Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls

If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with vibrant flavors, easy to make, and packed with wholesome ingredients, these Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls are your new weeknight hero. Tender chicken thighs glazed in a sweet and savory pineapple teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy rice, and garnished with fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds — it’s a bowl that hits every note just right. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a taste of the tropics with an Asian-inspired twist.

Top Reasons to Make Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls

• Flavor explosion: The combination of sweet pineapple, savory soy, and zingy ginger creates a perfectly balanced teriyaki sauce that your taste buds will love.
• Simple ingredients: With everyday pantry staples and fresh produce, you can whip this dish up without any hassle.
• One-pan cooking: Minimal cleanup because you cook the chicken and sauce in one skillet.
• Versatile meal: Serve it over white or brown rice, or even cauliflower rice to suit your preferences.
• Perfectly portioned: This recipe serves about 4 and is great for leftovers or meal prep.
• Family-friendly: The sweet and savory profile appeals to kids and adults alike.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, thighs stay tender in this recipe.
• 1 cup pineapple chunks: Fresh or canned (in juice, not syrup) adds sweetness and tang.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: Provides the salty umami base for the teriyaki sauce.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds rich sweetness to balance the soy sauce.
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger: Adds a fresh, zesty kick.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances depth of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce to a glossy finish.
• 2 tablespoons water: Used to blend with cornstarch for thickening.
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice: The perfect base to soak up all the sauce.
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and color.
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds: Toasted for nuttiness and crunch.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For cooking the chicken.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the chicken.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or frying pan: For cooking the chicken and making the sauce.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the sauce ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: To chop green onions and prepare pineapple.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring and flipping chicken.
• Small bowl: To mix cornstarch slurry.

Stepwise Method: Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, grated fresh ginger, and minced garlic until the sugar is mostly dissolved. This mixture will create the sweet and savory teriyaki glaze that coats the chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs lightly with salt and pepper. Add them to the pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Pineapple Teriyaki Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the pineapple chunks and stir to combine. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then slowly whisk it into the simmering sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet, turning them to coat evenly with the thickened pineapple teriyaki sauce. Let them warm through for another minute or two, absorbing all those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked rice between four bowls. Slice the chicken thighs into strips and place them on top of the rice, spooning extra sauce and pineapple chunks over each bowl. Garnish generously with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a final burst of flavor and texture.

How to Make It Lighter

• Use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for less fat.
• Replace white or brown rice with cauliflower rice to cut carbs and calories.
• Reduce the brown sugar by half or substitute with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium content.
• Skip the oil or use a non-stick pan to cook the chicken without added fat.

Little Things that Matter

• Fresh ginger: Freshly grated ginger really elevates the sauce’s brightness compared to powdered ginger.
• Toasting sesame seeds: A quick toast in a dry pan brings out their nutty flavor and crunch.
• Choosing chicken thighs: Their higher fat content keeps the meat tender and juicy compared to drier chicken breasts.
• Cooking rice ahead: Prepare rice in advance and let it cool slightly for better texture under the sauce.
• Serving suggestions: Add steamed veggies or a side salad to round out your meal.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Store leftover Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave the bowl until warmed through, stirring halfway to distribute heat. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. For freezing, separate the chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Popular Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well if you prefer a leaner option. Just be mindful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster than thighs.

Is fresh pineapple necessary or can I use canned?

You can use canned pineapple chunks as long as they are packed in juice rather than syrup to avoid extra sweetness. Fresh pineapple adds a brighter, more natural flavor but canned works perfectly in a pinch.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

The cornstarch slurry helps thicken the sauce. If you want it thicker, simply add a little more cornstarch mixed with water and simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Adding steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers complements the flavors and adds nutritional value. For inspiration, check out our delicious Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry recipe for ideas on pairing chicken with veggies.

Serve with These

• Sticky Sesame Orange Chicken Bowls – a citrusy, sticky chicken bowl that’s a great companion dish.
• Steamed edamame with sea salt for a simple, protein-packed side.
• Crispy spring rolls or vegetable gyoza for a fun appetizer.
• Pickled cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch alongside your bowl.

Let’s Eat

There’s nothing quite like digging into these Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls when you want a satisfying yet fresh meal. The tender chicken soaking in that luscious pineapple teriyaki sauce paired with fluffy rice makes each bite a delight. Garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds, this dish looks as good as it tastes. Whip it up when you want a simple meal with a tropical twist that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Serve it family-style or pack it for lunch the next day — either way, you’re in for a treat.

These bowls prove that weeknight dinners don’t have to be complicated to be delicious. So grab your skillet, chop some fresh ginger, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s sure to become a fast favorite. Whether you’re craving a tropical tang or the comforting umami of teriyaki, this recipe delivers in every way. Don’t forget to complement your bowl with some crisp veggies or try other crowd-pleasing chicken dishes like the Sticky Sesame Orange Chicken Bowls for variety in your meal rotation.

Ready to savor these Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls? Let’s get cooking!

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