Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup pineapple juice; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup jasmine rice; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 cup water; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Heartfelt Meals

When I first tried making a Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl, I didn’t expect it to be such a hit in my household. The combination of tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and fluffy rice creates an explosion of flavors that is both satisfying and refreshing. Each bite delivers a sweet-and-savory experience that transports me to a tropical paradise. Plus, it’s an easy dish to prepare on busy weeknights, making it a perfect go-to recipe for delicious family dinners.

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-02-10T20:37:36.208Z

As I experimented with different ingredients, I discovered that the key to a flavorful Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl is marinating the chicken in a mix of pineapple juice and soy sauce. This not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a delightful sweetness that pairs so well with the fresh pineapple chunks. I love seeing the colors come together, especially with the vibrant green of green onions sprinkled on top.

One tip I found particularly useful is to cook the rice in coconut milk rather than water. It adds a creamy texture and enhances the tropical flavor profile, making each bite an indulgent experience. I encourage everyone to try this method; you won’t be disappointed!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special
A colorful presentation that impresses anyone at the table

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in this Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl. The pineapple juice not only infuses the chicken with tropical sweetness but also helps tenderize it thanks to its natural enzymes. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes—though I often let it rest for up to an hour—maximizes flavor absorption. For enhanced complexity, consider adding a splash of lime juice to the marinade; it complements the pineapple and adds a zesty kick.

Be cautious not to over-marinate; chicken should not sit in acidic marinades longer than a few hours to prevent it from becoming mushy. An airtight container or a resealable plastic bag will work best to ensure even coverage and prevent spills.

Perfecting Coconut Rice

For an irresistible coconut flavor, use high-quality coconut milk and rinse the jasmine rice before cooking. Rinsing removes excess starch, which can make the rice gummy. After rinsing, combine the rice with coconut milk and water in a saucepan; bring to a boil over medium-high heat before reducing to low. It’s essential to keep the lid on while it simmers—this traps steam and results in perfectly fluffy rice without burning at the bottom.

If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half of the coconut milk with low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth. This will reduce the richness of the dish while still providing flavor.

Assembling for Presentation

When assembling your Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl, presentation is key to enhancing your dining experience. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to aerate before placing it into each bowl. A tidy, generous mound of rice topped with vibrant chicken and pineapple makes for an appealing visual. I often suggest a rainbow of color by adding a sprinkle of chopped red bell pepper or shredded carrots for added crunch and nutrition.

Don’t forget to drizzle a little extra marinade over the chicken for added shine and flavor just before serving. If you have leftovers, the rice and chicken can be stored separately; this helps maintain their textures and flavors longer.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Marinade

1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
1/2 cup pineapple juice
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 tsp salt

For Serving

1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
1/4 cup chopped green onions
Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced chicken breast, ensuring it's well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Rice

In a saucepan, combine the jasmine rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes or until fully cooked through and slightly caramelized.

Assemble the Bowl

Fluff the cooked rice and divide it among bowls. Top with the cooked chicken, fresh pineapple chunks, and chopped green onions. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some sliced jalapeños to the chicken marinade. You can also substitute brown rice for a healthier option.

Flavor Variations

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes to the chicken marinade. This contrast with the sweetness of pineapple creates a delightful heat that elevates the overall dish. Additionally, swapping pineapple for mango can introduce a different fruity note, giving a tropical twist to your bowl.

Another creative variation is to incorporate savory elements like sautéed bell peppers or snap peas into the dish. These not only add texture but also can add nutritional value without overpowering the original flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of this dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, consider using a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of additional coconut milk or stock to keep the rice moist and flavorful. Heat it in intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can marinate the chicken the night before. Store the marinated chicken in the refrigerator, and cook it fresh the next day. Additionally, the rice can be made earlier in the day and kept warm in a covered dish until you're ready to serve.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this Sweet Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl is straightforward. Whether you're cooking for a larger family or planning a gathering, simply double or triple the recipe items while maintaining the same marinating times and cooking methods. Be mindful of using a larger skillet or cooking the chicken in batches to ensure it cooks evenly.

If you prefer to downsize, you can easily halve the quantities while keeping the same cooking times, especially for the rice. This flexibility allows you to adjust the recipe based on your needs without compromising flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating to ensure even flavor distribution.

→ What can I serve as a side dish?

This dish pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the rice a day in advance. Just reheat before serving.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Store the components separately in airtight containers, and they will last 3-4 days in the fridge.