Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl

Name: Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced; 1 cup fresh pineapple, cubed; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 small onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice for serving; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Favorite World Food Recipes

I absolutely love this Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl for its vibrant flavors and refreshing pineapple twist. Combining tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and the sweet tang of pineapple creates a bowl that's not only delicious but visually appealing. The harmony of sweet and savory makes it a great weeknight dinner option, and it's quick to prepare, making it a delightful addition to our family meals. Plus, the balance of textures keeps every bite interesting!

Created by

Florence Keaton

Last updated on 2026-02-15T05:01:36.266Z

When I first decided to make this Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl, I wanted a dish that would not only satisfy my family but also excite our taste buds. During the cooking process, I learned that marinating the chicken in soy sauce and pineapple juice enhances the flavor profile significantly. I let the chicken soak up the marinade for about 20 minutes while I prepped the other ingredients, ensuring each bite was bursting with flavor.

As I combined the veggies and chicken, I noticed how the colors popped in the bowl. To elevate the dish even further, I topped it with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime, which added a lovely freshness. It’s amazing how simple steps can transform a regular meal into something special!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and tangy pineapple complements savory chicken perfectly
Quick and easy preparation suitable for busy weeknights
Packed with colorful veggies for a nutritious meal

Preparing the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in building flavor for this Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl. The combination of soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a sweet and savory profile. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes will give it time to absorb these flavors, but if you're in a hurry, even a quick 10-minute soak can enhance its taste. Just make sure to cover it and refrigerate if you marinate for longer.

When cooking the chicken, ensure that your skillet is preheated to medium heat before adding the marinated meat. This helps to achieve a nice sear, rendering the edges slightly crispy while keeping the inside juicy. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, checking for a golden-brown color on the outside. This texture contrast is essential, as it complements the soft vegetables that will be added later.

Incorporating Fresh Vegetables

Adding fresh bell peppers and onions not only boosts the nutritional value of your Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl but also adds a delightful crunch. Sautéing these vegetables for about 5 minutes allows them to soften while maintaining some bite. Choosing a variety of colored bell peppers—like red, yellow, and green—creates a visually vibrant dish and introduces different flavor nuances.

Don't forget the pineapple! Adding it towards the end of the cooking process allows it to warm through without losing its juicy sweetness. This timing is key, as overcooking the pineapple can result in a mushy texture that detracts from the overall experience. Look for ripe, fresh pineapple for the best results, and feel free to use canned pineapple in a pinch; just make sure to drain it well before adding.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy cooked rice, which helps to soak up the delicious sauce created during cooking. For an added layer of flavor, try using coconut rice, which complements the tropical notes of the pineapple beautifully. If you're looking for a low-carb option, quinoa or cauliflower rice can also work as suitable substitutes.

Garnishing with fresh cilantro and lime wedges not only enhances the dish's presentation but also adds a fresh burst of flavor. The lime juice can be squeezed over the chicken and vegetables right before serving, brightening the dish and balancing the sweetness from the honey and pineapple. This simple finishing touch can make a noticeable difference in flavor, so don’t skip it!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced
1 cup fresh pineapple, cubed
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice for serving
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for serving

Make sure to have everything ready to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

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

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine diced chicken, soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic. Let marinate for about 20 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the sliced bell pepper, onion, and cubed pineapple. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Enjoy your vibrant and delicious Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some red pepper flakes during the cooking process for a hint of spice.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld as they sit, making this dish even tastier on day two. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in a covered dish for about 2–3 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the Sweet Pineapple Chicken Bowl. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as mentioned above. Keep in mind that the texture of the vegetables may soften upon reheating, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to make this recipe your own by adding other vegetables you have on hand. Snap peas, broccoli, or even shredded carrots would add both color and nutrition to your bowl. If you want to spice things up, adding a splash of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dish a nice kick, balancing the sweetness of the pineapple.

If you're looking for a protein alternative, this recipe works well with shrimp or tofu. For shrimp, simply adjust the cooking time down to about 3–4 minutes, as they cook faster than chicken. For tofu, press and cube it, then pan-fry it until golden and crispy before adding it to the vegetable mix. These variations provide not just different flavor profiles but also cater to different dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different option.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken a day in advance, but it’s best to cook it fresh.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Broccoli, carrots, or snap peas would make great additions to this dish.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.