If you are craving a vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying meal that bursts with tropical goodness, this Hawaiian Chicken Bowl Recipe is your new best friend. Picture tender chicken marinated in savory teriyaki and soy sauce, paired with sweet pineapple chunks, creamy avocado, crisp bell peppers, and fluffy jasmine rice—all coming together in one colorful and nourishing bowl. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat. Once you try it, you’ll see why the Hawaiian Chicken Bowl Recipe is such a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you; each one plays an essential role in crafting the perfect Hawaiian Chicken Bowl Recipe. From the aromatic jasmine rice to the bright and juicy pineapple, every component adds a layer of flavor, texture, and color that makes every bite unforgettable.
- 1 large chicken breast: The star protein, tender and versatile, perfect for soaking up the savory marinade.
- ½ cup jasmine rice: Fragrant and slightly sticky, it creates a light and fluffy base for the bowl.
- ½ fresh pineapple or 1 cup canned chunks: Adds a tropical sweetness with a bit of tang that balances the savory chicken.
- 1 red bell pepper: Bright and crunchy, it brings vibrant color and a fresh bite to the bowl.
- ½ avocado: Creamy and smooth, it contrasts the texture beautifully while adding healthy fats.
- ½ red onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp, slightly sweet flavor that cuts through the richness.
- 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce: Provides deep umami and a hint of sweetness for perfect marination.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds salty, savory notes that intensify the marinade’s flavor.
How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by cooking the jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Jasmine rice offers a delicate floral aroma that pairs so well with the tropical ingredients in this bowl. Once cooked, set it aside so it’s ready to build your bowl on a fluffy foundation.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Cut the chicken breast into medium-sized pieces for even cooking. In a bowl, mix teriyaki sauce and soy sauce to create a flavorful marinade, then toss the chicken in it. Letting the chicken soak for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, giving you that irresistible savory-sweet profile in every bite.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, and once it’s hot, add the marinated chicken pieces. Sear them until they develop a beautiful golden crust and are cooked through, about 7 to 8 minutes. This quick sear locks in moisture and flavor, ensuring your chicken stays juicy and tender.
Step 4: Prep the Veggies and Fruit
While the chicken cooks, dice the fresh pineapple and red bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the avocado and red onion to get that lovely creamy and sharp contrast in the bowl. These fresh ingredients add crunch, creaminess, and a burst of tropical sweetness that elevate the dish.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
Divide the cooked jasmine rice between two bowls. Layer on the seared chicken, pineapple, bell pepper, avocado, and red onion beautifully on top. This colorful arrangement not only looks inviting but also ensures every bite combines a symphony of flavors and textures.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
If you want to amp up the flavor, drizzle some extra teriyaki sauce over the top for a glossy finish and a bit more sweetness. Serve immediately to enjoy all the fresh textures and warm, comforting flavors of this Hawaiian Chicken Bowl Recipe.
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can take this bowl to another level of deliciousness. Try sprinkling some toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions to provide a slight crunch and fresh herbal notes. A wedge of lime on the side never hurts either, offering a zesty brightness that complements the sweetness of the pineapple perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully cohesive, but if you want to add some sides, consider a simple cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette or a crisp seaweed salad. Both options keep the meal fresh and light, making it taste even more like an island getaway on a plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your Hawaiian Chicken Bowl Recipe in a hollowed-out pineapple shell. It adds a wow factor and enhances the tropical vibe. You could also layer the ingredients in a mason jar for a portable lunch that looks just as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the avocado and fresh vegetables separate, as they can wilt or brown quickly. Assemble the bowl fresh when you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
While the chicken and rice freeze well, fresh pineapple and avocado do not freeze smoothly, so avoid freezing the assembled bowl. Instead, freeze the cooked chicken and rice in portioned containers for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken and rice gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep them moist. Add fresh avocado and pineapple after reheating to preserve their texture and freshness in your Hawaiian Chicken Bowl Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! While jasmine rice offers a lovely aroma and texture that pairs beautifully with this dish, you can use basmati, brown rice, or even quinoa to suit your preference or dietary needs.
Is it okay to use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, canned pineapple chunks work perfectly and add the same tropical sweetness, just be sure to drain them well to avoid extra moisture in the bowl.
Can the chicken be grilled instead of cooked on the stove?
Definitely! Grilling the marinated chicken will add a smoky char that complements the teriyaki flavors wonderfully and adds a bit of a beachy vibe to the dish.
How spicy is this Hawaiian Chicken Bowl Recipe?
This recipe is mild and sweet with savory undertones, making it family-friendly. If you enjoy spice, you can always add a dash of chili flakes or a spicy sauce as a finishing touch.
Can I prepare this dish vegan or vegetarian?
To make a plant-based version, substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh, and swap out the teriyaki and soy sauce for vegan versions. You’ll still get that same delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—an easy, colorful, and downright delicious Hawaiian Chicken Bowl Recipe that’s perfect for any day you want a taste of the tropics. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. I promise once you try it, you’ll fall in love and keep coming back for more!
Print
Hawaiian Chicken Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Bowl featuring marinated chicken, jasmine rice, and fresh pineapple, bell pepper, and avocado. This quick and easy recipe brings a tropical twist to your meal with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, ideal for a healthy and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 large chicken breast
Grains
- ½ cup jasmine rice
Fruits & Vegetables
- ½ fresh pineapple or 1 cup canned pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper
- ½ avocado
- ½ red onion
Sauces & Condiments
- 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Prepare the jasmine rice according to the package instructions and set it aside, ensuring that it is fluffy and fully cooked.
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into medium-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine teriyaki sauce and soy sauce, then add the chicken pieces. Stir well and allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and sear them until they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through, about 7 to 8 minutes. Remove the chicken from heat and set aside.
- Prep the Veggies & Fruit: Dice the pineapple and red bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the avocado and red onion to create fresh toppings.
- Assemble the Bowl: Divide the cooked jasmine rice between two bowls. Top each bowl with the cooked chicken, diced pineapple, red bell pepper, avocado slices, and red onion slices evenly.
- Garnish (Optional): Drizzle additional teriyaki sauce over the bowls if desired, then serve immediately to enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute jasmine rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
- Marinate chicken longer for more intense flavor, up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Use canned pineapple if fresh pineapple is not available; just drain it well before using.
- For a spicier kick, add a sprinkle of chili flakes or sriracha when assembling the bowl.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently before serving.
