A Hawaiian Chicken Bowl offers a vibrant fusion of sweet and savory flavors, combining tender grilled chicken with juicy pineapple, colorful peppers, and creamy avocado atop a bed of warm jasmine rice. This dish brings the essence of island-inspired cuisine to your table with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tropical Flavor Profile: The combination of teriyaki and sweet chili sauce with fresh pineapple imparts a refreshing, fruity note.
Quick Preparation: With just over 40 minutes total cooking time, this meal is ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize with your favorite vegetables or protein alternatives.
Balanced Nutrition: Protein-rich chicken paired with vegetables and rice makes a well-rounded, satisfying dish.
Visual Appeal: Bright colors from pineapple, peppers, and avocado make for an inviting presentation.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for the grill pan
¾ cup teriyaki sauce
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 pineapple, peeled, cored and cut into rings
12 mini sweet peppers, left whole
2 cups cooked jasmine rice, warm
2 avocados, diced
½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
2 limes, sliced foodnetwork.com

directions

Preheat an oiled grill pan over medium heat.
In a small bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce and sweet chili sauce; set aside.
Brush the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. Place on the grill pan and brush the tops with half of the sauce mixture. Cook for 4–5 minutes, then flip. Brush the other side with the remaining sauce and continue cooking until the chicken is cooked through, about 4 minutes more. Flip once more for an additional minute to caramelize. Remove the chicken and let rest.
If necessary, oil the grill pan again. Grill the pineapple rings and whole peppers until grill marks form, approximately 2 minutes per side. Remove and slice the pineapple into bite-sized pieces.
To assemble, divide the jasmine rice among four bowls. Slice the chicken and arrange it along one side of each bowl. Fill the remaining space with grilled peppers, pineapple, and diced avocado. Garnish with cilantro, sesame seeds, and a lime slice. foodnetwork.com

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes foodnetwork.com

Variations

Protein Swap: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs for richer flavor and more moisture.
Grilling Alternative: If a grill pan is unavailable, broil or bake the chicken and pineapple at 220 °C (425 °F) until charred and cooked through.
Base Options: Serve over coconut rice or brown rice for additional texture and flavor.
Vegetable Additions: Include grilled zucchini, bell peppers of different colors, or snap peas for extra crunch.
Sauce Enhancements: Drizzle with a bit of Sriracha or chili-garlic sauce for a spicy kick.

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power until warmed through, stirring halfway, or reheat in a preheated oven at 175 °C (350 °F) for 10–12 minutes. For best results, store components separately (rice, chicken, and toppings) and assemble just before serving to preserve texture.

FAQs

What can I use instead of teriyaki sauce?

If teriyaki sauce is unavailable, you can make a quick substitute by combining 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, and a pinch of garlic powder.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Brushing the chicken with sauce during cooking and allowing it to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain moisture. Using chicken thighs instead of breasts also reduces dryness.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes. Marinate the chicken and pre-slice the pineapple and peppers the night before. Grill and assemble on the day you plan to serve.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Traditional store-bought teriyaki sauce often contains wheat. To make this recipe gluten-free, choose a gluten-free teriyaki sauce or substitute with tamari.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and grill or pan-fry until golden. Increase the marinade time to at least 30 minutes for better flavor absorption.

What rice alternatives can I use?

Brown rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa are excellent alternatives that pair well with the tropical flavors.

How spicy is this dish?

The base recipe is mildly sweet and savory. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less sweet chili sauce, or include hot sauce to taste.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While the chicken and pineapple freeze well, the rice may become mushy upon thawing. It is best to freeze components separately and consume within one month.

What side dishes complement this bowl?

A simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or edamame provide a balanced accompaniment without overpowering the flavors.

How do I adjust the recipe for a crowd?

Double or triple the ingredient quantities as needed, and use multiple grill pans or an outdoor grill to cook in batches. Ensure even cooking by keeping the grill surface well-oiled and preheated.

Conclusion

The Hawaiian Chicken Bowl delivers a harmonious balance of sweet pineapple, savory chicken, and fresh vegetables, making it an ideal choice for both casual weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Its straightforward preparation, adaptability, and vibrant presentation ensure that this dish will become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Hawaiian Chicken Bowl