The sun-kissed beaches of Hawaii are a source of inspiration, and nothing captures that spirit quite like the Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl. With vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, this dish isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a celebration of flavor that brings the tropics right to your kitchen. Ideal for busy weeknights, my poke bowl recipe is quick to whip up, combining succulent chicken with crisp veggies, juicy pineapple, and creamy avocado—all served atop fluffy rice. This healthy and calorie-conscious meal is perfect for those moments when you want something delicious without the hassle of takeout. Plus, it’s a family-friendly option everyone will love! Curious about how you can make this Hawaiian classic your own? Let’s dive in and explore the recipe together!

Why is this Hawaiian Bowl a Must-Try?

Vibrant, Fresh Ingredients: This bowl is a colorful showcase of fresh produce, from bright pineapple to crunchy cucumbers. Each bite is a burst of flavors that transports you straight to a Hawaiian paradise.

Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this dish ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave home-cooked goodness without spending hours in the kitchen.

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize the bowl! Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu, or try quinoa instead of rice for a fun twist.

Nutritionally Balanced: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is a healthy choice that won’t weigh you down—ideal for those watching their calories!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a family dinner or a get-together with friends, this poke bowl is sure to win hearts. Pair it with a side of Garlic Chicken Broccoli for a delightful meal!

Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl Ingredients

• Dive into making this refreshing dish with basic ingredients that are easy to find!

For the Base

Cooked Jasmine Rice or Sushi Rice – This offers a fluffy base for your bowl; consider brown rice for extra fiber.

For the Fresh Toppings

Fresh Pineapple, diced – This adds a juicy sweetness; mango can be a fun substitute if you’re looking for a twist.
Cooked Edamame Beans – Packed with protein and a lovely green color; try using green peas if edamame isn’t available.
Red Onion, halved and sliced thinly – Brings sharpness and crunch; scallions can be a milder alternative.
Carrot, julienned – Adding vibrant color and crunch; bell peppers can replace carrots for different textures.
Avocado, diced – This creamy element balances out the dish perfectly; opt for sun-dried tomatoes as a non-fat alternative.
Baby Cucumbers, halved and sliced – These provide a refreshing crunch; zucchini could work as a substitute.
Spring Onions, sliced (green part only) – Essential for adding a burst of flavor; regular onions can also do the trick.
Toasted Sesame Seeds – They add a delicious nutty taste and texture; you can skip these or use chopped nuts for variation.

For the Chicken and Seasoning

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, diced – The star protein here; swap with pork or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Grated Garlic – This adds depth of flavor; feel free to omit for a milder taste.
Grated Ginger – Enhances freshness; ground ginger might work in a pinch!
Onion Powder – Delivers umami flavor; fresh onions can substitute if desired.
Soy Sauce – This is key for seasoning with that umami kick; tamari is an excellent gluten-free alternative.

For the Sauce

Maple Syrup – This provides a touch of sweetness to the sauce; honey or agave can be suitable substitutes.
Shaoxing Wine – Adds a lot of flavor complexity; rice vinegar can be used instead or you can omit it for an alcohol-free option.
Tomato Paste (puree) – Thickens your sauce and enriches the flavor; ketchup can be a last-minute substitute.
Pineapple Juice – This balances flavors with a sweet note; you can use fresh juice or other fruit juices as a swap.
Sriracha – This adds the heat; feel free to adjust to your spice preference or use chili paste instead.
Sesame Oil – Provides a rich, nutty flavor; neutral oil works if you want to omit it.

For the Spicy Mayo

Light Mayo – This serves as the base for your spicy sauce; Greek yogurt can create a lighter version.
Sriracha (for mayo) – Incorporates some heat; adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Water (optional) – This helps in adjusting the mayo’s consistency for drizzling if necessary.

Now that you’re ready with all the ingredients, let’s create a Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl that your family will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl

Step 1: Make the Spicy Mayo
In a small bowl, combine light mayo and sriracha to create your spicy mayo. Adjust the consistency with a splash of water, adding just enough to achieve a drizzle-friendly texture. Mix well until smooth and vibrant, then set aside to let the flavors blend while you prepare the other components of the Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In another bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, Shaoxing wine, pineapple juice, tomato paste, sesame oil, and sriracha. Keep mixing until you achieve a well-blended and thick sauce, ready to enhance the flavor of the diced chicken. This savory sauce will elevate your Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl, providing a delightful balance of sweetness and umami.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat and coat the bottom with cooking spray. Add diced boneless skinless chicken thighs, along with grated garlic, ginger, and onion powder. Sauté for about 6–8 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. This creates the perfect protein base for your poke bowl.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with the sautéed chicken, stirring well to coat all the pieces. Allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 4–5 minutes, or until the sauce reduces and thickens into a sticky glaze that clings to the chicken. This flavorful addition will make your Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl memorable and delicious.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
Start by spooning a generous portion of cooked Jasmine or sushi rice into a bowl, creating a soft base. Gently layer the tangy chicken on top, followed by a colorful arrangement of cucumber, pineapple, avocado, red onion, julienned carrot, edamame, and spring onions. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients will come together beautifully in your Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl.

