Get ready to transport your taste buds to the tropical paradise of Hawaii with our Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Bowls! This vibrant dish combines succulent grilled chicken marinated in a savory teriyaki sauce, paired with sweet pineapple and colorful bell peppers, all served over a fluffy bed of rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how to create a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green onion, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs with teriyaki sauce, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) in the refrigerator for deeper flavor penetration.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F). Clean and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade, reserving the remaining sauce. Pat chicken dry with paper towels to promote better grill marks.
- Grill chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Baste occasionally with reserved marinade during cooking.
- While chicken is grilling, slice red bell pepper into thin strips and chop green onions.
- After chicken is cooked, let rest for 3-5 minutes to retain juices. Then slice into diagonal strips.
- Assemble bowls by placing cooked rice as the base, topping with sliced grilled chicken, pineapple chunks, and bell pepper strips.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds over the top.
- Serve immediately while chicken is warm, with extra teriyaki sauce on the side if desired.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting them soak for up to 4 hours will deepen the flavor even more!
- Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill or grill pan is preheated to medium-high heat (around 400°F) before adding the chicken. This will help achieve those beautiful grill marks and a nice sear.
- Don’t Skip the Pat Dry: After removing the chicken from the marinade, pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting a good sear and preventing the chicken from steaming on the grill.
- Baste for Extra Flavor: As the chicken cooks, baste it occasionally with the reserved marinade. This adds an extra layer of flavor and keeps the chicken moist.
- Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
- Customize Your Bowls: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or toppings to the bowls. Avocado, carrots, or even a drizzle of sriracha can elevate your dish even further!
- Serve Warm: Enjoy the bowls immediately while the chicken is warm for the best experience. Extra teriyaki sauce on the side is always a hit!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 120mg