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, cubed; 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Classics

I absolutely love making Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken And Rice because it delivers delicious flavors with minimal cleanup. The sweetness of the pineapple perfectly complements the savory chicken, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. In just one pot, I can bring my family together for a delightful meal that feels special yet easy to prepare. This recipe combines fresh ingredients and spices for an unforgettable experience, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights and gatherings alike.

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:49:12.048Z

When I first tried blending chicken with pineapple, I was surprised at how well the flavors melded together. The pineapple adds a vibrant sweetness that balances out the richness of the creamy sauce. I've experimented with various spices, and I've found that a hint of ginger really elevates the taste, making each bite a joyful experience.

One of the things I love about this recipe is how it all cooks together in one pot, reducing mess and making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s easy to adjust the ingredients based on what I have on hand—sometimes I’ll throw in extra veggies for added nutrition. It’s a versatile dish that never disappoints!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich pineapple flavor melded with tender chicken
Creamy sauce that beautifully ties the dish together
One-pot wonder that saves time on cleanup

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Creamy One Pot Pineapple Chicken And Rice plays a crucial role in achieving the dish's overall balance of flavors. The chicken breast offers a lean protein base that absorbs the sweet and savory notes from the pineapple and seasonings. Opting for boneless, skinless chicken will save on prep time while ensuring that the meat remains tender. Additionally, using long-grain rice ensures that each grain cooks evenly, avoiding a mushy texture that can occur with different rice types.

The addition of heavy cream is key to creating the dish's rich, velvety texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with coconut milk, which will add a hint of tropical flavor that beautifully complements the pineapple. And if you're dairy-free, options like almond or oat milk can work, although they may not achieve the same creaminess. Always remember to adjust the seasoning if you make substitutions to maintain balance.

Cooking Techniques for Perfection

Sautéing the onion, garlic, and ginger at the beginning of the recipe is essential for building flavor. This technique releases the aromatic oils and enhances the savory base of the dish, making sure every bite is packed with umami. Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter. Look for the onions to become translucent, indicating they are ready for the chicken addition.

When simmering the dish, it's important to cover the pot to retain moisture and heat, promoting even cooking. After adding the cream, let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to marry the flavors and make the rice creamy. A visual cue here is the rice’s transformation to a glossy finish; if it appears dry, it may need a splash more broth or cream.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cubed
1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced

Spices and Seasonings

1 teaspoon ginger, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Brown the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Incorporate Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice, pineapple chunks, chicken broth, and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

Add Cream

After 20 minutes, stir in the heavy cream. Cover and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the rice is tender and creamy.

Serve

Give everything a final stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or green peas during the cooking process. You can also replace the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance its richness, or serve it with a side of steamed vegetables for added nutrition. For a more festive touch, consider garnishing each plate with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions.

To make it a complete meal, consider adding a side of garlic bread for soaking up that delicious creamy sauce. Alternatively, serving it in hollowed-out pineapple halves can add a fun presentation element, enhancing the tropical vibe of this dish.

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 chicken broth or cream to prevent the rice from drying out. Microwave until warm, stirring halfway through for even heating. If you prefer the stovetop, warm over low heat, adding extra liquid as necessary to reach desired creaminess.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked dish. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Keep in mind that while freezing may alter the texture slightly, the flavors will remain intact, allowing for a delightful meal anytime.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and possibly the amount of liquid used.

→ Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

→ Can leftovers be frozen?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

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