Step 6: Finish Off and Serve
Finally, drizzle your homemade spicy mayo over the assembled bowl, adding that satisfying touch of heat and creaminess. Serve your Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl immediately, allowing everyone to experience the fresh, tropical flavors. The bright ingredients and beautiful presentation will surely impress family and friends alike!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl

Marinate for Flavor: Allow the diced chicken to marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavors in your Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl.
Watch the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown for the best texture. Undercooking can lead to chewy bites.
Prep Ahead: Chop and prepare your ingredients in advance to make assembly quick and effortless on busy weeknights.
Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to modify the amount of sriracha in the spicy mayo based on your family’s spice preferences.
Freshness Matters: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to truly elevate the flavors and enjoy a delicious and healthy meal.

What to Serve with Hawaiian Chicken Poke Bowl

Pair your poke bowl with delightful sides and flavors for a complete, satisfying meal that transports you to tropical paradise.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These add a sweet and crispy contrast to the bowl’s fresh ingredients, making for a comforting addition.
Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of mango, kiwi, and passion fruit will enhance the bowl’s flavors and provide a vibrant pop of color.
Miso Soup: The warm umami of miso soup complements the poke bowl beautifully, making it a cozy side perfect for any season.
Garlic Edamame: Lightly salted and tossed with garlic, these are a protein-packed, tasty appetizer that aligns with the poke bowl’s fresh vibe.
Cucumber Salad: A tangy and crunchy cucumber salad with sesame dressing creates a cooling effect, which is delightful against the spicy mayo’s heat.
Green Tea: Refreshing and full of antioxidants, the subtle flavors of green tea nicely balance out the richness of the poke bowl, enhancing your meal experience.
Chocolate Dipped Pineapple Skewers: End your meal on a sweet note with these delightful treats that echo the tropical theme while satisfying your sweet tooth.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Chicken Poke Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken and marinate it in the sauce up to 24 hours in advance to enhance flavor. Additionally, chop the vegetables and store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply cook the marinated chicken in a pan, assemble your bowl with rice as the base, and layer the prepped veggies. Drizzle with spicy mayo just before serving for a fresh taste experience. This way, you’ll have a delicious, nutritious meal ready in no time, just as vibrant and flavorful as if made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl

Fridge: Store any leftover Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl components in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep rice, chicken, and fresh toppings separated to maintain freshness.

Freezer: If you want to store the cooked chicken, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing.

Reheating: To reheat the chicken, simply microwave it for 1–2 minutes until heated through. If stored with rice, combine them during reheating for a quick meal.

Toppings: Avoid freezing fresh ingredients like avocado and cucumbers; instead, add them fresh when you’re ready to assemble your Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl.

Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl Variations

Feel free to explore these tantalizing twists, allowing your Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl to shine in new ways.

Grilled Shrimp: Swap chicken for marinated grilled shrimp for a seafood twist that adds a smoky flavor.
Tofu Delight: For a vegetarian option, use cubed and sautéed tofu, soaking up the savory sauce beautifully.
Quinoa Base: Replace rice with quinoa for a nutritious, protein-packed base that has a satisfying nutty flavor.
Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, spiralize cauliflower or pulse it into rice-like bits and sauté before serving.
Tropical Fruit Medley: Add diced mango or papaya for an extra burst of sweetness and a delightful tropical vibe.
Extra Crunch: Toss in toasted almonds or sunflower seeds to give your poke bowl a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
Spice It Up: Incorporate jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a fiery kick that elevates the dish’s heat level.
Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can brighten the entire bowl, providing a burst of refreshing flavor.

Feel free to combine a few of these ideas! If you’re in the mood for more delicious chicken recipes, check out our mouthwatering Chicken Rice Bowl and the zesty Bang Chicken Bowl.

Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl Recipe FAQs

What kind of rice should I use for the Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl?
You can use cooked Jasmine rice or sushi rice as a base for your poke bowl. If you’re looking for a healthier option, brown rice is a great substitute since it adds extra fiber and a nuttier flavor.

How long can I store leftovers of the Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl?
Store any leftover components in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend keeping the rice, chicken, and fresh toppings separate to maintain their freshness and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply assemble the bowl fresh!

Can I freeze the Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Make sure to let the chicken cool completely before freezing. For best results, don’t freeze fresh ingredients like avocado or cucumbers, as they’ll lose their texture. Just add those when you’re ready to serve.

What should I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
If your chicken is browning too quickly on the outside but still raw on the inside, try lowering the heat. Additionally, ensure that the pieces are uniformly diced; smaller chunks cook more evenly. Aim for pieces about 1-inch in size, and give them enough space in the pan to cook thoroughly without crowding.

Are there any allergies I should consider with this recipe?
This Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl is generally gluten-free if you use tamari instead of soy sauce. However, always check for allergies, particularly to ingredients like soy, sesame, and avocado. If making for someone with food restrictions, feel free to swap out any problematic ingredients with suitable alternatives.

How can I make this dish low-carb?
To create a low-carb version of the Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl, substitute the rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice. This will give you the same delicious experience while cutting down on carbs significantly. Enjoy personalizing it to fit your diet!