buds
All-in-one cooking, making cleanup a breeze
Great for weeknight dinners or meal prep adventures

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken, it's important to ensure even browning. Start by cutting your chicken breast into uniform pieces about 1 inch thick, which will promote even cooking. When you add the chicken to the skillet, resist the urge to stir it too frequently; instead, let it sear on one side for 3-4 minutes until golden before flipping. This technique helps develop a delicious crust, enhancing the dish's overall flavor.

Using medium-high heat when cooking the chicken is crucial. If the heat is too low, the chicken will stew instead of sauté, resulting in a soggier texture. If you notice the chicken is browning too quickly, adjust the heat down slightly. A well-cooked chicken piece should be opaque throughout and have an internal temperature of 165°F.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you find yourself without chicken breast, feel free to substitute with boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier result. Thigh meat holds more moisture, which can add richness to the dish. Additionally, tofu or tempeh can work as excellent plant-based alternatives if you want to make this a vegetarian option. Just ensure you sauté them until they're nicely browned before adding the vegetables.

For those who prefer a spicier kick, consider adding fresh jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha while sautéing the vegetables. You can also adjust the sweetness level by using unsweetened pineapple and increasing the soy sauce, leading to a more savory flavor profile. Another great variation is to throw in some cashews or peanuts for added crunch and texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful meal:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions, for garnish

With your ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet:

Cook the Chicken

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

Add Vegetables and Pineapple

Stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Then, mix in the pineapple chunks and soy sauce.

Combine with Rice

Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir everything together, ensuring the rice is coated in the sauce and heated through. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet!

Your Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. You can also substitute the pineapple with mango for a tropical twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of this Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet is its make-ahead capabilities. You can prepare the chicken and vegetables a day in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, simply heat a skillet, toss in your prepped ingredients with the rice, and you’ll have dinner ready in 15 minutes. This not only saves time but also enhances the dish's flavors as they meld together overnight.

For leftovers, store the Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over medium heat to prevent the rice from drying out. If you find the rice is a bit stiff upon reheating, add a splash of water or broth to help steam it back to the right consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is excellent on its own, but you can elevate the meal with creative garnishes. Consider serving it over a bed of freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness or topping it with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch. You can also serve it with lime wedges on the side, allowing guests to squeeze fresh juice for a zesty kick.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider making this skillet as part of a tropical-themed dinner. Pair it with coconut-infused drinks or a mixed green salad with mango and avocado. This will not only complement the flavors of your Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet but also impress your guests with a cohesive and delightful culinary experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice works well but will require a bit more cooking time.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Pineapple Chicken Rice Skillet?

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple salad or steamed vegetables.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.