Name: Hawaiian Chicken Rice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenderloins; 1/2 fresh ripe pineapple; 1/4 cup pineapple juice; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 3 tbsp ketchup; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 5-6 cloves fresh garlic; 2 tbsp canola oil; 2 tbsp honey; 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice; 3/4 cup coconut milk; 3/4 cup water; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Jump to Recipe

Hawaiian Chicken Rice brings bold island flavor straight to your dinner table with minimal effort. Juicy marinated chicken, sweet grilled pineapple, and fragrant coconut rice come together in one balanced meal that works for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. This recipe delivers salty, sweet, and tangy notes in every bite while staying practical and prep-friendly. If you enjoy meals that feel special but stay simple, Hawaiian Chicken Rice belongs in your regular rotation.

Story

Hawaiian Chicken Rice became one of my go-to dinners after I started craving meals that felt comforting yet fresh at the same time. The combination of grilled chicken, pineapple, and coconut rice always reminded me of warm-weather cooking, even on hectic evenings. I kept refining this Hawaiian Chicken Rice recipe until it delivered bold flavor without complicated steps. The balance of sweet pineapple, savory marinade, and creamy rice makes Hawaiian Chicken Rice satisfying without feeling heavy. It also fits perfectly into weekly meal prep because Hawaiian Chicken Rice reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

Hawaiian Chicken

1 1/2 pounds chicken tenderloins (7–8 pieces)
1/2 fresh ripe pineapple
1/4 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
5–6 cloves fresh garlic
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 tablespoons honey

Coconut Rice

1 cup basmati or jasmine rice
3/4 cup coconut milk
3/4 cup water
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Blend pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, and canola oil until smooth, then place the chicken in a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over it. Massage the bag so every piece gets coated, then let it rest in the refrigerator for at least one hour while you slice the pineapple and measure the rice ingredients.

Cooking Instructions

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and lightly grease the surface, then cook the marinated chicken until it reaches 165°F, turning halfway through for even cooking. Brush honey over the cooked chicken, remove it from the heat, and grill the pineapple slices until lightly caramelized on both sides. Simultaneously, simmer the rice with coconut milk and water until tender, then fluff gently before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not rush the marinating step because the flavor depends on that resting time, and avoid turning the chicken too often since that prevents proper browning. Keep the heat moderate so the sugars in the marinade do not burn before the chicken cooks through.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Use ripe pineapple for natural sweetness and choose jasmine rice if you want a more aromatic coconut rice base. Let the chicken rest briefly after cooking so the juices stay inside when sliced.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve the chicken and pineapple hot over coconut rice and finish with chopped parsley for a fresh contrast. This dish pairs well with simple steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep the rice moist.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Chicken Rice proves that a flavorful, satisfying dinner does not need complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. With its sweet, savory balance and make-ahead convenience, this recipe fits real-life cooking while still feeling special. Once you try it, Hawaiian Chicken Rice will likely earn a permanent spot in your meal plan.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Hawaiian Chicken Rice ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe works very well for meal prep because the flavors deepen after resting and the rice stays creamy when reheated properly.

What cut of chicken works best for this recipe?

Chicken tenderloins cook evenly and stay juicy, but boneless skinless chicken thighs also work well if you prefer darker meat.

Can I cook this without a grill pan?

A standard nonstick skillet works perfectly, and you can also bake the chicken if needed, then broil briefly for color.