Pineapple Lime Chicken Rice Skillet

Name: Pineapple Lime Chicken Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup rice, uncooked; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1/2 cup onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lime, juiced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Cuisines Without Borders

I absolutely love making this Pineapple Lime Chicken Rice Skillet when I need a quick and satisfying meal. The vibrant combination of flavors from the pineapple and lime really elevates this dish, and it brings a tropical touch to my dinner table. Plus, it's a one-skillet wonder, meaning fewer dishes to wash afterward! In just about 30 minutes, you'll have a flavorful, colorful meal that's perfect for weeknights or whenever you're craving something delicious and easy to prepare.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-16T10:32:36.860Z

When I started experimenting with flavors in my skillet meals, I stumbled upon the fantastic combination of pineapple and lime. The acid from the lime enhances the sweetness of the pineapple and brings out the savory notes of the chicken beautifully. It was a revelation for our family dinners, where we often seek new and exciting meals.

One tip I discovered is to marinate the chicken in lime juice for a few minutes before cooking; it adds an extra layer of tang. The result? A juicy, flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with the fluffy rice and vibrant, sautéed vegetables. I can't recommend it enough!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavors that awaken your palate
Quick, easy, and ideal for busy weeknights
A delightful combination of sweetness and savory

Maximizing Flavor with Marinades

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in this recipe as it infuses the meat with zesty lime flavor which complements the sweetness of the pineapple. I recommend using freshly squeezed lime juice for the best taste, but bottled lime juice can work in a pinch. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes helps to tenderize the meat and enhances flavor absorption. If you have more time, an hour in the fridge can elevate the dish even further.

For those looking to spice things up, consider adding cumin or chili powder to the marinade. This introduces a warm, earthy note that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the pineapple. Just a pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a delightful kick without overpowering the dish. Remember to balance the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Perfecting Rice Texture

Choosing the right rice is essential for this dish. Long-grain white rice or Jasmine rice gives a fluffier texture compared to short-grain types, which tend to be stickier. Additionally, rinsing the rice before cooking removes excess starch and prevents clumping. This small step enhances the final texture, allowing each grain to absorb the fruity and savory flavors without turning mushy.

Monitoring the cooking process is vital; after adding the rice and broth, keep an eye on it. Once you bring it to a boil, swiftly cover it and reduce the heat to low. Allowing it to simmer gently for about 15 minutes ensures perfect doneness. If you find the rice isn’t quite cooked through but the liquid has evaporated, add a splash more broth, cover it again, and let it sit. This method prevents overcooking and helps achieve that ideal fluffy texture.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Pineapple Lime Chicken Rice Skillet can be served straight from the skillet, making it a stunning centerpiece on your dinner table. I love sprinkling fresh cilantro on top right before serving; it adds a vibrant color and fresh taste. Pair it with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor. For a complete meal, you can serve it alongside a light green salad or steamed vegetables for a refreshing contrast.

If you have leftovers, cool the skillet to room temperature, then store the dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This meal reheats wonderfully in the microwave; just add a splash of chicken broth before heating to keep it moist. While I don't recommend freezing this dish due to the texture of the rice, the remaining ingredients can be frozen separately, allowing you to whip up a quick meal later.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a seamless experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup rice, uncooked
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lime, juiced
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Having everything ready to go makes the cooking process smoother!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Pineapple Lime Chicken Rice Skillet:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine diced chicken breast, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for 10 minutes for better flavor.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper, sautéing until they are soft, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the uncooked rice, chicken broth, and pineapple chunks. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.

Serve and Enjoy

Fluff the rice, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot. Enjoy the tropical flavors!

This dish is so flexible; feel free to adjust the vegetables according to your preference.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the skillet while cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a different protein, boneless pork or shrimp can be excellent substitutes for chicken in this recipe. Both options can bring distinct flavors to the dish; simply adjust cooking times, cooking shrimp for about 3-5 minutes until they turn pink, and pork until it's no longer pink in the center. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh, marinating them in the same lime mixture and sautéing until golden.

When it comes to vegetables, feel free to customize based on what you have. Snap peas, zucchini, or carrots can add texture and blend well with the tropical flavors. Adding a blend of colors not only enhances the dish's visual appeal but also offers different nutrients, making it a versatile option for various dietary needs.

Scaling the Recipe

For larger gatherings, this recipe can easily be scaled up. Just double or triple the ingredients, utilizing a larger skillet or a Dutch oven for ample cooking space. If making a larger batch, ensure not to overcrowd the pan when sautéing the chicken and vegetables, as this can lead to steaming rather than browning. It’s crucial to cook in batches if necessary for that perfect golden color on the chicken.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two people, you can halve the recipe. The cooking times may remain the same, particularly for the rice, so it’s important to check for doneness. Another option is to prep the full recipe and then refrigerate or freeze leftovers for a convenient meal option later in the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

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

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use tofu for a vegetarian option or shrimp for a seafood twist.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if reheating from frozen.