A vibrant, island-inspired dish that brings together juicy teriyaki chicken, colorful stir-fried vegetables, and the sweet tang of fresh pineapple – all served in a stunning, edible pineapple bowl. This recipe combines savory and tropical flavors for a visually striking and deliciously satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chicken Teriyaki Pineapple Bowls offer a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for anyone seeking a creative twist on a classic teriyaki dish. The natural sweetness of pineapple pairs beautifully with the richness of homemade teriyaki sauce, while the presentation in pineapple halves makes this meal ideal for entertaining or adding flair to a weeknight dinner. It’s quick, easy, and full of fresh, wholesome ingredients.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 whole pineapples, halved and cored
1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cubed
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1/2 cup diced pineapple (from the scooped core)
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 tbsp sesame seeds

Teriyaki Sauce:

1/3 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry)

directions

Slice each pineapple in half lengthwise and scoop out the center, leaving a 1/2-inch thick shell. Reserve 1/2 cup of the diced pineapple from the core for the filling.
In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue simmering for about 2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Set aside.
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Add chopped bell pepper and reserved diced pineapple to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 more minutes.
Pour the teriyaki sauce into the skillet and toss to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.
Spoon the teriyaki chicken mixture into each pineapple half.
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: 370 kcal

Variations

Vegan Option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use maple syrup instead of honey.
Spicy Twist: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce for heat.
Extra Veggies: Include snap peas, carrots, or broccoli for added color and nutrients.
Rice Base: Serve the chicken mixture over steamed jasmine or brown rice inside the pineapple.
Low Carb: Omit the sugar in the sauce and skip rice or noodles to keep it light.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken teriyaki filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. It’s best to store the filling separately from the pineapple shells to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

What type of pineapple should I use?

Use ripe, firm pineapples. They should have a sweet aroma at the base and slightly yield to pressure when squeezed.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store separately and reheat just before serving.

Can I freeze the teriyaki chicken filling?

Yes, the filling can be frozen for up to 2 months in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

What’s the best substitute for fresh ginger?

You can use 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger as a substitute for 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Fresh pineapple is recommended for flavor and presentation, but canned pineapple can be used in the filling if fresh is unavailable.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish fully gluten-free.

Can I grill the pineapple boats?

Yes, grilling the pineapple halves before filling them adds a delicious smoky flavor.

What protein alternatives work well?

Shrimp, tofu, or even beef strips make great alternatives to chicken.

Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?

Homemade sauce gives better flavor control, but high-quality bottled teriyaki sauce works in a pinch.

How can I make it lower in sugar?

Reduce or eliminate the brown sugar and honey, and add more garlic or ginger for flavor depth.

Conclusion

Chicken Teriyaki Pineapple Bowls offer a visually stunning, flavor-packed dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to prepare. With tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a sweet-savory teriyaki glaze, all served in a pineapple shell, this recipe turns an ordinary meal into a tropical dining experience. Whether for a dinner party or a weeknight treat, it’s a satisfying and wholesome choice that’s sure to impress.