Teriyaki Shredded Chicken and Pineapple Rice Bowls Recipe
If you love sweet and savory flavors, this Teriyaki Shredded Chicken and Pineapple Rice Bowl is the perfect meal! The tender, juicy shredded chicken is coated in a rich teriyaki sauce, then served over a fluffy bed of rice with sweet, juicy pineapple chunks. Topped with green onions and sesame seeds, this dish is simple, delicious, and packed with flavor.
I first made this dish when I wanted something quick, flavorful, and satisfying but didn’t want to spend hours cooking. With just a few ingredients, I had a restaurant-quality meal at home in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover shredded chicken while still making something exciting and new!
Let’s get started!
⏱ Recipe Time & Servings
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 15 minutes | 4 servings |
🛒 Ingredients for My Teriyaki Shredded Chicken and Pineapple Rice Bowls
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
⭐ Pro Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Pineapple – Fresh pineapple gives the dish extra natural sweetness and a juicy burst of flavor.
- Marinate the Chicken – If time allows, let the shredded chicken soak in teriyaki sauce for a few hours before heating—it deepens the flavors.
- Caramelize the Pineapple – For extra flavor, sauté or grill the pineapple chunks for a few minutes to bring out their natural sugars.
- Make It Spicy – Add a drizzle of Sriracha, crushed red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Add More Veggies – Stir in steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
🍳 Tools Required
- Medium saucepan or skillet (for heating the chicken)
- Pot or rice cooker (for cooking rice)
- Knife and cutting board (for chopping green onions)
- Mixing spoon (for stirring the chicken and sauce)
🔄 Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut rice | White or brown rice | A tropical, slightly sweet twist |
| Grilled shrimp | Shredded chicken | A light, seafood variation |
| Cauliflower rice | Regular rice | A lower-carb alternative |
| Soy-glazed tofu | Chicken | A delicious vegetarian option |
| Hoisin sauce | Teriyaki sauce | A richer, slightly smoky flavor |
⏳ Make-Ahead Tips
- Shred the chicken ahead of time – Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days for easy meal prep.
- Make the rice in advance – Keep it refrigerated and reheat with a splash of water to restore fluffiness.
- Marinate the chicken overnight – This helps intensify the teriyaki flavor!
🥄 Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Teriyaki Shredded Chicken and Pineapple Rice Bowl
Step 1: Heat the Chicken
In a medium saucepan or skillet, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken with 1 cup of teriyaki sauce.
Heat over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is warm and well-coated in sauce.
Taste and season with salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice
If you haven’t already cooked the rice, prepare 2 cups of rice according to package instructions.
For extra flavor, cook the rice in chicken broth instead of water.
Step 3: Assemble the Bowls
Scoop a generous portion of rice into each bowl.
Top with teriyaki chicken, then sprinkle on 1 cup of pineapple chunks (fresh or canned).
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over each bowl.
For extra flair, drizzle a little extra teriyaki sauce on top or add a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.
Serve immediately and enjoy your sweet, savory, and tangy teriyaki bowl!
🍽 Serving Suggestions for Teriyaki Shredded Chicken and Pineapple Rice Bowls
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Steamed Broccoli | A fresh, crunchy veggie to balance the dish. |
| Miso Soup | A light, umami-rich starter. |
| Cucumber Salad | Refreshing and crisp with a hint of acidity. |
| Spring Rolls | A perfect light appetizer with a hint of sweetness. |
🥡 Leftovers and Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway, or heat in a pan over medium-low heat.
- Freeze: Store chicken separately in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
🥦 Nutritional Information and Benefits of This Dish
- High in Protein – The shredded chicken provides a great source of lean protein.
- Balanced Flavors – The pineapple adds natural sweetness to balance the salty teriyaki.
- Rich in Vitamins – Pineapple is packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants for immune support.
- Customizable for Any Diet – Easily made gluten-free, low-carb, or vegetarian.
🍷 Suggested Drink That Pairs With The Dish
Best Drink Pairing: Pineapple Mojito or Iced Green Tea 🍹🍵
Why? The light, tropical flavors of a pineapple mojito enhance the sweetness of the dish, while the minty freshness balances the richness. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, an iced green tea provides a crisp, refreshing contrast to the teriyaki sauce.
❤️ Enjoy!
This Teriyaki Shredded Chicken and Pineapple Rice Bowl is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal, meal prep, or a fun family dinner, it’s easy, delicious, and satisfying!
Give it a try and let me know how you liked it! 🍍🍚✨
