Name: One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup coconut aminos; 1/2 cup full fat canned coconut milk (shaken); 2 tablespoons honey; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 cup 100% pineapple juice (from canned pineapple); 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil; 1 (13.5 ounce) can full fat coconut milk (shaken); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1 1/2 cups uncooked jasmine rice (or long grain white rice); 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks in 100% pineapple juice; To garnish: cilantro, chopped cashews, or toasted coconut

If you’ve ever dreamed of a vibrant, tropical meal that feels like a vacation on a plate, then you’re going to fall totally in love with this One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe. This dish features succulent chicken thighs marinated in a luscious blend of pineapple juice and coconut aminos, cooked together with fragrant coconut-infused jasmine rice and juicy pineapple chunks, all in one pot for effortless cooking and maximum flavor. Every bite bursts with sweet, savory, and tropical notes that make weeknight dinners feel extraordinary and special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Even though this One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe seems layered with flavors, it relies on simple, straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one adds depth and character to the dish — from the creamy coconut milk that gives the rice its silky texture to the honey and sesame oil that add just the right touch of sweetness and nuttiness.

1/2 cup coconut aminos: A great soy-free alternative that adds a subtle umami and sweetness to the marinade.
1/2 cup full fat canned coconut milk (shaken): Adds creaminess and a tropical richness essential to both the chicken and rice.
2 tablespoons honey: Brings a gentle natural sweetness to balance the savory and tangy notes.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Provides a fragrant and savory underpinning that lifts the whole dish.
2 teaspoons sesame oil: Brings a toasty, nutty flavor that complements the tropical ingredients well.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly without overwhelming.
1/4 cup 100% pineapple juice: Boosts the tropical freshness and helps tenderize the chicken.
1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs: Juicy, tender protein that soaks up the lovely marinade flavors.
1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil: For a nice sear on your chicken before slow cooking.
1 (13.5 ounce) can full fat coconut milk (shaken): Creamy base to cook the rice, making it irresistibly tender and fragrant.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a straightforward garlic flavor to the rice without overpowering it.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the rice’s flavor profile with a subtle savory note.
1 teaspoon ground ginger: Gives a warm, slightly spicy tropical twist that’s perfect here.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential to balance all the flavors in the rice equally.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: Just a hint to give dimension and balance to the sweetness.
1 1/2 cups uncooked jasmine rice (or long grain white rice): Fluffy, fragrant rice ideal for absorbing the coconut and pineapple flavors.
1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks in 100% pineapple juice: Sweet bursts of juicy pineapple folded through the rice and chicken for that iconic Hawaiian vibe.
To garnish: cilantro, chopped cashews, or toasted coconut: Fresh herbs and crunchy textures that elevate the presentation and flavor.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together the coconut aminos, coconut milk, honey, minced garlic, sesame oil, kosher salt, and pineapple juice. Place your boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a shallow dish or large resealable bag and pour the marinade over, making sure every piece gets coated in this tropical magic. Let the chicken soak up all those vibrant flavors for at least one hour in the fridge — this step is key to infusing every bite with juicy, fragrant goodness.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

When you’re ready, heat the olive or avocado oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade for later) and sear the thighs on each side until they develop a gorgeous, golden crust, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in those juices and adds beautiful caramelized flavor, setting the stage for the rest of the cooking process.

Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Pineapple Rice Base

Once the chicken is nicely browned, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the uncooked jasmine rice to the pot. Pour in the canned coconut milk, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, kosher salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine, making sure the rice is evenly coated and mixed with the seasonings. Now dump in the pineapple chunks along with their juice to make the rice beautifully sweet and tropical.

Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

Return the reserved marinade to the pot and nestle the seared chicken thighs right on top of the rice mixture. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low, and let everything cook together for 20-25 minutes. During this time, the rice will steam perfectly in the coconut milk, absorbing all the pineapple and marinade flavors while the chicken finishes cooking to tender, juicy perfection.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once the rice has absorbed all the liquid and the chicken is cooked through, remove the pot from heat and let it rest, covered, for about 5 minutes. This allows the steam to finish tenderizing the rice and chicken evenly. When ready to serve, sprinkle chopped cilantro, toasted coconut flakes, or crunchy cashews over the top to add fresh herbal brightness and textural contrast. Now it’s time to dig in and enjoy your tropical feast!

How to Serve One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe

A white plate holds a dish with two thick pieces of golden brown chicken on top, one piece sliced to show the white inside. The chicken rests on a bed of brown rice mixed with chunks of yellow pineapple and some herbs. Small bits of chopped nuts and green parsley leaves are scattered over the chicken and rice. A fork with a pale green handle is placed on the left side of the plate. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, with a bowl of grated cheese at the top and a small bowl of cashews on the left edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro is an absolute game-changer on this dish — its bright, citrusy notes cut through the richness beautifully. If you want a little crunch, chopped cashews or toasted coconut flakes add a lovely texture contrast that will keep every bite exciting. These garnishes not only enhance flavor but make your presentation pop like you’ve just stepped out of a tropical paradise.

Side Dishes

This One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe really shines as a standalone meal because it’s so complete, but if you want to add sides, think simple and fresh. A crisp cucumber salad, lightly dressed with lime juice, or a tangy pickled vegetable would provide refreshing balance. Grilled veggies or a fresh pineapple salsa can also work wonderfully to brighten your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For fun gatherings, consider serving this recipe family-style in the pot with garnishes in small bowls on the side so everyone can customize their plates. You could also serve it over a bed of greens for a lighter twist or pack it into warm tortillas alongside some sliced avocado for a Hawaiian-inspired taco night. It’s a versatile recipe that adapts beautifully!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe store beautifully in the fridge for up to 3-4 days when kept in an airtight container. The flavors develop even more as they meld overnight, so you might find it tastes even better the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save this tropical delight for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to keep the texture in good shape.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a covered skillet over medium heat or microwave with a splash of water to help loosen the rice. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming. The chicken might be even juicier on the second day, making each bite a little treasure.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer more juiciness and flavor, chicken breasts can be used if you prefer leaner meat. Just be mindful to not overcook them, as they can dry out faster.

Is there a substitute for coconut aminos?

You can use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari if coconut aminos aren’t available. Keep in mind that soy sauce is saltier and less sweet, so adjust quantities or add a touch of honey to maintain balance.

Can I make this recipe in advance for a party?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. The assembled dish can also be prepared up to a day in advance and gently reheated before serving for a stress-free gathering.

What if I don’t have jasmine rice?

Long grain white rice works as a good alternative, but jasmine rice’s fragrant aroma fits perfectly with the tropical theme. Brown rice is another substitute but requires longer cooking time and different liquid amounts.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free and gluten-free?

This One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce alternatives and verify that all ingredients like honey and oils meet your dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a recipe that delivers incredible tropical flavors without fuss, and this One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe does exactly that. It’s a vibrant, comforting dish perfect for any night when you crave a taste of sunshine and the islands right at home. Trust me, once you try it, it will become one of your favorite go-to meals to impress family and friends alike!

One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need