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Flavorful Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Bowls

grilled hawaiian teriyaki pineapple chicken bowls - featured image

Juicy grilled chicken thighs paired with caramelized pineapple chunks and a sticky-sweet teriyaki glaze, served over fluffy rice and fresh veggies for an easy, flavorful summer meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and cut into rings or chunks
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 3 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice (or quinoa for gluten-free option)
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup sliced cucumber
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl.
  2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, coat evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 2 hours.
  3. Peel and slice pineapple into rings or chunks, sprinkle with brown sugar, and set aside.
  4. Cook jasmine or basmati rice according to package instructions, rinsing under cold water before cooking for fluffiness.
  5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Clean and oil grates.
  6. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  7. Grill pineapple pieces for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized and slightly charred.
  8. Assemble bowls by dividing cooked rice, topping with sliced grilled chicken, grilled pineapple, shredded carrots, and sliced cucumber.
  9. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Optionally drizzle with reserved or warmed marinade sauce.

Notes

Marinate chicken between 30 minutes and 2 hours for best flavor; avoid over 6 hours to prevent soy sauce from ‘cooking’ the meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. For indoor cooking, use a grill pan or cast iron skillet. Rest chicken a few minutes before slicing to keep juices locked in. Brown sugar on pineapple helps caramelization but watch closely to avoid burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, teriyaki, pineapple, summer meals, easy recipe, backyard BBQ, Hawaiian chicken bowl