Pineapple Chicken Teriyaki Bowl

Name: Pineapple Chicken Teriyaki Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned; 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 onion, sliced; 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa; Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Bowl Creations

When I think of a dish that brightens up my weeknight meals, the Pineapple Chicken Teriyaki Bowl immediately comes to mind. Combining tender chicken thighs with sweet pineapple and a savory teriyaki sauce creates a delightful balance that my family can't resist. Each bite offers a taste of the tropics, making it not just a meal but an experience. This recipe is quick, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish, and it's a fantastic way to incorporate fresh ingredients into our dinner routine.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-01-29T23:31:28.054Z

One of my favorite weeknight meals is this Pineapple Chicken Teriyaki Bowl. The combination of juicy chicken and vibrant pineapple gives it a refreshing twist, reminiscent of summer vibes even on a chilly day. I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes to truly let the flavors meld, and trust me, it’s worth the wait!

As I perfected this recipe, I learned that cooking the chicken over medium-high heat develops a beautiful caramelization. This not only enhances the overall flavor but also provides a nice texture contrast when paired with the tender pineapple. I love serving it over fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory flavor profile that excites the palate
Colorful presentation that is as appealing as it is delicious
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

Marinating the chicken thighs in teriyaki and soy sauce is crucial for building depth of flavor. I recommend letting them soak for at least 15 minutes, but if you have time, an hour or more will allow the marinade to infuse even more. This helps create a richer taste, enhancing the overall dish. If you're using frozen chicken, ensure it's fully thawed before marinating to prevent uneven flavor absorption.

If you're short on time, consider making a quick marinade using just teriyaki sauce. The marinade's sweet and salty balance is vital for tenderizing the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful. The natural enzymes in pineapple also help break down proteins, which can further enhance tenderness, so don't skip the pineapple chunks when cooking!

Choosing the Right Rice or Quinoa

The base of your Pineapple Chicken Teriyaki Bowl can significantly affect the dish's overall texture and flavor. I prefer using short-grain rice for its sticky quality, which holds sauces well. If opting for quinoa, keep in mind its nutty flavor that can complement the dish nicely. Rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove any bitterness, and cook until fluffy for the best result.

For an extra touch, you can also mix in some chopped cilantro or lime zest into your cooked rice or quinoa. This little addition can brighten up the bowl and provide fresh, vibrant flavors that counterbalance the rich teriyaki sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Teriyaki Bowl

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned
1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 onion, sliced
2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Combine these ingredients for a delicious and satisfying dish!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs, teriyaki sauce, and soy sauce. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add onions and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until tender.

Combine Ingredients

Add the chicken back to the skillet along with pineapple chunks. Cook for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through.

Serve

Spoon the chicken mixture over cooked rice or quinoa, and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Enjoy your homemade Pineapple Chicken Teriyaki Bowl!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of lime juice before serving to enhance the freshness!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the Pineapple Chicken Teriyaki Bowl in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish actually benefits from sitting overnight, as the flavors continue to meld together. When reheating, use the stovetop to achieve a better texture; just add a splash of water or extra teriyaki sauce to prevent drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and vegetable mixture separately from the rice or quinoa to maintain optimal texture. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge or use a microwave on low heat to speed up the process. Note that vegetables may lose some crunch but should still be delicious.

Variations and Additions

This recipe is versatile! For those who enjoy spice, consider adding a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes during cooking for a touch of heat. You might also swap the bell pepper for snap peas or bok choy, which will introduce a nice crunch and different flavor profile.

You can also make this dish vegetarian by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh, marinating them in the same teriyaki sauce for flavorful results. Ensure you press the tofu to remove excess moisture before marinating, which helps it absorb the flavors better and achieve a satisfying texture when cooked.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works great with tofu, shrimp, or beef.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute for regular soy sauce and teriyaki sauce.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables a few hours in advance.

→ What can I serve with this bowl?

It's delicious on its own, but you could also serve it with steamed broccoli or a fresh salad.