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 long-grain rice; 1 can (8 oz) pineapple chunks, with juice; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper; 1/2 cup diced onions; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Meals

When I developed this Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken and Rice, I aimed to create a dish that captures the essence of tropical vibes right in my kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and sweet pineapple creates an explosion of flavor that never fails to impress my family and friends. Plus, the convenience of cooking everything in just one pot makes cleanup a breeze, leaving me to enjoy my meal instead of stressing over dishes. This recipe has become a go-to for busy weeknights and gatherings alike!

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:37:14.794Z

Creating the perfect fusion of flavors can be a challenge, but this recipe was a delightful experiment that paid off. I wanted to incorporate pineapple into a savory dish, and the result was nothing short of spectacular. The sweetness of the pineapple combined with the richness of cream creates a unique taste that pairs brilliantly with chicken.

I learned a little trick when cooking the rice: adding the juice from the pineapple not only enhances the flavor but also gives it a gorgeous golden hue. This dish is now a staple in my home, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously creamy with a sweet and savory twist
Simple and quick preparation in just one pot
Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy family dinner

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken and Rice, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their quick cooking time and tenderness. Dicing the chicken into uniform pieces not only allows for even cooking but also ensures they blend seamlessly with the rice and sauce. If you prefer dark meat, thighs are a great alternative, bringing a richer flavor and keeping the dish moist.

Be mindful not to overcrowd the pot while cooking the chicken. Doing so can trap moisture and prevent browning. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to achieve those golden edges that enhance the dish's flavor profile.

Flavor Enhancements

The combination of soy sauce and pineapple juice creates a unique sweet and savory dynamic, crucial for the depth of flavor in this dish. Feel free to experiment with the soy sauce level, adjusting to your taste preference. Adding a splash of rice vinegar can also elevate the dish by bringing a slight tanginess that balances the creaminess.

For additional layers of flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil just before serving. These herbs will not only add freshness but also complement the tropical pineapple beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is excellent for meal prep, as the flavors deepen over time. You can make it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just reheat it over medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it appears too thick.

If you decide to freeze leftovers, ensure they are completely cooled before transferring to freezer-safe containers. This dish can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop for the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious meal:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup long-grain rice
1 can (8 oz) pineapple chunks, with juice
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
1/2 cup diced onions
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for a smooth experience!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your creamy one-pot pineapple chicken:

Cook Chicken

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the rice, chicken broth, pineapple chunks along with their juice, soy sauce, and the cooked chicken. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Add Cream

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir in the heavy cream and let it heat through.

Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm. Enjoy your delightful, creamy dish!

All done! You can now enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Pro Tips

For an added touch, consider topping the dish with toasted coconut flakes for extra texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy pineapple chicken dish with simple sides to keep the tropical vibe alive. A fresh salad with avocado, mixed greens, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness, while strips of grilled pineapple can enhance the tropical flavor even further.

To elevate the dinner experience, serve this dish with crusty bread or steamed green vegetables for an added texture contrast. These elements can balance the creamy dish, making the meal visually appealing as well.

Variations to Consider

You can switch up the protein in this recipe by using shrimp or tofu for a different take. If using shrimp, add them during the last 5-7 minutes of simmering to prevent overcooking. For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

For a bit of spice, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while sautéing the vegetables. This will give your dish a delightful kick that pairs nicely with the sweet pineapple.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it, although it may require a slight adjustment of cream to maintain the creaminess.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk for a lighter option or half-and-half, although it may affect the richness of the dish.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure that the soy sauce used is gluten-free, this dish can easily fit into a gluten-free diet.