Sticky Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: Sticky Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups jasmine rice; 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1/2 onion, sliced; 1 garlic clove, minced; Green onions, for garnish; Sesame seeds, for garnish

Highlighted under: Exotic Inspirations Co.

When I first made this Sticky Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl, I was instantly transported to a tropical paradise. The combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates a delightful balance that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. The freshness of the ingredients and the vibrant colors make this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing. It's an easy weeknight dinner that feels special, and I can’t wait to share this recipe with you. Trust me, it’s a meal you’ll want to revisit often!

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-02-16T05:37:36.257Z

Making this Sticky Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl was such a fun experience! I had some fresh pineapple leftover from a tropical fruit salad, and I thought, why not pair it with chicken? The sweetness of the pineapple combined with the savory chicken really creates a delightful flavor explosion. I decided to use jasmine rice as it absorbs the flavors beautifully.

One tip I learned is to marinate the chicken in soy sauce and ginger before cooking. This brings extra depth to the dish and enhances the overall flavor. Trust me, that little step makes a world of difference and gives the chicken satisfying umami notes that pair perfectly with the pineapple!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Tropical flavors that transport you to a sunny getaway
Quick and easy preparation fits perfectly into a busy weeknight schedule
Perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite

Mastering the Chicken

To ensure the chicken remains juicy and flavorful, it's important to marinate it properly. The soy sauce not only adds saltiness but also tenderizes the meat. When marinating, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for up to 10 minutes or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes. The longer you allow it to rest in the marinade, the more intense the flavors will be, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

When cooking the chicken, use a large skillet that offers ample space. This allows for better heat distribution and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than browning. Aim for a medium-high heat level to achieve a nice golden color on the chicken, which adds depth to the overall flavor of the dish. Make sure to stir occasionally, so every piece is cooked evenly.

Choosing the Right Pineapple

Fresh pineapple is the star of this dish, contributing sweetness and acidity that balances the savory elements. Look for a pineapple that is ripe but firm to the touch, with a fragrant aroma. If fresh pineapple isn't available, canned pineapple works as a convenient alternative, but be sure to drain it well and reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid excess moisture.

Adding pineapple to the dish at the right moment is crucial. When you incorporate it after the chicken is cooked, you allow it to heat through without turning mushy. Cook it just enough so it softens and releases its juices, about 3-5 minutes. This technique helps maintain the fruit's texture while ensuring that each bite bursts with flavor.

Customize Your Bowl

Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! You can incorporate vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or even broccoli for added nutrients and texture. Just prepare them in a way that they retain some crunch, adding them to the skillet after the onion is softened, and sautéing for a couple of minutes before adding the chicken.

For a spicy kick, consider incorporating chili flakes or fresh jalapeños when cooking the onion and bell pepper. This will elevate the dish by adding heat that complements the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully. Experimenting with different proteins, such as shrimp or tofu, can also offer new flavors and make this dish versatile for various dietary needs.

Ingredients

2 cups jasmine rice
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 bell pepper, sliced
1/2 onion, sliced
1 garlic clove, minced
Green onions, for garnish
Sesame seeds, for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, combine jasmine rice with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until rice is cooked and water is absorbed.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with soy sauce and grated ginger. Let this marinate for 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes.

Add Pineapple

Stir in fresh pineapple chunks and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and soften the pineapple slightly.

Serve

Serve the chicken and pineapple mixture over the cooked jasmine rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Enjoy your vibrant and delicious Sticky Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a dash of chili flakes or sriracha to the chicken while cooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Sticky Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl is great for meal prep. You can prepare the rice and chicken mixture in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The rice can last up to 4-5 days, while the chicken and vegetable mix is best consumed within 3 days to maintain freshness. To reheat, microwave the rice and chicken mixture separately until heated through, adding a splash of water to the rice to prevent it from drying out.

If you're looking to make this dish even easier, consider cooking a larger batch of the rice and storing it for use in future meals. Jasmine rice can be frozen as well, so portion out the rice in freezer-safe bags and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This not only saves time but also allows you to enjoy the dish whenever you're craving a taste of the tropics.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sticky Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl with a side of fresh salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. Consider a tangy vinaigrette dressing that complements the dish. You can also make it a complete meal by adding sliced avocado on top, which adds creaminess and healthy fats.

For an enhanced presentation, arrange the rice in a bowl first, then either layer the chicken and pineapple mixture on top or toss it together and serve. A drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of lime zest can elevate the flavors, providing a little extra brightness. Don't forget the toppings; green onions and sesame seeds add visual appeal as well as texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the water and cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the rice.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

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

→ Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid in your dish.