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: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks; 1 cup coconut milk; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I've always loved one-pot meals for their simplicity, and this creamy pineapple chicken and rice recipe stole my heart. The combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and creamy sauce creates a delightful balance of flavors. With just one pot to clean, I can enjoy a fuss-free dinner any night of the week. It's perfect for family gatherings or when I want a cozy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let me show you how to create this luscious dish with just a few easy steps.

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:22:11.165Z

When I first made this recipe, I wanted something quick yet flavorful for a dinner party. After experimenting with different ingredients, the combination of juicy chicken, vibrant pineapple, and creamy sauce emerged as a house favorite. I discovered that using coconut milk not only adds richness but also complements the pineapple perfectly, creating a tropical twist.

While cooking, I learned the importance of letting the rice absorb all the flavors from the chicken and pineapple. Don’t rush the simmering process; this is where the magic happens. The end result is a dish that is creamy, savory, and full of bright notes that surprise everyone at the table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Lush, creamy texture that complements the sweet pineapple.
One-pot convenience means easy cleanup and less time in the kitchen.
A delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors that's sure to impress.

      

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is key to achieving the creamy consistency in this dish. It not only adds a rich, velvety texture but also infuses the chicken and rice with a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the pineapple. For best results, opt for full-fat coconut milk as it provides a more luscious mouthfeel compared to light versions. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use unsweetened almond or cashew milk, but note that the creamy texture will be less prominent.

Make sure to stir the coconut milk well before adding it to the pot, as the cream can separate. When combined with the chicken broth, it creates a delightful sauce that envelopes the rice beautifully, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. When simmering, watch for the sauce to thicken slightly, which should take around 10-15 minutes, giving you that perfect coating on the rice.

Perfecting the Chicken

The chicken’s preparation is critical in achieving the best flavor and texture. When sautéing the diced chicken, make sure to spread it out in an even layer in the pot to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of browning. This step is essential for developing that golden, flavorful crust. If you’re using chicken thighs instead of breast, the cooking time may need to be slightly increased due to their thicker structure, typically around 8-10 minutes.

For those looking to cut back on time, rotisserie chicken can serve as an excellent shortcut. Just shred about 1 pound of the pre-cooked chicken into the pot after sautéing the onions and garlic. This not only shortens cooking time but also adds a depth of flavor without any additional cooking effort.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This creamy pineapple chicken and rice can be served as a complete meal on its own, but if you want to elevate your dining experience, consider accompanying it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. The crunchiness of the vegetables provides a nice contrast to the creamy dish and adds a refreshing balance to the meal.

For a fun twist, you could experiment by adding different vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas to the sauté process, incorporating them alongside the onions and garlic. Additionally, try tossing in some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, or a splash of lime juice right before serving to brighten the dish. These variations not only enhance the flavor but also provide extra nutrients.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious creamy chicken and rice:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
1 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are prepped before starting to streamline the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create this mouthwatering dish:

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Cook Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the chicken to the pot and add pineapple chunks, coconut milk, chicken broth, and soy sauce. Stir well to combine.

Add Rice

Add the cooked rice and mix until evenly incorporated. Allow to simmer for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious creamy one-pot pineapple chicken and rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding diced bell peppers or chili flakes for spice. You can also substitute chicken with shrimp for a different protein option.

Storage Tips

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is simple; just place it in a saucepan over low heat and stir occasionally until warmed through. If the dish seems too thick after refrigeration, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or coconut milk to loosen it up.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the creamy dish. Make sure it is in a freezer-safe container, and label it with the date. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Dietary Substitutions

If you need a gluten-free option, ensure that the soy sauce you use is labeled gluten-free or substitute with tamari sauce for a similar flavor profile. Those who are lactose intolerant can enjoy this dish worry-free, as it’s naturally dairy-free thanks to the coconut milk.

For a vegetarian or vegan version, swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Dice and marinate it in soy sauce before sautéing for added flavor. You can also replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth to maintain the depth of flavor in the sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but note that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu and vegetable broth.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients beforehand and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day.

→ How can I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.