Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned; 1 cup rice, uncooked; 1 can coconut milk (13.5 oz); 1 cup chicken broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Homestyle Happiness

I love making Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken And Rice when I'm short on time but craving something delicious. The combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and creamy sauce makes for a comforting dish that the whole family enjoys. In just one pot, you can create a flavorful meal that is both satisfying and easy to clean up afterwards. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and is sure to be a hit at the table. Let me show you how to make this delightful dish effortlessly!

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:37:09.393Z

When I first experimented with combining pineapple and chicken, I was pleasantly surprised by the harmony of flavors. I took it a step further by adding a creamy sauce, and the result was nothing short of divine. The key is to use fresh pineapple, which brings a natural sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the savory chicken.

Another tip I found helpful is to let the dish simmer for a little longer to really let the flavors meld. It not only enhances the taste but also makes the rice incredibly fluffy. I've made this dish numerous times, and it's always received rave reviews!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
Creamy texture that complements the chicken and rice
One pot means easy clean-up and minimal fuss

Ingredient Insights

The star of this Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken And Rice is undoubtedly the pineapple. Its natural sweetness not only balances the savory elements but also infuses the dish with a refreshing tropical flavor. If you're using canned pineapple, opt for the unsweetened variety to prevent overpowering the other flavors. Fresh pineapple adds a vibrant touch and can be diced right before adding it to the pot, ensuring you retain that juicy texture.

Chicken breast is chosen for its lean profile and quick cooking time, making it ideal for weeknight meals. Ensure you cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces to achieve uniform cooking. If you're looking for a heartier protein or a twist on the recipe, consider using thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Both will still provide ample flavor and texture when cooked properly with the other ingredients.

Technique Tips

Sautéing the chicken initially helps to seal in its juices and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Ensure your pot is preheated before adding the chicken; it should sizzle as it hits the pan. This browning process not only develops flavor but adds a bit of texture to the chicken. If the pot seems too crowded, work in batches to avoid steaming the chicken rather than searing it.

Properly measuring your liquid ratio is crucial for perfect rice. When adding coconut milk and chicken broth, a total of 2 cups of liquid per cup of rice usually works best. Adjust the liquid slightly if you're using brown rice, as it requires more water and a longer cooking time. Always taste a bit of the rice towards the end to ensure it has absorbed enough moisture without becoming mushy.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before starting to make the process smoother.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned
1 cup rice, uncooked
1 can coconut milk (13.5 oz)
1 cup chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking for the best texture.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious one-pot meal.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until fully cooked, approximately 7-10 minutes.

Add Aromatics

Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the uncooked rice, pineapple chunks, coconut milk, chicken broth, and soy sauce to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients well.

Simmer

Bring to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Serve

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

Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken in soy sauce and ginger beforehand. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less pineapple according to your taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish can easily be prepped ahead of time, making it ideal for a busy week. You can chop the vegetables and proteins and store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just be sure to keep the pineapple separate until you’re ready to combine everything, as it can lose its freshness if cut too early.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pot to keep the rice moist. Warm it gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can enjoy it as is or add a touch more coconut milk for an extra creamy texture.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While this recipe shines as is, there are numerous ways to adapt it. Consider adding vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots during the sauté phase for additional color and nutrition. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or curry powder to introduce a spicy twist.

For a delightful garnish, pair this dish with a fresh cucumber salad or a simple green salad dressed in lime juice. This will complement the rich creaminess of the chicken and rice and bring a contrasting crunch to every bite. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of steamed greens to elevate the dish even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

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

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

→ What can I use instead of coconut milk?

You can substitute with heavy cream or any plant-based milk, but it will alter the flavor profile.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce, this recipe can be made gluten-free.