Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups cooked white rice; 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Highlighted under: Favorite World Food Inspiration

I love whipping up a Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl when I'm looking for a dish that strikes just the right balance of sweetness and savory. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite, thanks to its bright flavors and effortless preparation. The combination of juicy pineapple, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice creates a satisfying meal that's perfect for any night of the week. Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover rice or pineapple, making it both delicious and practical.

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-14T23:21:36.906Z

When I first decided to try making a Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl, I knew I wanted to enhance the natural sweetness of the pineapple. I marinated the chicken in a blend of soy sauce, honey, and garlic, which not only tenderized the meat but also added layers of flavor. The moment the chicken hit the skillet, my kitchen filled with mouthwatering aromas!

What surprised me most was the vibrant burst of pineapple as I mixed it with the chicken and rice just before serving. For extra crunch, I added some chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top. It was a hit with everyone at dinner, and I knew I’d be making this bowl again and again!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings
Colorful and visually appealing, great for serving guests

The Role of Pineapple in the Bowl

Pineapple is the star of this dish, providing a natural sweetness that complements the savory chicken beautifully. The enzymes in fresh pineapple can help tenderize the meat, enhancing its juiciness while infusing it with flavor. If using canned pineapple, opt for chunks packed in juice rather than syrup for a healthier choice. Remember to drain any excess liquid before adding it to the skillet to avoid a watery dish.

In addition to its flavor, pineapple adds vibrant color and texture to the bowl. When cooked, the pineapple caramelizes slightly, creating a delightful contrast between its sweet, bright notes and the savory elements. Keep an eye on the pineapple as it cooks; the goal is to warm it through without losing its shape or turning mushy, which should take about 3-5 minutes.

Marinating Chicken for Maximum Flavor

The marinade for the chicken is crucial to achieving depth of flavor in your Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes is essential, but if time permits, extending this to 30 minutes can further enhance the flavors. You may also consider marinating the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours for an even more robust taste.

If you're looking for a twist, experiment with the marinade by adding minced ginger for a spicy kick or a splash of lime juice for acidity. Just be cautious not to add too much acid, as it may begin to 'cook' the chicken if marinated for too long. A well-balanced marinade not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the chicken moist as it cooks.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a complete meal, consider serving the Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp cucumber salad to enhance the freshness. If you’re aiming for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu that has been marinated in a similar sauce, ensuring it absorbs all the wonderful flavors.

Don’t hesitate to customize the vegetables in this dish! Snap peas, broccoli, or even carrots can easily brighten up the bowl and provide a wholesome crunch. Sauté these alongside the bell pepper for maximum flavor and texture, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is cooked to your liking. Creating variations keeps your meals exciting and caters to personal preferences.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl:

For the Chicken Marinade

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp honey
2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Rice Bowl

2 cups cooked white rice
1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
1 tbsp sesame seeds
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp vegetable oil

With these ingredients ready, you can start cooking up a delicious Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic. Allow to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

Add Pineapple and Vegetables

Stir in the pineapple chunks and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Assemble the Bowls

Serve the chicken and vegetable mixture over bowls of cooked rice. Top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Your Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or substituting brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl is a great candidate for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken the night before to save time. Just remember to store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its freshness. The cooked rice can also be prepared ahead of time; store it in the refrigerator with a little bit of water or broth to keep it moist and reheat easily.

If you're planning to serve this dish later in the week, consider preparing the vegetables ahead as well. Chopping bell peppers and green onions can be done in advance; just store them in separate containers to maintain their crunch and flavor. This foresight can turn a busy weeknight into a breeze!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftovers from this recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. When reheating, it’s best to use a skillet over medium heat to retain the texture of the chicken and vegetables. If using a microwave, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out, heating in short intervals until just warmed through.

To freeze leftovers, pack them in a freezer-safe container, ensuring that you leave some space for expansion. This dish can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving to ensure even heating without losing moisture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with this recipe can be overcooked chicken, which leaves it dry and tough. To avoid this, use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If the chicken begins to brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly and continue cooking, checking periodically until cooked through.

Another potential problem is if your rice turns mushy when reheating. If that happens, add a splash of broth or water and heat gently to revive the texture. Fluff with a fork once heated through to restore its lightness. Keeping a close watch on cooking times and temperatures will help mitigate these problems and ensure your Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl comes out perfect every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to fully thaw and marinate it before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey for a similar sweetness.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this bowl?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots.