Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a quick, comforting one-pan dinner that balances sweet pineapple, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice in a savory soy-infused sauce. With vibrant bell peppers and aromatic garlic, this dish delivers bold flavor with minimal prep — making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need something fast, satisfying, and family-friendly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience – Easy cooking and cleanup.
• Sweet & Savory Balance – Pineapple pairs beautifully with soy sauce.
• Quick Weeknight Dinner – Ready in under 45 minutes.
• Family-Friendly Flavor – Mild sweetness appeals to all ages.
• Customizable Ingredients – Swap veggies or adjust spice level.
• Protein-Packed Meal – Hearty and filling.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken & Rice

• 1 lb chicken thighs – Juicy and flavorful protein option.
• 1 cup rice (white or brown) – Absorbs all the savory juices.
• 2 cups chicken broth – Adds depth and richness.
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce – Provides savory umami (tamari for gluten-free).

For the Vegetables

• 1 cup pineapple (fresh preferred) – Adds natural sweetness.
• 1 cup bell peppers – Brings color and mild crunch (snap peas work too).

For Extra Flavor

• 3 cloves garlic – Adds aromatic depth.
• 1 tsp spices (such as red pepper flakes) – Adjust for desired heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Chicken
Heat a splash of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and sear for about 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown.

Add Vegetables
Stir in chopped bell peppers and pineapple. Cook briefly for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly softened.

Add Rice and Liquid
Stir in rice, soy sauce, garlic, and chicken broth. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute ingredients.

Simmer Until Tender
Cover the pan tightly with a lid. Reduce heat to low and let simmer undisturbed for about 30 minutes, until the rice is tender and liquid is fully absorbed.

Check for Doneness
Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If needed, cook a few extra minutes.

Rest and Serve
Leave covered for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Fluff rice gently and serve warm.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Use Fresh Pineapple – Brighter flavor and better texture.
• Don’t Stir While Simmering – Keeps rice fluffy.
• Add Garlic Early – For deeper flavor infusion.
• Adjust Spice Level – Increase or decrease red pepper flakes.
• Brown Rice Option – Extend cooking time slightly if using brown rice.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Resting Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450 calories per serving

Additional Nutrition (per serving):
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 850mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Vitamin A: 900 IU
Vitamin C: 60mg
Calcium: 30mg
Iron: 2mg

Perfect Pairings

• Steamed broccoli
• Asian cucumber salad
• Egg rolls
• Sparkling water with lime

Ideal Occasions

• Busy weeknight dinners
• Meal prep lunches
• Casual family meals
• Quick comfort food cravings

Storage & Serving Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months (rice texture may soften slightly).
• Garnish with green onions and a squeeze of lime for freshness.

Creative Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick – Add sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
• Tropical Twist – Stir in shredded coconut.
• Veggie Boost – Add snap peas or carrots.
• Teriyaki Style – Swap soy sauce with teriyaki sauce.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Rice undercooked – Add a splash of broth and cook longer.
• Too salty – Use low-sodium broth and soy sauce.
• Chicken dry – Avoid overcooking; use thighs for moisture.
• Too sweet – Reduce pineapple slightly or add more soy sauce.

Why This Recipe Works

Searing the chicken first locks in juices and builds flavor through caramelization. Pineapple’s natural sugars balance the savory soy sauce, creating a harmonious sweet-and-salty profile. Cooking the rice directly in seasoned broth allows it to absorb every layer of flavor, resulting in a cohesive, comforting one-pan meal.

Final Thoughts

Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a simple yet flavorful dinner solution perfect for busy nights. With its vibrant ingredients and balanced taste, it’s a dependable recipe that delivers comfort, color, and deliciousness in every bite.