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: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Sesame seeds for garnish; Green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Treats

I absolutely love making this Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl on busy weeknights. It’s a quick and delightful dish that packs a punch of flavor, combining the sweetness of pineapple with savory chicken and the heartiness of rice. Each bite is a burst of tropical goodness that reminds me of summer days. Plus, it's super easy to customize with whatever vegetables I have on hand, making it a versatile option for my family dinner or meal prep for the week.

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-15T04:33:36.187Z

This Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl quickly became a staple in my kitchen after I first tried it. The combination of fresh ingredients not only makes it colorful but also incredibly nutritious. I often roast the chicken to get that lovely caramelization which enhances the overall flavor profile.

One trick I learned is to let the pineapple marinate in a bit of soy sauce before cooking. This simple step intensifies the sweet and savory notes, ensuring every bite is deliciously satisfying. Don’t forget to sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for added texture!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors
Colorful and vibrant presentation
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Ingredient Insights

The key to a successful Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl lies in the quality of your chicken and pineapple. For the chicken, I recommend using skinless, boneless chicken breasts as they cook quickly and stay tender. Cut them into even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. If you're using canned pineapple, opt for those packed in juice rather than syrup for a fresher taste and lower sugar content. Fresh pineapple can bring a juicier texture and a more vibrant flavor, especially in the final dish.

Soy sauce is another vital player in this recipe, adding depth and umami. You can use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels while maintaining flavor. For a gluten-free version, tamari works equally well. Consider enhancing your dish with a touch of pineapple juice or a splash of rice vinegar for acidity, which can brighten the sweetness and add a layer of complexity to the flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl can be made ahead, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can cook the chicken and pineapple mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. The rice can also be cooked ahead; just ensure it's cooled completely before storing.

If you're looking to freeze your dish, consider storing the chicken and pineapple mixture separately from the rice. It will maintain the best texture that way. Store in freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming. While the flavors will still be vibrant, fresh veggies may lose their crispness, so I recommend adding fresh green onions or sesame seeds just before serving to perk up the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a complete meal, consider adding a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas. Their crunch complements the tender protein and the hearty rice. You can also serve the bowl with a fresh side salad or slaw to introduce a refreshing element. To elevate it further, drizzle a little spicy sriracha or sweet chili sauce over the top for a kick that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the pineapple.

Feel free to customize the vegetables in the bowl based on seasonal availability or personal preference. Zucchini, carrots, and snow peas can be excellent substitutes or additions. If you're aiming for a vegetarian version, swap out the chicken for tofu, ensuring it's pressed and marinated before cooking. This variation brings in plant-based protein while keeping the dish flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for the perfect bowl:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish
Green onions for garnish

Feel free to mix in any seasonal vegetables or spices you enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to recreate this delicious bowl:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Combine with Pineapple

Stir in the pineapple chunks and soy sauce. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve the Bowl

Divide the cooked rice among bowls and top with the chicken and pineapple mixture. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce and ginger for at least 30 minutes before cooking. You can also add extra vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a more nutritious bowl.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chicken appears rubbery, it may be a sign of overcooking. Always cook until just browned and no longer pink; using a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F can help avoid overcooking. Additionally, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking can help retain moisture before mixing it with the ingredients.

Another common issue is unevenly cooked rice, especially if using leftover rice. To ensure it heats evenly, place it in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water, cover it, and microwave in short increments, stirring in between until hot. This method helps revive dried-out rice and makes it fluffy again.

Scaling the Recipe

If you need to serve a larger crowd, scaling the Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl is straightforward. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. For larger quantities, consider using a large skillet or wok to ensure everything cooks evenly without overcrowding. You may need to cook the chicken in batches to achieve that nice golden browning.

Additionally, portion sizes can vary, so consider using measuring cups to ensure everyone gets a fair serving. When scaling sauces, maintain the ratio of soy sauce to pineapple because adjustments may alter the dish's sweet-savory balance, which is integral to its flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover chicken works great; just add it at the same time you would the pineapple.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or substitute with a gluten-free alternative.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the chicken with tofu or a variety of vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.