Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pineapple Bowls: A Taste of Paradise
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Hawaii with our delectable Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pineapple Bowls. This vibrant dish combines tender, smoky chicken, juicy pineapple, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all nestled atop a bed of fluffy rice. Each bite is a symphony of sweet, savory, and tangy notes that will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of the Aloha State.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pineapple:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions, thinly sliced
For the Rice:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, sesame oil, ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Prepare the Pineapple:
- In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Toss the pineapple chunks in the cornstarch mixture to coat.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil.
- Add the pineapple chunks and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until caramelized and slightly tender.
Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a steamer basket or microwave-safe bowl, steam the broccoli, carrots, and red bell pepper until tender-crisp.
- Toss the steamed vegetables with the green onions.
Make the Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, brown sugar, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until thickened.
Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide the rice evenly among four bowls.
- Top with the sliced chicken, caramelized pineapple, and steamed vegetables.
- Drizzle with the Hawaiian BBQ sauce.
- Garnish with additional green onions or sesame seeds, if desired.
Tips:
- For a smoky flavor, grill the pineapple chunks alongside the chicken.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can pan-fry the chicken in a skillet over medium heat.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables in your bowls. Some other popular options include snap peas, edamame, or corn.
- Serve the bowls with a side of Hawaiian bread or rice for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information:
Each serving (1 bowl) contains approximately:
- Calories: 500
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
Conclusion:
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Pineapple Bowls are a vibrant and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The combination of tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and fresh vegetables creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re a fan of Hawaiian cuisine or simply looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, these bowls are sure to become a favorite. So gather your ingredients, fire up your grill, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport you to the tropical paradise of Hawaii.