Name: Hawaiian Chicken with Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Chicken breasts; 1 cup Rice (uncooked); 1 cup Pineapple chunks (canned or fresh); 1/2 cup Soy sauce; 1/4 cup Brown sugar; 1 piece Bell pepper (sliced); 1 piece Onion (sliced); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); Salt and pepper (to taste); Green onions (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

If you are searching for a dinner idea that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights, Hawaiian Chicken with Rice may just be your new favorite go-to. This dish is a cheerful medley of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and savory soy sauce, all served atop a fluffy bed of rice. Imagine the scent of caramelized brown sugar mingling with juicy pineapple wafting through your kitchen—no tropical vacation required! It’s the kind of meal that brightens up your table and brings a little sunshine indoors, even on the busiest days.

Did you know Hawaiian-inspired food often reflects an amazing blend of Asian and Polynesian influences? That fusion of sweet and tangy flavors is what makes this recipe so memorable. Plus, it’s so easy to put together, you won’t spend hours in the kitchen. If you’ve loved my Easy Teriyaki Chicken recipe before, you’ll find this one just as approachable and maybe even more fun. Get ready to fall for these irresistible flavors—your whole family will be begging for seconds!

What is Hawaiian Chicken with Rice?

Hawaiian Chicken with Rice is exactly as delightful as it sounds. But why is it called “Hawaiian” when you don’t need to catch a flight to soak in its tropical vibes? Maybe it’s the juicy pineapple chunks or that sweet-and-savory sauce that reminds you of luaus and island parties. After all, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, right? Mixing chicken, veggies, and pineapple together in one dish might sound adventurous, but it just works—like a vacation on a plate! Wondering what makes it so special? Only one way to find out—grab your skillet and try it tonight!

Why You’ll Love This

There’s so much to love about this recipe. First, the star of the show: perfectly juicy chicken combined with luscious pineapple chunks, bathed in a deliciously sticky-sweet soy and brown sugar sauce. Each bite has the power to transport you straight to your own little island getaway.

Making this meal at home is not only more cost-effective than takeout, but it also allows you to tweak the flavors to suit your preferences. Whether you want to add extra pineapple or use whatever veggies you have on hand, you’re in control. Speaking of flavor, the clever combination of caramelized onions, garlicky undertones, and pops of fresh bell pepper add layers of texture and taste that everyone will remember.

If you enjoy the sweet-savory notes in my Pineapple Fried Rice, you’ll find this dish equally crave-worthy, but with its own unique twist. Ready for a kitchen adventure? Give this Hawaiian Chicken with Rice a try and see why it’s become a family favorite!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Hawaiian Chicken with Rice is a weeknight dinner champion: quick to assemble, full of appetizing flavors, and no-fuss clean up. The recipe shines with straightforward steps, a no-mess skillet approach, and a mouthwatering sweet-and-savory glaze. Don’t worry about complex techniques—just simple, delicious cooking that takes only about 35 minutes from start to finish. You’ll love how the ingredients meld together and how easily you can personalize the dish for your family or guests.

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
1 cup rice (uncooked)
1 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Green onions, for garnish

Step-by-Step

Start by washing your rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook it according to package instructions and set aside to keep warm.
While the rice cooks, slice the chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized chunks. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil, then toss in the chicken. Sauté for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Stir in the sliced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the pineapple chunks.
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and brown sugar until the sugar dissolves. Pour this mixture over the chicken, pineapple, and veggies. Stir well to combine.
Simmer everything together for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken and vegetables. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve the chicken and sauce over warm rice. Garnish with fresh green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

That’s it—your kitchen will smell incredible! Dig in and enjoy.

What to Serve Hawaiian Chicken with Rice With

This main course is flavorful enough to stand on its own, but for a complete meal, why not add a crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette? A side of steamed broccoli, snap peas, or even roasted asparagus complements the sweetness nicely. Want to go even more tropical? Serve with grilled pineapple or a simple fruit salad. For drinks, iced tea or sparkling water with a twist of lime keeps things light and refreshing. This meal is all about versatile pairings, so get creative and make it your own!

Top Tips for Perfecting

If you’re out of pineapple chunks, canned works just as well as fresh, but be sure to drain them before adding to prevent excess liquid.
Try swapping bell peppers for snap peas or add some carrots for extra crunch. The sauce works great with lots of different veggies.
For extra flavor, marinate your chicken in a little soy sauce and garlic beforehand—just 15 minutes will do!
Don’t rush the caramelization of onions and peppers; letting them get slightly golden boosts the flavor.
Watch the sauce as it simmers so it thickens but doesn’t burn. Stir often, especially near the end.

Common mistakes include overcrowding the skillet (cook in batches if necessary) and under-seasoning—be sure to taste and adjust as needed.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through. If you prefer, gently reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. The dish holds up well when reheated, making it a great option for meal prep or busy weeks!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay juicy and tender, making them a flavorful alternative to breasts.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it safe for gluten-free diets.

Can I add other veggies?
Yes! Feel free to add broccoli, carrots, snap peas, or whatever veggies you love or have on hand.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?
Substitute with honey, maple syrup, or white sugar if needed. Each option gives the sauce a slightly different flavor profile.

How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to bring a gentle kick to the dish.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Chicken with Rice brings together the irresistible magic of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors—all in one quick and family-friendly recipe. With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, this meal is proof that weeknight dinners don’t have to be boring or time-consuming. Whether you’re looking for new ways to jazz up chicken or craving a taste of the tropics, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and discover how delightfully easy homemade Hawaiian-style meals can be. Enjoy, and don’t forget to check out more flavorful recipes for your next kitchen adventure!