Healthy Hawaiian Chicken Bowl
There’s something irresistibly inviting about a bowl of Healthy Hawaiian Chicken Bowl. Picture juicy chicken marinated in tangy teriyaki sauce, nestled on a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, topped with vibrant fresh produce like sweet pineapple, crisp red bell peppers, and creamy avocado. The colors pop, the flavors mingle, and the aroma dances around the kitchen, drawing everyone in. As the sun sets on a warm summer evening, this dish has a way of bringing people together, filling their hearts with a sense of comfort and joy.
Table of Contents
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a casual dinner with friends after a long day at work. As soon as we sat down, the laughter and chatter filled the air, and everyone was eager to dig in. With every bite of that nourishing bowl, you could see the smiles grow. It’s moments like these, gathered around a shared meal, that create lasting memories. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cheerful summer gathering, this Healthy Hawaiian Chicken Bowl is just what you need.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Irresistible Flavor: The teriyaki chicken bursts with a delightful sweet and savory taste, while the avocado adds a creamy touch.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Bright colors make for a stunning presentation that will impress your family or guests.
- Flexible Serving: Ideal for lunch meal prep, dinner, or even as a fun party dish.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free, and easily adaptable for various dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 large chicken breast: This protein-packed base ensures your bowl is satisfying. Feel free to substitute with turkey or tofu for a different twist.
- ½ cup jasmine rice: Aromatic and slightly sticky, jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up those flavors. Short grain or brown rice can also work well.
- ½ fresh pineapple or 1 cup canned chunks: Fresh pineapple brings a refreshing sweetness and vibrant color to your bowl. If using canned, look for those packed in their juice, not syrup.
- 1 red bell pepper: Adds a crunchy texture and a pop of color. You could swap this for yellow or orange bell pepper, or even sliced carrots for variety.
- ½ avocado: Creamy avocado brings a smooth richness. For those with allergies, you can leave it out, although it does enhance the bowl.
- ½ red onion: The subtle sweetness complements the other ingredients beautifully. Swap it for green onions or shallots if preferred.
- 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce: This adds a rich, savory element to the chicken. Look for low-sodium versions if you’re watching your salt intake.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: This deepens the umami flavor. Use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
How to Make Healthy Hawaiian Chicken Bowl
Cook the Rice: Start by preparing the jasmine rice according to the package instructions, which usually takes around 10–12 minutes. Once fluffy and aromatic, set it aside, allowing it to cool slightly while you work on the rest of the bowl.
Marinate the Chicken: Slice the chicken breast into medium-sized pieces to help it cook evenly. In a mixing bowl, stir together the teriyaki sauce and soy sauce. Add the chicken pieces, making sure they’re well coated, and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step infuses flavor and tenderizes the meat.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot enough to sear. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 7–8 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken pieces are golden brown and no longer pink in the center. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and the kitchen smells incredible.
Prep the Veggies & Fruit: While the chicken cooks, take this time to finely dice your pineapple and red bell pepper. For a lovely presentation, thinly slice the avocado and red onion. The freshness of these ingredients balances the flavors nicely.
Assemble the Bowl: Now comes the fun part! Divide the fluffy jasmine rice evenly between your serving bowls. Top each bowl with the delicious teriyaki chicken, followed by the colorful pineapple, red bell pepper, creamy avocado, and red onion. It should look delightful and inviting!
Garnish (Optional): If you want an extra kick, drizzle on a bit more teriyaki sauce over the top before serving. This can really enhance the flavors and make each bite even more amazing.
Storing & Reheating
For any leftovers, let the bowl cool to room temperature before storing. You can keep your Healthy Hawaiian Chicken Bowl in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer to freeze it, use a freezer-friendly container and aim to consume it within 3 months. When it’s time to enjoy again, simply reheat in the microwave for about 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. You may find that the texture of the rice changes a bit, but a splash of water before microwaving can help refresh everything.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking your chicken; use a meat thermometer to keep it juicy and tender.
- For the best flavor, marinate the chicken as long as possible; even an hour could make a difference.
- If you want a spicy kick, add some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Prepare extra rice and veggies to make a quick lunch the next day. They’ll complement your chicken perfectly!
- Don’t hesitate to switch up the veggies to match your preferences or whatever you have on hand; broccoli or snap peas work great too.
This Healthy Hawaiian Chicken Bowl is a delightful dish that balances nutrition and flavor perfectly, ensuring every bite is satisfying and colorful. It’s an opportunity to explore creativity in the kitchen while bringing a taste of the islands right to your table. Enjoy trying different combinations and watching as friends and family rave about your handiwork!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking. Frozen chicken can be a great time-saver, but it’ll require a bit of extra time to ensure it’s cooked thoroughly.
What can I use instead of teriyaki sauce?
If you’re out of teriyaki sauce, you can make a simple substitute using soy sauce mixed with a bit of honey or brown sugar for sweetness. Alternatively, a blend of soy sauce, garlic, and a splash of sesame oil can create a tasty coating as well.
Can I make this bowl vegetarian or vegan?
Certainly! Just swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh. Marinate and cook it the same way for a delicious plant-based version. You can also add extra veggies to amp up the flavor profile.
How can I make this bowl spicier?
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, try adding sriracha or chili flakes to your teriyaki sauce before marinating the chicken. A sprinkle of diced fresh jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy mayo on top before serving will also do the trick!
PrintMore Dinner Recipes
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Healthy Hawaiian Chicken Bowl
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
This Healthy Hawaiian Chicken Bowl is a delicious blend of marinated chicken, fluffy jasmine rice, and vibrant vegetables, making it a perfect quick dinner option. Packed with refreshing flavors from pineapple and creamy avocado, it’s a meal that brings joy and comfort to any table.
Ingredients
- 1 large chicken breast
- ½ cup jasmine rice
- ½ fresh pineapple or 1 cup canned chunks
- 1 red bell pepper
- ½ avocado
- ½ red onion
- 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Instructions
- Cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions and set aside.
- Slice the chicken breast into medium pieces, marinate with teriyaki and soy sauce for 15 minutes.
- Heat a skillet and cook the marinated chicken for about 7–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
- Dice the pineapple and red bell pepper; slice the avocado and red onion.
- Assemble by placing rice in bowls, topping with chicken, pineapple, bell pepper, avocado, and onion.
- Optionally drizzle more teriyaki sauce before serving.
Notes
Let leftover bowls cool before storing; they’ll last 3 days in the fridge.
To refresh reheated rice, add a splash of water before microwaving.
Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies for customization.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
