A Hawaiian-inspired chicken poke bowl is a delicious and healthy meal that combines marinated chicken with fresh vegetables, rice, and various toppings. While traditional poke bowls typically feature raw fish, this version substitutes chicken for those who prefer cooked protein.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- Chicken breast or thighs: Boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Soy sauce: For marinating the chicken.
- Sesame oil: Adds a nutty flavor to the marinade.
- Honey or brown sugar: For a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic: Minced, for added flavor.
- Ginger: Grated, for a fresh, spicy kick.
- Lime juice: Adds acidity and brightens the marinade.
For the Bowl:
- Cooked rice: White rice, brown rice, or sushi rice.
- Cucumber: Thinly sliced or diced.
- Avocado: Sliced or diced.
- Edamame: Shelled and cooked.
- Pineapple: Fresh, diced for a tropical touch.
- Red cabbage: Shredded, adds a crunchy texture.
- Carrots: Julienned or shredded.
- Radishes: Thinly sliced, for a peppery crunch.
- Green onions: Sliced, for garnish.
- Sesame seeds: Toasted, for topping.
- Nori (seaweed): Optional, cut into thin strips.
For the Sauce:
- Soy sauce or tamari: Base of the sauce.
- Sriracha or other hot sauce: For heat.
- Mayo: For a creamy element.
- Sesame oil: For flavor.
- Lime juice: For acidity.
Preparation:
Marinate and Cook the Chicken:
- Prepare the Marinade: Mix soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, ginger, and lime juice in a bowl.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the marinated chicken until it’s fully cooked and slightly caramelized.
Assemble the Poke Bowl:
- Prepare the Rice: Cook your choice of rice according to package instructions and let it cool slightly.
- Arrange the Bowl: In a bowl, start with a base of rice. Arrange the cucumber, avocado, edamame, pineapple, red cabbage, carrots, and radishes around the bowl.
- Add the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken in the center of the bowl.
- Drizzle with Sauce: Mix the sauce ingredients and drizzle over the entire bowl.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds, green onions, and nori strips if using.
Serving:
The poke bowl can be served warm or at room temperature. It’s a balanced meal that combines protein, vegetables, and grains, with a mix of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that make it both satisfying and refreshing.