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 jasmine rice; 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup snow peas; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Flavors Abroad

When I brought the Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl to the table, everyone couldn't wait to dig in. This dish is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory, making it an instant favorite in my home. We love how the juicy pineapple pairs with tender chicken, all served on a bed of fluffy rice. It's quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll want to add it to your regular rotation for an effortless yet delicious meal.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:29:36.448Z

Creating this Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl was an adventure in flavors. I was inspired by the vibrant tropical fruit paired with savory chicken, and it turned out even better than I imagined. The secret is in balancing the sweetness of the pineapple with the umami of the soy sauce and garlic, which elevates the dish to a whole new level.

As I sautéed the chicken, the aroma wafting through my kitchen made my mouth water. I discovered that adding the pineapple towards the end gives it a perfect caramelization. For an extra touch, sprinkle some green onions and sesame seeds on top before serving to enhance both the taste and presentation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
Fresh, vibrant ingredients that brighten up any meal
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights

Preparation Made Easy

To make this Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl as smooth as possible, start by preparing all your ingredients beforehand. Dice the fresh pineapple, slice the red bell pepper, and trim the snow peas. This not only saves time during the cooking process but also ensures that everything cooks evenly. Mis en place, or having everything in place, will improve your workflow significantly, allowing you to focus on getting that perfect balance of flavors in the bowl.

Another tip for cooking the chicken is to ensure your skillet is adequately heated before you add in the oil and chicken. Cooking over medium-high heat will help achieve that beautiful golden-brown color which adds depth to the dish. If your chicken pieces are overcrowded in the pan, they might steam rather than sear, so I recommend cooking in batches if necessary.

Optimizing Flavors

The combination of soy sauce and honey creates a wonderful glaze that enhances the sweetness of the pineapple. If you’re looking for a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of chili sauce while mixing the sauce. This will bring a vibrant kick to the dish without overshadowing the other flavors. I often experiment with different sweeteners like maple syrup or agave for a unique twist, depending on what I have on hand.

Another essential ingredient component is garlic. Adding minced garlic towards the end of the initial cooking stage preserves its pungent aroma and flavor, holding up beautifully against the sweetness of the pineapple. If you’re a fan of stronger garlic notes, feel free to increase the amount to suit your taste. Just keep in mind that fresh garlic can turn bitter if cooked for too long, so watch your pan closely.

Serving Suggestions

Once assembled, this rice bowl is beautifully vibrant, making it an excellent centerpiece for a casual dinner. For a refreshing side, consider a simple cucumber salad tossed with rice vinegar and sesame oil, which complements the dish's tropical notes beautifully. If you're entertaining, you can also serve it family-style and let everyone customize their bowls with additional toppings like avocado or crispy fried onions for added texture.

For make-ahead options, you can marinate the chicken in the soy sauce and honey mix for a couple of hours before cooking. This not only infuses the meat with flavor but also makes weeknight meal preparation a breeze. Store any leftover chicken and rice bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and reheat gently in the microwave to enjoy a quick and satisfying meal later on.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl:

For the Chicken and Rice Bowl

2 cups cooked jasmine rice
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup snow peas
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Adjust the ingredients as desired for a delicious twist!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

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

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables and Pineapple

Stir in the red bell pepper, snow peas, and garlic. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until vegetables are tender. Next, add the diced pineapple.

Mix in Sauce

Pour the soy sauce and honey over the chicken and vegetables. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring to combine and allow the flavors to meld.

Serve it Up

Spoon the chicken and pineapple mixture over a bed of jasmine rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Enjoy your colorful, delicious bowl!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add a splash of sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different flavor profile.

Storing and Reheating

After enjoying your Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure everything heats evenly. If you're looking for a fresher approach, sauté it on the stove over low heat, allowing the ingredients to warm and meld together again without losing their texture.

Freezing is another option if you want to prolong its life. However, it's best to freeze the chicken and vegetables separately from the rice. When freezing, consider using freezer-safe bags to prevent freezer burn, and label them with the date. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat using the microwave or a skillet until heated through.

Ingredient Variations

If you're looking for substitutions depending on dietary restrictions or flavor preferences, this recipe is quite adaptable. For instance, swapping out chicken breast for tofu or tempeh can create a scrumptious vegetarian or vegan option. Be sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture, allowing for better browning during cooking. You could also use brown rice for a whole-grain alternative that adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber.

To enhance the dish, consider exploring different vegetables based on what’s in season. Broccoli or baby corn can bring unique textures, while mango can replace pineapple for a different sweet note. If you're an adventurous eater, adding coconut milk towards the end of cooking can add a creamy richness that harmonizes well with the sweet and savory profiles.

Scaling the Recipe

One of the best aspects of this Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl is its flexibility regarding portion sizes. If you're cooking for a larger crowd, simply double the ingredients, ensuring you have enough skillet space to cook everything evenly. If your skillet isn't large enough, consider using two pans to maintain that delicious sear on the chicken and crispness in the vegetables.

Conversely, if you want to reduce the recipe for a smaller portion without compromising flavor, halving the ingredients is straightforward. Just keep in mind that cooking times may slightly adjust based on the reduced quantity, so keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks to avoid overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but be sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add broccoli, carrots, or any veggies you prefer!

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

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

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and rice ahead and reheat when ready to serve, adding the fresh pineapple just before serving.