Pineapple Chicken And Rice Skillet

Name: Pineapple Chicken And Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cubed; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 bell pepper, diced (any color); 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love this Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet recipe! It's a vibrant and flavorful dish that effortlessly combines tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and juicy pineapple with fluffy rice. The sweet and savory elements create a delightful harmony that keeps me coming back for more. With just one pan and minimal prep, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, the tropical flavors remind me of warm, sunny days, making it an instant favorite in my home.

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:46:17.543Z

When I first made this dish, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly everything came together. The combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates a mouthwatering flavor that captivates everyone at the table. It’s not just about taste; the vibrant colors make it visually appealing too!

I discovered that searing the chicken first gives it a beautiful golden brown crust, sealing in the juices. Adding fresh ginger elevates the dish with a subtle warmth and depth of flavor that really ties everything together. Trust me, you’ll want this on your dinner rotation!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors
Easy one-pan meal for minimal cleanup
Perfect for meal prep or entertaining

      

Pineapple and Its Role

The pineapple is a star ingredient in this dish, infusing the chicken and rice with its unique sweetness and acidity. Fresh pineapple is often preferred due to its vibrant flavor, but canned pineapple chunks work just as well when drained properly. If you're using fresh, make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces to match the chicken and vegetables, allowing for even cooking and a perfect balance in every bite.

Besides adding flavor, the natural sugars in pineapple caramelize during cooking, enhancing the dish's overall taste profile. For a slight twist, consider using grilled pineapple for an additional smoky depth. This change not only complements the chicken beautifully but also adds a fun texture contrast against the tender rice.

Perfecting the Rice

Using cooked rice is key to this recipe's efficiency, making it a perfect option for leftover rice or meal prep. Ideally, you want the rice to be a day old, as this allows it to dry out slightly and prevents clumping when heated with the rest of the ingredients. If you’re starting with freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet for about 20-30 minutes to cool before adding it to the skillet.

When combining the rice with the chicken and vegetables, be sure to stir gently but thoroughly to avoid mashing the grains. A wooden spatula works wonders here, helping to break up clumps without damaging the texture. Cooking the mixture for an additional 3-5 minutes allows the flavors to meld together, creating a cohesive, delicious meal.

Customizing Your Skillet

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice Skillet is highly customizable. If you're looking to add more veggies, consider including ingredients like snap peas or broccoli, which can be added alongside the bell peppers. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, roughly 3-5 minutes, so they remain crisp yet tender. You can also increase the soy sauce or add a splash of sesame oil for a richer taste.

For a spicier kick, try incorporating red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños with the garlic and ginger. These adjustments bring a wonderful heat that balances with the sweetness of the pineapple. Don't hesitate to play with the flavors and make this dish your own; it lends itself beautifully to variations, ensuring that you can enjoy it multiple times with different twists!

Ingredients

For the skillet

1 lb chicken breast, cubed
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook for about 7-10 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, adding in the pineapple chunks and soy sauce. Mix everything thoroughly and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes until heated through. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking. You can also add your favorite vegetables for variation or switch the rice for quinoa for a healthier option.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time on a busy weeknight, you can prepare chicken, veggies, and pineapple in advance. Marinate the cubed chicken in soy sauce and ginger overnight in the refrigerator for added flavor infusion. This not only makes for a quick assembly but also enhances the meat's tenderness.

Cooked rice can also be portioned out in advance and refrigerated for up to four days. This way, when it’s time to cook, you simply need to heat the rice and combine it with your sautéed elements, making preparation a breeze.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the rice moist and prevent it from drying out. A microwave works well for quick reheating; simply cover the dish for even heat distribution.

If you'd like to store it for an even longer duration, consider freezing the cooked skillet. Portion it in freezer-safe containers, where it can last for about 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet until warmed through for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this flavorful skillet atop a bed of freshly chopped cilantro or green onions to enhance its vibrant colors and flavors. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nice touch and provides subtle crunchiness, making every bite a delight.

For an even heartier meal, pair this dish with a side of steamed broccoli or a refreshing cucumber salad. These sides not only complement the tropical flavors but also pack in additional nutrients, rounding out the meal beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice will work! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as brown rice usually takes longer to cook.

→ Can this recipe be made in advance?

Absolutely! You can make it ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and just reheat when ready to serve.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas, and ensure the soy sauce is vegetarian or vegan.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

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