Sticky Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl

Name: Sticky Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp water; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 cups cooked jasmine rice; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: International Food Favorites

I love making this Sticky Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl because it’s a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that simply bursts in your mouth. The juicy pineapple combines beautifully with tender chicken and fluffy rice, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. The best part is how quickly it comes together—perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner party. Once you taste it, you’ll be hooked on its tropical taste and delightful aroma, making it a staple in my kitchen!

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-16T04:33:36.365Z

When I first tried combining pineapple and chicken, I was amazed at how well the flavors complemented each other. The sticky sauce made with soy sauce, honey, and ginger takes the dish to another level. I love adding a splash of lime juice at the end to brighten everything up. It’s a small step that really elevates the flavors!

One trick I’ve learned is to let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes—this really helps the flavor penetrate the meat, making each bite delicious. The combination of textures, with crispy veggies and tender chicken, is what I enjoy most in this vibrant bowl.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory balance that's irresistible
A complete meal in one bowl – no fuss!
Perfectly sticky sauce that coats each ingredient

Unlocking the Flavor

The combination of soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic creates a harmonious marinade for the chicken. This blend not only infuses the chicken with deep umami flavors but also helps tenderize the meat, resulting in a juicy texture. Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes, but if you have more time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator will amplify the flavors even more.

When cooking the chicken, aim for a medium heat to ensure even cooking. You want it to brown nicely without burning. Look for that golden color to develop on the chicken pieces, which adds both flavor and visual appeal. If the chicken starts to stick to the skillet, a splash of water can help release it without sacrificing that beautiful caramelization.

Building the Perfect Bowl

Using jasmine rice not only adds a fragrant component to the dish but also balances the stickiness of the sauce beautifully. If you're short on time, you can opt for pre-cooked rice, but freshly steamed rice retains its fluffiness and provides the best texture contrast. A great tip is to let the rice rest for a few minutes after cooking to remove excess moisture before layering it in your bowl.

For the bell peppers, feel free to mix and match colors based on your preference. Red, yellow, and orange peppers not only add a pop of color but also varying levels of sweetness. They can be sliced and sautéed briefly in the same skillet after the chicken for additional flavor and crunch—just be sure they remain vibrant and slightly firm for the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

For the Chicken and Sauce

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp water
1 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Rice Bowl

2 cups cooked jasmine rice
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Sticky Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl:

Marinate Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned.

Make Sauce

In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in water, then stir it into the skillet. Add pineapple and cook until thickened.

Prepare Rice Bowl

In serving bowls, layer cooked rice, bell peppers, and the sticky chicken with pineapple on top. Garnish with green onions and cilantro.

Serve

Serve with lime wedges for an extra zing!

Enjoy your deliciously sticky and flavorful bowl!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Sticky Pineapple Chicken Rice Bowl can be prepared in advance for a convenient weeknight meal. After cooking the chicken and sauce, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, just reheat the chicken gently over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking.

For the rice, consider cooking it in a larger batch to keep on hand. You can freeze portions of the rice in airtight bags for up to three months. When reheating, sprinkle a bit of water over the rice and cover it in the microwave to achieve that fluffy texture again.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to switch things up, try substituting the chicken with shrimp or firm tofu for an alternative protein source. Both would be deliciously complemented by the pineapple sauce; just adjust cooking times accordingly. Shrimp only needs around 3-5 minutes to cook through, while tofu should be pan-fried until golden before adding to the sauce.

For added spice, consider incorporating a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the marinade. This adds a nice kick that balances the sweetness of the pineapple and honey. Alternatively, you could experiment with different fruits like mango or peaches to give the dish a unique twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken but ensure it is thoroughly thawed and drained before marinating.

→ What can I substitute for soy sauce?

You can use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and adjust cooking times accordingly.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

You can marinate the chicken in advance, but it's best to cook it fresh for optimal texture and flavor.