Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl

Name: Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 2 green onions, sliced; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love this Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl! It perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. The juicy pineapples complement the tender chicken, while a drizzle of homemade sauce ties everything together beautifully. Whenever I prepare this meal, it brings a touch of the tropics to my kitchen. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, which is a bonus for busy weeknights. Trust me, once you give it a try, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:35:37.608Z

When I first made this Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The combination of sweet pineapple and succulent chicken came together in a way that was both delicious and satisfying. As I drizzled the homemade sauce over the dish, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such bold flavors. It was a reminder that sometimes, the best meals come from a little creativity in the kitchen.

As I served it to my family and friends, the smiles on their faces confirmed my instincts. I learned that letting the chicken marinate briefly in the sauce enhances its flavor, and grilling or sautéing the chicken gives it that nice caramelization. This dish has become a family favorite, and I'm sure it will make your dinner table shine!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Tropical sweetness from fresh pineapples
Succulent chicken with a delightful caramelized glaze
Quick and easy, perfect for weeknight meals

Technique Tips

One key technique in preparing the Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl is the marination of the chicken. Allowing the chicken to soak in the soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger mixture for at least 15 minutes is crucial. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, contributing to a succulent texture when cooked. If possible, marinate it longer, up to an hour, to deepen the taste further.

When cooking the chicken, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the meat. This will help achieve a golden brown exterior while locking in moisture. Using medium-high heat is typically ideal, and you should look for the chicken to turn golden around the edges, which usually takes 6-8 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking.

After cooking the chicken, adding the pineapple will bring a delightful sweetness and acidity to the dish. When doing this, aim for a quick 3-4 minute cook time to ensure the pineapple retains some of its juiciness. You’re looking for a vibrant color and a slightly caramelized edge on the chicken and warmed pineapple for the best texture contrast.

Ingredient Insights

Fresh pineapple plays a pivotal role in balancing the flavors in this dish, providing a tropical sweetness that complements the savory glazed chicken. If fresh pineapple is unavailable, canned pineapple can be a good substitute, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture. The fresh fruit's brightness truly elevates this bowl, making it a standout dish.

The choice of soy sauce is also essential. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you're watching your salt intake; this allows you to enjoy the dish without compromising where flavor is concerned. Additionally, if you want to switch things up a bit, using teriyaki sauce or coconut aminos can create a different taste profile while still maintaining the sweet-savory balance.

Green onions not only add a pop of color but also lend a sharp, mild onion flavor that rounds out the dish. For a twist, consider substituting with chopped cilantro or even crushed peanuts for an added layer of texture and flavor. These substitutions can contribute to the overall tropical theme while keeping it fresh and vibrant.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 green onions, sliced
Sesame seeds for garnish

With these ingredients, you're ready to create a delicious Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl:

Prep the Chicken

In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Add the diced chicken and marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the diced pineapple to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until heated through.

Assemble the Bowl

Serve the chicken and pineapple mixture over the cooked rice. Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Enjoy your homemade Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, grill the chicken instead of sautéing it. Serve with extra pineapple slices for a refreshing burst of sweetness.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're planning to enjoy this Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl on a busy weeknight, consider prepping the chicken mixture ahead of time. Marinate the chicken earlier in the day or even the night before for the best flavor absorption. You can also chop the pineapple and green onions in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the fridge to maintain freshness until you're ready to assemble the dish.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, especially if using a microwave, add a splash of water to prevent the chicken from drying out. If you have time, reheating in a skillet over low heat with a lid works beautifully to preserve the dish's original moisture and texture.

Serving Suggestions

The Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl is versatile and can be paired with various sides. Consider serving it with steamed broccoli or snap peas for a pop of color and added nutrients. If looking for extra crunch, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would complement the dish wonderfully, balancing the sweetness with some acidity.

For a heartier meal, try adding bean sprouts, shredded carrots, or even bell peppers mixed into the chicken and pineapple as they cook. This not only adds more flavors but also makes the bowl more visually appealing. Adjust the quantity of rice to your preference, keeping in mind the ratios if adding more vegetables to maintain the balance of flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen pineapple?

Yes, you can use frozen pineapple, but make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the dish.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

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

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, the chicken and sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.