If you’re ready to take your taste buds on a mini vacation, this Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight is the ticket you didn’t know you needed. It’s loaded with juicy pineapple, tender bites of chicken, sweet peppers, and an irresistible coconut-infused rice that makes every bite sing with sunshine. Sweet, savory, and entirely comforting, this dish brings together every note you crave from island-inspired cuisine—all in one pan. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, the Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight will sweep you off your feet (and straight to paradise) in just under 40 minutes.

Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dish is how a handful of simple ingredients transform into something truly extraordinary, each one playing a starring role in building flavor and texture. Think vibrant bell pepper for color, creamy coconut milk for richness, and those sweet pops of pineapple that make the whole skillet glow.

Olive oil: The key to getting the chicken beautifully golden and infusing the base with richness.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking—perfect for soaking up all those tropical flavors.
Salt: Just enough to bring out the best in all the other ingredients.
Black pepper: Adds a touch of gentle heat without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Red bell pepper: For a sweet crunch and a pop of tropical color that makes your skillet shine.
Fresh pineapple (or canned, drained): The star of the show, adding bursts of juicy, tangy sweetness to every bite.
Garlic: Brings an aromatic punch and savory depth to the dish.
Uncooked jasmine rice: This fragrant grain cooks up fluffy and perfect, soaking in every drop of flavor.
Chicken broth: Makes the rice extra savory and keeps the whole skillet ultra-moist.
Coconut milk: For that irresistible creamy texture and classic tropical twist.
Soy sauce: Adds umami and balances the sweetness; use gluten-free if needed.
Honey: Just a touch for smooth, balanced sweetness that ties everything together.
Ground ginger: Lends a gentle warmth and hints of the islands.
Green onions (for garnish): Sliced thin, they add color and freshness at the finish.
Fresh cilantro (for garnish): Don’t skip it—those bright, herby notes are the perfect contrast to creamy, sweet flavors.

How to Make Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While that’s warming up, season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper—this quick step makes a world of difference in flavor. Add the chicken to the skillet and let it get beautifully golden, stirring occasionally so every bite is perfectly browned. This should take about 4 to 5 minutes.

Step 2: Bring on the Veggies and Pineapple

Next, toss in your diced red bell pepper, those juicy chunks of pineapple, and the minced garlic. Within a couple of minutes, you’ll smell that unmistakable tropical aroma—the perfect preview of what’s to come. Cook just until the pepper softens and the pineapple starts to caramelize for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Flavors

Now it’s time for the real magic. Pour in your uncooked jasmine rice, chicken broth, and coconut milk. Add the soy sauce, honey, and ground ginger, and give everything a gentle stir to combine. Bring the whole mixture to a boil—don’t walk away, this comes together quickly!

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Once you’re at a bubbling boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes. This is where the rice absorbs all that incredible coconut-pineapple-chicken goodness, turning the Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight into a flavorful, fluffy masterpiece. Check that the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed before moving on.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Remove the skillet from the heat and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Scatter on your green onions and cilantro just before serving so they stay fresh and vibrant. If you’re feeling extra tropical, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top is absolute magic.

How to Serve Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight

Garnishes

This dish is all about those finishing touches. A shower of fresh green onions and chopped cilantro is both classic and essential, offering freshness and color to contrast the creamy, sweet rice. For a playful twist, top with toasted coconut flakes or a squeeze of lime for extra zing—you’ll love the burst of flavor.

Side Dishes

Because Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight is packed with flavor (and already a satisfying one-pan meal), you don’t need a lot on the side. A simple green salad with citrus vinaigrette or a bowl of steamed edamame makes a refreshing partner. Roasted veggies or sauteed sugar snap peas keep things light and colorful while letting the main dish shine.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to truly impress, serve the Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight in hollowed-out pineapple halves for total island vibes. It’s also lovely spooned into individual bowls and topped with vibrant garnishes. For family-style dining, bring the pan straight to the table and let everyone dig in—the colors and aromas are simply irresistible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep the Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight tasting its best, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeks.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well: let it cool completely before spooning it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating

For perfect results, reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the rice’s fluffiness. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between each, until heated through. Just avoid overheating, as this can make the chicken a tad dry.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a juicy, flavorful alternative and are just as easy to cook. They add a touch more richness to the Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight, and you can use them interchangeably.

What can I substitute for coconut milk?

If you need to omit coconut milk, try using extra chicken broth with a splash of cream or regular milk for creaminess. You won’t get quite the same tropical flair, but the dish will still be comforting and delicious.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the chicken for cubed tofu, and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. The result will still be vibrant and packed with those signature sweet, savory, and tropical flavors.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight can be easily made gluten-free—just be sure to use a certified gluten-free soy sauce. Every other ingredient is naturally gluten-free!

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Brown rice is a hearty and wholesome swap, but keep in mind you’ll need to increase the simmering time and possibly add a bit more liquid to ensure it cooks through. The flavors will still pop against the subtle nuttiness of brown rice.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a burst of sunshine at the dinner table, this Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight can’t be beat. It’s colorful, cozy, and undeniably easy to make—even on a hectic weeknight. I hope it becomes a repeat request at your house, and that every tropical bite brings a smile. Try it soon and let your next meal become a mini-vacation!

Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Enjoy a taste of the tropics with this flavorful and easy-to-make Tropical Pineapple Chicken & Rice Delight. A one-pan dish that combines tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and creamy coconut milk for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasonings:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables and Fruits:

1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup diced fresh pineapple (or canned pineapple tidbits, drained)
2 cloves garlic, minced

Rice and Liquids:

1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup coconut milk
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Garnish:

2 green onions, sliced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly browned.
Add Vegetables and Rice: Add bell pepper, pineapple, and garlic to the skillet; cook for 2 minutes. Stir in rice, chicken broth, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, fluff rice with a fork, and garnish with green onions and cilantro before serving.