The Hawaiian Chicken Bowl is a tropical-inspired dish that’s bursting with flavor. Juicy grilled chicken, paired with sweet pineapple, crisp veggies, and a savory sauce, creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite. This dish is not only vibrant and refreshing but also incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal meal for any occasion. Try it today and transport your taste buds to the islands!
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Chicken Bowl
This Hawaiian Chicken Bowl is a lifesaver for busy days. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. The combination of savory chicken, crisp vegetables, and sweet pineapple creates a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a one-bowl meal, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll love how it brings a taste of the islands to your dinner table without the hassle!
Ingredients for Hawaiian Chicken Bowl
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Hawaiian Chicken Bowl a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cooked jasmine rice: This fluffy rice serves as the perfect base, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, they cook quickly and are packed with flavor.
Olive oil: A healthy fat for cooking the chicken, adding richness to the dish.
Garlic powder: This adds a savory depth that elevates the chicken’s flavor.
Onion powder: A subtle sweetness that complements the garlic perfectly.
Paprika: This spice brings a hint of smokiness and vibrant color to the dish.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
Pineapple chunks: Fresh or canned, they add a sweet and tangy burst that’s quintessentially Hawaiian.
Red bell pepper: Diced for a pop of color and a sweet crunch.
Broccoli florets: These add a nutritious touch and a lovely green contrast.
Soy sauce: A savory element that ties all the flavors together.
Honey: This natural sweetener balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.
Green onions: Sliced for a fresh, zesty garnish that brightens the dish.
Sesame seeds: Optional, but they add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
For those looking to mix things up, consider substituting quinoa or brown rice for a healthier grain option. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Bowl
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful Hawaiian Chicken Bowl! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil warms up, season your boneless, skinless chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This seasoning mix will give the chicken a flavorful kick!
Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and fully cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting time helps keep the chicken juicy!
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the diced red bell pepper and broccoli florets. Sauté these vibrant veggies for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be tender yet still crisp, adding a nice crunch to your bowl. The colors will brighten up your dish, making it even more appetizing!
Step 3: Add Pineapple
Next, it’s time to bring in the star of the show—pineapple! Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sweet and tangy flavors to meld with the veggies. This step is where the Hawaiian essence truly shines!
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and honey until well combined. This sweet-savory sauce will tie all the flavors together beautifully. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the skillet, stirring gently to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for a minute to warm through.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
Now comes the fun part—assembling your Hawaiian Chicken Bowl! Start by placing a generous scoop of jasmine rice in each bowl. Top it with the chicken and vegetable mixture, making sure to get all those delicious flavors in every bite. Finally, garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra touch. Enjoy your tropical feast!
Tips for Success
Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for perfect doneness.
Feel free to customize veggies based on what you have on hand.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and honey for an hour before cooking.
Don’t skip the resting time for the chicken; it keeps it juicy!
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works great for easy cooking and cleanup.
Cutting board: Essential for chopping veggies and slicing chicken.
Sharp knife: A good knife makes prep work quick and safe.
Measuring spoons: Handy for accurate seasoning.
Whisk: Perfect for mixing the sauce smoothly.
Variations of Hawaiian Chicken Bowl
Teriyaki Chicken Bowl: Swap the soy sauce and honey for teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, richer flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based twist that’s just as satisfying.
Spicy Hawaiian Bowl: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Grilled Chicken Bowl: Grill the chicken thighs instead of pan-searing for a smoky flavor.
Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice for a lighter meal.
Serving Suggestions for Hawaiian Chicken Bowl
Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad for a crunchy contrast.
Serve with a tropical drink like a piña colada or coconut water.
For a colorful presentation, use a vibrant bowl and garnish with extra pineapple slices.
Consider adding a side of steamed edamame for extra protein.
FAQs about Hawaiian Chicken Bowl
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While I love the juiciness of chicken thighs, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work just as well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as breasts may cook a bit faster.
Is this Hawaiian Chicken Bowl gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce. It’s a great option for those with dietary restrictions!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and veggies in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve. The flavors will still be delicious!
What can I substitute for jasmine rice?
If jasmine rice isn’t your thing, feel free to use brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture!
How can I make this Hawaiian Chicken Bowl spicier?
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce. You can also marinate the chicken in a spicy sauce before cooking for an extra layer of heat!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Hawaiian Chicken Bowl is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing a taste of the islands to your home. The vibrant colors and flavors make every bite a joyful experience. I love how this dish transforms a busy weeknight into a mini celebration, allowing my family to savor something special together. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even on the craziest days, I can whip it up without breaking a sweat. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
A delicious Hawaiian Chicken Bowl featuring tender chicken thighs, fresh vegetables, and sweet pineapple served over jasmine rice.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups cooked jasmine rice
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
¼ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 green onions, sliced
Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
In the same skillet, add the diced red bell pepper and broccoli florets. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and honey. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture, stirring to coat everything evenly.
To serve, place a scoop of jasmine rice in each bowl, top with the chicken and vegetable mixture, and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning.
Substitute quinoa or brown rice for a healthier grain option.
