Hawaiian Pizza Chicken Bowls

This Hawaiian pizza chicken bowl combines bright pineapple sweetness with savory chicken and melty cheese to deliver a fresh twist on classic comfort food. Designed as a highprotein, glutenfree meal prep, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a dish full of bold, balanced flavors.

I first made this on a busy weeknight when I craved pizza but wanted something healthier. The chicken stayed juicy and the pineapple added such a bright contrast that my whole family enjoyed it more than traditional pizza.

Ingredients

• 4 medium chicken breasts: skinless and boneless perfect for lean, highprotein meals
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder: infuses savory aroma and depth
• 2 teaspoons paprika: adds smoky warmth try to get sweet Spanish paprika if possible
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: brings herbaceous notes and complexity
• Salt and black pepper to taste: essential for seasoning the chicken cubes well
• 1 cup pizza sauce: provides tangy tomato richness use a goodquality jar or homemade if possible
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully for creamy, gooey topping
• Half cup chopped ham: adds a salty, meaty layer that pairs well with pineapple
• Half cup diced pineapple: juices sweeten and brighten the overall dish
• 4 cups steamed broccoli: cut into halves balances the meal with fresh, crisp greens

Instructions

Sear the Chicken Cubes:

Cut the chicken breasts into oneinch cubes for even cooking. Place them in a 9 by 13inch casserole dish generously sprayed with oil to prevent sticking. Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the chicken. Toss well using your hands or two spoons to coat the pieces evenly.

Bake the Chicken:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the baking dish in the oven and let the chicken cook for 15 minutes. This initial bake cooks the chicken through but leaves room for further topping and melting.

Add Toppings:

Remove the casserole dish carefully from the oven. Pour the pizza sauce evenly over the chicken cubes to coat them in tomatoey goodness. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, followed by chopped ham and half cup of diced pineapple for bursts of sweet flavor in every bite.

Finish Baking:

Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10 to 12 minutes or until the cheese melts fully and starts to bubble and brown slightly. This step melds all the flavors and creates a luscious topping.

Assemble the Bowls:

Once baked, portion the chicken mixture into four meal prep bowls. Add steamed broccoli halves to each bowl to provide freshness and a nutrient boost. Garnish the bowls with extra diced pineapple and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added texture and flavor.

This dish’s standout ingredient for me is the pineapple. The natural sweetness and juiciness cuts through the richness of the cheese and ham, creating a harmony of flavors that feels absolutely joyful. A lovely family moment with this recipe was when my picky eater finally asked for a second serving, convinced by the unexpectedly delicious pineapple twist.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in airtight containers and keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to preserve moisture. You can also freeze individual portions for up to three months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs can replace breasts for a more tender and juicy texture but cook time may slightly increase. For a dairyfree option, swap mozzarella for vegan cheese or omit cheese and add extra tomato sauce for moisture. If pineapple is hard to find fresh, canned diced pineapple in juice (not syrup) works well and still adds sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bowls topped with sliced green onions or fresh basil for herbaceous brightness. Add a small side of garlic bread or a simple green salad if you want to round out the meal. A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the pineapple before serving adds a fancy sweet tang.

Enjoy these Hawaiian pizza chicken bowls warm for best flavor and texture. They make great mealprep lunches or weeknight dinners.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What type of chicken is best for this dish?

Skinless, boneless chicken breasts work best to ensure even cooking and easy bite-sized pieces.

→ Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh diced pineapple adds a vibrant sweetness and a juicy texture that complements the savory ingredients.

→ Is there a recommended cheese substitute?

Mozzarella provides the ideal melt and mild flavor, but provolone or Monterey Jack can be used as alternatives.

→ How do I keep the broccoli crisp?

Steam the broccoli until just tender to maintain a slight crunch and vibrant color, enhancing the overall texture.

→ Can this meal be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, baking the chicken and assembling the bowls in advance makes for convenient, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week.