Pineapple Chicken Rice Cheese (Print View)

Tender chicken and pineapple mixed with rice then baked under a golden melted cheese topping.

# Ingredient List:

→ Protein

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), cubed

→ Vegetables & Fruit

02 - 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned and drained
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Rice

06 - 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
07 - 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

→ Dairy

08 - 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
09 - 1/2 cup sour cream

→ Sauces & Seasonings

10 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
11 - 1 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
14 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

→ Garnish

15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with oil or cooking spray.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until lightly browned on the outside.
03 - Add chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened.
04 - Transfer sautéed chicken and vegetables to a large mixing bowl. Add uncooked rice, pineapple chunks, chicken broth, and sour cream. Mix thoroughly until rice is evenly distributed.
05 - Pour the combined mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
06 - Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
07 - Remove foil carefully. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top. Return to oven uncovered and bake for 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly and rice is tender.
08 - Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • One-dish wonder that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor
  • Perfect balance of savory chicken, sweet pineapple, and rich cheese
  • Naturally gluten-free and easy to adapt to dietary preferences
  • Ready in just an hour with straightforward steps anyone can follow
  • Great for meal prep and tastes even better as leftovers
02 -
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels, especially since cheese and seasonings add plenty of flavor
  • Shred your own cheddar cheese from a block for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties
  • Test rice doneness by tasting a grain from the center of the casserole before adding cheese—it should be tender with no hard center
  • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before cutting to help portions hold their shape better
  • Always verify ingredient labels if serving to someone with gluten sensitivities, as some broths and processed cheeses may contain hidden gluten
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