Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl Recipe

If you’re looking for a fresh and vibrant meal that’s full of flavor, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! This Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It captures the essence of the islands with its colorful ingredients and mouthwatering taste, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re a poke bowl fanatic or trying it for the first time, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a beautiful bowl that’s loaded with nutrients. Plus, it’s customizable, so everyone can enjoy their own personal twist on this classic Hawaiian dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This poke bowl comes together in just 35 minutes—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
• Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, maple syrup, and sriracha creates a delicious marinade that makes the chicken juicy and satisfying.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Healthy and Fresh: Packed with veggies and lean protein, this bowl is as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Fun to Assemble: Building your poke bowl is like creating your own edible masterpiece—let your creativity shine!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl Recipe, you’ll need some simple yet wholesome ingredients. Each component brings its own unique flavor to the mix, resulting in a delightful meal that’s bursting with freshness.

For the Spicy Mayo

• 4 tablespoons of light mayo
• 2 teaspoons of sriracha
• 1-2 tablespoons of water

For the Chicken

• 600g of uncooked boneless skinless chicken thighs, trimmed of visible fat and diced
• 2 teaspoons of grated garlic
• 2 teaspoons of grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons of maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of tomato paste (puree)
• 100ml of pineapple juice (from a carton)
• 2 teaspoons of sriracha
• 2 teaspoons of sesame oil

For the Bowl

• 640g of cooked jasmine rice or sushi rice
• 200g (7oz) of fresh pineapple, diced
• 1 cup of cooked edamame beans
• small red onion, halved and sliced thinly
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 140g of avocado, diced
• 3 spring onions, sliced (green part only)
• 2 baby cucumbers, halved and sliced
• 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame seeds

Variations

One of the best things about this poke bowl is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: If chicken isn’t your thing, try using grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option!
• Change up the grains: Substitute jasmine rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
• Add more crunch: Toss in some radishes or shredded cabbage for an extra layer of texture.
• Experiment with sauces: Swap the spicy mayo for a sesame ginger dressing for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spicy Mayo

In a small bowl, mix together the light mayonnaise and sriracha. Add just enough water until you reach your desired consistency for drizzling over your poke bowl. This creamy kick adds an exciting flavor component!

Step 2: Create the Marinade

In another small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, Shaoxing apple vinegar, pineapple juice, tomato paste, sesame oil, and sriracha. This marinade will infuse your chicken with sweet and savory goodness—trust me; it’s essential!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and spray it with low-calorie cooking spray. Add in the diced chicken along with garlic, ginger, and onion powder. Fry until golden brown while turning occasionally. Removing it from the pan allows you to build flavor in your sauce.

Step 4: Glaze the Chicken

Pour the prepared sauce into the frying pan and heat until it begins to bubble gently. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan so that it can absorb all those wonderful flavors. Let it simmer until caramelized—this step creates that sticky sweetness we all love.

Step 5: Assemble Your Poke Bowl

Start by placing warm cooked rice at the bottom of each serving bowl. Sprinkle your luscious chicken on top along with cucumber slices, fresh pineapple chunks, diced avocado, red onion slivers, julienned carrot strips, cooked edamame beans, and green onions. It’s like building your own little island paradise!

Step 6: Finish With Spicy Mayo

Drizzle that delicious spicy mayo over everything—don’t hold back! Enjoy your beautiful Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl while basking in its vibrant colors and incredible flavors!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl Recipe

Creating the perfect poke bowl is all about balance and flavor, so here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time!

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in taste. Opt for fresh produce and high-quality chicken to elevate your poke bowl experience.
• Customize Your Protein: While this recipe features chicken, you can experiment with other cooked proteins like shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. This allows for flexibility based on dietary preferences.
• Prep Ahead of Time: To save time during busy weeknights, prepare your ingredients in advance. Cook the rice and chop the veggies a day ahead, making assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to eat.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less sriracha in the spicy mayo and sauce, then add more gradually until you find your perfect level of spice.
• Add Variety: Don’t hesitate to toss in other colorful vegetables like bell peppers or radishes. A variety of textures and colors not only makes your poke bowl visually appealing but also adds nutritional value.

How to Serve Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl Recipe

Presentation is key when serving your Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl. A colorful, well-arranged bowl not only looks appetizing but also enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh herbal note that complements the umami flavors of the chicken.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime over the bowl brightens up all the flavors and adds a zesty touch.

Side Dishes

• Seaweed Salad: A light, tangy salad that brings an oceanic flavor which pairs beautifully with the chicken poke bowl.
• Miso Soup: This warm soup is comforting and complements the freshness of your poke bowl, making for a satisfying meal.
• Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles can provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple and maple syrup in your bowl.
• Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing side that includes fruits like mangoes and papayas will enhance the Hawaiian theme and provide a sweet finish to your meal.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your own Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl! Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the components in advance and assemble them when you’re ready to eat, making it a convenient and healthy option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the poke bowl ingredients to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover chicken, rice, and toppings in separate airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cooked chicken can be frozen for longer storage. Allow it to cool, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Note: It’s best not to freeze fresh vegetables or cooked rice as their texture may change.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat chicken in a frying pan over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• If using leftover rice, sprinkle with water and cover; microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I use other proteins in my Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl Recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe features chicken, you can easily substitute with tofu, cooked shrimp, or even grilled vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.

What makes this Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl Recipe special?

This poke bowl stands out due to its vibrant flavors from the marinade and fresh ingredients. The combination of sweet pineapple, creamy avocado, and savory chicken creates a delightful experience that transports you straight to Hawaii!

How long does it take to prepare the Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl Recipe?

Prep time is about 20 minutes and cooking takes around 15 minutes. In total, you can have this delicious poke bowl ready in just 35 minutes!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Poke Bowl Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings a touch of the tropics right into your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or sharing with friends at a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!