🍍 Pineapple Chicken and Rice (One-Pan / Skillet)

Sweet, Savory & Mediterranean-Inspired Comfort Meal

📖 Description

This Pineapple Chicken and Rice is a vibrant one-pan meal that combines juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, aromatic herbs, and fluffy rice. Inspired by Mediterranean cooking, this version uses olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, and balanced seasoning for a naturally sweet and savory dish.

The pineapple adds brightness and natural sweetness, while the chicken and rice make it hearty and satisfying. Best of all — everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup easy and flavor deeper.

Perfect for busy weeknights or a colorful family dinner.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned in juice, drained)
1 cup long-grain rice (basmati works beautifully)
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
½ teaspoon turmeric (optional, for warm Mediterranean color)
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Juice of ½ lime or lemon (optional but recommended)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Season the Chicken
Toss chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
Sear
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chicken and cook 4–5 minutes until lightly golden (not fully cooked through). Remove and set aside.
Build Flavor
In the same pan, sauté onion and garlic for 2 minutes.
Add bell pepper and pineapple. Cook 2–3 minutes until slightly caramelized.
Add Rice
Stir in rice and turmeric. Toast for 1 minute.
Simmer
Pour in chicken broth. Return chicken to the skillet.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
Cover and cook for 15–18 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Finish
Remove from heat. Let rest 5 minutes.
Fluff rice gently with a fork.
Add fresh lemon/lime juice and sprinkle parsley on top.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side Greek cucumber yogurt salad
Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess
Pair with sparkling water infused with lemon

🌿 Mediterranean Benefits

✔ Lean protein
✔ Olive oil heart-healthy fats
✔ Balanced sweet + savory flavors
✔ One-pan wholesome meal
✔ Naturally dairy-free

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but increase broth to 2½ cups and cooking time to about 35–40 minutes.

Q2: Can I make it meal prep-friendly?

Absolutely. Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Q3: Can I make it spicy?

Add red chili flakes or a diced fresh chili for heat.

Q4: Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes — just drain it well to avoid excess sweetness.

Q5: Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of broth to keep it moist.