Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup rice (preferably jasmine); 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice, drained; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ginger, minced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Home Cooking Favorites

When I first created this Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken And Rice, I was looking for a dish that combined comfort with a tropical twist. The delightful interplay of juicy pineapple and tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce is now a family favorite. I love how everything cooks together so seamlessly in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the hint of sweetness from the pineapple adds an unexpected burst of flavor that elevates this dish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:07:17.624Z

Every time I serve this dish, I’m reminded of the excitement it brings to the table. The creaminess pairs beautifully with the tangy pineapple, and it never fails to impress my guests. One tip I learned along the way is to let the rice absorb all the flavors for the last few minutes of cooking; it makes all the difference!

In my experience, the secret to achieving the perfect texture lies in the choice of rice. I always opt for jasmine rice because its fragrant aroma complements the dish beautifully. This recipe not only fills the belly but also warms the heart.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The unique combination of flavors that transports you to a tropical paradise
One pot cooking makes for easy cleanup and less hassle
A crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken and Rice plays a crucial role. The jasmine rice isn’t just a staple; its fragrant qualities complement the tropical pineapple beautifully, soaking up the rich flavors from the sauce. Using quality chicken breast ensures tender pieces that blend perfectly with the creamy texture, while heavy cream adds a luxurious mouthfeel that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the pineapple.

When it comes to the pineapple, don't overlook the importance of using chunks in juice, as the juice enhances the overall flavor without adding extra sugar. The soy sauce injects a savory depth into the dish, balancing out the sweetness. For a quicker dinner, pre-cooked chicken can be used, but be mindful to reduce cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking it.

Cooking Techniques to Elevate Your Dish

Sautéing the chicken until golden brown is more than just a step; it caramelizes the surface, creating rich flavors through the Maillard reaction. The browning process is vital, so make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken, which should sizzle upon contact. Keep an eye on the color; aim for a golden hue that adds complexity to the final dish.

Also, allow the mixture to simmer covered after adding in the rice and liquids. This retains moisture and heat, ensuring even cooking. If there’s any leftover liquid when the rice is done, let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes off the heat, allowing the rice to steam and absorb excess moisture for perfect texture.

Ingredients

For the Pineapple Chicken

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup rice (preferably jasmine)
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice, drained
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and sauté until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Aromatics

Stir in the garlic, ginger, and chopped green onions. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the rice, pineapple chunks, chicken broth, heavy cream, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Finish Up

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious and creamy one-pot meal!

Garnish with additional green onions if desired.

Pro Tips

Try substituting the chicken with shrimp for another delicious variation!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you’re preparing this dish in advance, consider cooking it fully and storing it in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out. Gently reheating on the stovetop over low heat is ideal; just stir occasionally until heated through to maintain creamy consistency.

For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to two months. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy pineapple chicken and rice is a versatile foundation for many sides. Consider pairing it with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Alternatively, steamed broccoli or snap peas add a nice crunch and fresh flavor to contrast the creaminess of the dish.

For a fun twist, serve this dish in a hollowed-out pineapple half for a tropical presentation! Not only does this make it visually stunning, but it also enhances the pineapple flavor. Chocolate cake or light sorbet can round off the meal beautifully, keeping the tropical theme alive throughout.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead and reheated. Just add a splash of chicken broth when reheating.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables.