Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Rice with Teriyaki Chicken and Coconut Rice Recipe

Bringing the bold flavors of the Hawaiian islands to your kitchen, this Hawaiian pineapple rice recipe combines sweet, savory, and smoky elements in every bite. Juicy grilled chicken marinated in a pineapple-soy glaze rests on a bed of creamy coconut rice, topped with grilled pineapple rings for a tropical twist. The dish balances tangy marinade, tender meat, and the subtle nuttiness of coconut milk-infused rice for a meal that feels both festive and approachable. With minimal effort, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results perfect for dinner parties or cozy weeknight meals. Its fresh, vibrant flavors and ease of preparation make it a standout choice for home cooks who want bold Hawaiian cuisine without leaving their kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Pineapple Rice Recipe

Quick and easy — Chops the chicken, marinates for 1 hour, and cooks in under 40 minutes
Balanced flavors — Sweet pineapple, savory soy, and smoky char create complexity
Adaptable — Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variations
Make-ahead-friendly — Marinate up to 24 hours to maximize flavor
Impressively fresh — Fresh garlic, honey, and herbs brighten every component

Ingredients

Hawaiian Chicken

1 1/2 lbs chicken tenderloins (7-8 pieces)
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

Coconut Rice

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the chicken
Blend pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, and canola oil in a blender until smooth. Place chicken in a zip-top bag, pour in marinade, and massage to coat. Let rest for 1 hour at room temperature or up to 24 hours in the fridge.
Cook the chicken
Preheat a grill pan, cast iron skillet, or non-stick pan. Cook chicken over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes total, flipping halfway. Once reaches 165°F internally, brush both sides with honey and remove from heat.
Grill the pineapple
Slice pineapple into 1/2- to 1-inch rounds. Grill for 1–2 minutes on each side until slightly caramelized and charred.
Make the coconut rice
In a pot, combine rice, coconut milk, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 17–20 minutes. Let rest 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Stir in chopped parsley just before serving.
Assemble and serve
Transfer cooked rice to a serving platter. Top with sliced chicken, grilled pineapple, and extra parsley for garnish.

Expert Tips & Variations

Marinate up to 2 hours: For bolder flavor without over-softening the meat
Swap canola oil: Use 2 tbsp of melted coconut oil or avocado oil
Gluten-free option: Substitute gluten-containing soy sauce with tamari
Boost sweetness: Add 1 tbsp crushed pineapple to the chicken marinade
Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with marinated tofu or portobello mushrooms
Common mistake alert: Avoid over-fluffing the rice after resting — gentle mixing preserves texture

How to Serve Hawaiian Pineapple Rice

This tropical-inspired dish shines on its own as a main course. Pair with chilled mango slices, pickled jalapeños, or a crisp green salad for balance. The pre-dinner cocktail hour is perfect for tropical mocktails with pineapple and coconut accents. It’s ideal for summer BBQs, Hawaiian-themed luaus, or as a fresh twist on weeknight meals.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers keep up to 3–4 days refrigerated in airtight containers
Freeze chicken and rice separately for up to 1 month
Reheat chicken on the stovetop in a non-stick skillet for 2–3 minutes per side
Loose rice regains fluffiness in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes with 1 tbsp water

Nutrition Information Per Serving

Estimates are based on 4 servings: 480 calories, 30g protein, 40g carbs, 18g fat.

Notes: Protein and carb counts may vary slightly based on chicken thickness and rice batch yield. Honey and ketchup contribute natural sugars, while coconut milk adds healthy fats.

Give It a Try!

Transform your dinner routine with this easy Hawaiian pineapple rice recipe. The harmonious blend of flavors will remind you of a beachfront buffet without the airfare. Let the aroma of grilled pineapple and coconut milk fill your kitchen — it’s the perfect canvas for creativity. Try adding toasted sesame seeds or a squeeze of lime for extra flair. Did you try this recipe or adapt it to your tastes? Share your feedback or variations in the comments below!

Layan