Sweet & Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowls

Experience a taste of the tropics with these vibrant **Chicken Poke Bowls**! This recipe transforms the traditional Hawaiian favorite into a family-friendly meal featuring succulent, tender chicken breast marinated in a homemade teriyaki glaze. Served over perfectly seasoned sushi rice and generously topped with creamy spicy mayo, fresh avocado, crisp cucumbers, vibrant edamame, crunchy carrots, sweet pineapple, aromatic green onion, and toasted sesame seeds, these bowls are an explosion of flavor and texture. They’re not just delicious; they’re also incredibly filling, nutritious, and a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy meal at home. Get ready for a quick, customizable, and utterly satisfying dinner that brings the Aloha spirit to your kitchen!

chicken poke bowls with toppings and spicy mayo in a bowl

What is a Poke Bowl and Why You’ll Love This Chicken Version

A poke bowl, pronounced “poh-kay,” is a beloved Hawaiian dish traditionally featuring cubed raw fish (often tuna or salmon) marinated in a savory sauce. This protein is typically served over a bed of rice or fresh greens, then adorned with a variety of vibrant toppings and a drizzle of sauce, like a spicy sriracha mayo. It’s a beautifully balanced meal, celebrated for its fresh flavors, customizable nature, and nutritional benefits. Its popularity has soared globally, becoming a staple in many restaurants and a favorite for home cooks seeking wholesome, exciting dishes.

While classic poke bowls are undeniably delicious, not everyone enjoys raw fish, or perhaps you’re simply looking for a new twist! That’s where our incredible **Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowl** comes in. We’ve swapped the raw fish for tender, juicy chicken breast, bathed in a rich, flavorful homemade teriyaki glaze. This alternative makes the poke bowl concept accessible and appealing to a wider audience, including kids and those new to poke. It maintains all the freshness and vibrant appeal of a traditional poke bowl but introduces a comforting, cooked protein. The best part? These quick teriyaki chicken bowls are designed for efficiency, coming together in just around 35 minutes, making them a perfect solution for busy weeknights without compromising on flavor or health.

Why This Chicken Poke Bowl Recipe Stands Out

There’s an undeniable charm to building your own meal in a bowl, and these **Easy Chicken Poke Bowls** exemplify why this format is so popular. They are more than just a quick meal; they are an experience in fresh, vibrant flavors and textures that cater to every palate. Here’s what makes this recipe truly exceptional:

  • Lightning-Fast Preparation: In today’s fast-paced world, time is precious. This recipe respects that, requiring only 15 minutes of active prep time and 20 minutes of cooking. From chopping ingredients to cooking the chicken and rice, you can have a gourmet-quality dinner on the table in a little over half an hour. It’s ideal for busy weekdays when you crave something wholesome and homemade but are short on time.
  • Irresistible Flavor Profile: The star of these bowls is the tender chicken, lovingly coated in a sweet and savory homemade teriyaki glaze. We’ve even added a hint of hot honey to the glaze for an extra layer of complexity and a subtle warmth that elevates the dish. This perfectly cooked chicken, combined with the fluffy sushi rice and the creamy, zesty spicy mayo, creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
  • Ultimate Customization and Family Fun: One of the greatest joys of poke bowls is their adaptability. This recipe is designed as a “build-your-own-bowl” meal, which is fantastic for families. You can set out the delicious teriyaki chicken, sushi rice, and an array of fresh toppings, allowing each person to create their perfect bowl. This approach encourages picky eaters to try new ingredients and ensures everyone gets exactly what they want.
  • Packed with Freshness and Nutrition: These bowls are a powerhouse of nutrients. They combine lean protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the sushi rice, and a bounty of vitamins and fiber from the fresh vegetables and fruit like avocado, cucumber, edamame, carrots, and pineapple. It’s a satisfying meal that leaves you feeling energized, not heavy.
  • A Feast for the Eyes: Beyond the taste, the vibrant colors of the ingredients arranged in a bowl make for an incredibly appealing presentation. Eating with your eyes first is definitely part of the experience, and these bowls are simply beautiful.

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, preparing a meal for the family, or simply treating yourself to something special, these **Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowls with Spicy Mayo** offer an unbeatable combination of speed, flavor, and health benefits.

Essential Ingredient Notes for Flavorful Chicken Poke Bowls

Crafting the perfect poke bowl begins with understanding each component. Here’s a deeper dive into the ingredients that make our Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowls truly exceptional:

ingredients for chicken poke bowls in nesting bowls
  • Chicken Breasts: We recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into uniform 1-inch cubes for quick and even cooking. If you prefer a slightly richer flavor and juicier texture, boneless chicken thighs can be an excellent substitute. Ensure pieces are bite-sized for easy integration into the bowl.
  • Avocado Oil or Olive Oil: These oils are used for cooking the chicken and add a subtle richness. Avocado oil has a high smoke point, making it great for air frying or baking, while olive oil offers a lovely flavor profile.
  • Homemade Teriyaki Glaze: This is where the magic happens! Our glaze is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy.
    • Coconut Aminos: A fantastic gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, offering a similar umami depth with a slightly sweeter, less salty profile. If you don’t require gluten-free, low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (which is gluten-free) can be used, though you might need to adjust the salt content.
    • Rice Vinegar: Adds a crucial tangy acidity that brightens the sauce and balances the sweetness.
    • Sesame Oil: Contributes a distinctive nutty, aromatic flavor essential to Asian-inspired dishes. A little goes a long way!
    • Garlic Powder & Ground Ginger: These pantry staples infuse the glaze with warm, aromatic notes without the fuss of mincing fresh ingredients.
    • Hot Honey (or Regular Honey): Hot honey adds a delightful sweet heat that elevates the teriyaki glaze. If you prefer less spice, regular honey or maple syrup works perfectly for sweetness.
    • Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the glaze.
    • Arrowroot Powder: This natural thickener helps create that luscious, glossy glaze texture that clings beautifully to the chicken. Cornstarch can be used as an alternative.
  • Sushi Rice: The ideal base for a poke bowl due to its slightly sticky texture when cooked, which makes it easy to eat with chopsticks.
    • Uncooked Short-Grain Rice: Specifically designed for sushi, it absorbs flavors wonderfully. You can also use medium-grain rice.
    • Water: For cooking the rice to perfection. Always follow package directions for exact ratios, as they can vary.
    • Rice Vinegar, Granulated Sugar, & Salt: These ingredients are whisked into the cooked rice to give it that signature slightly sweet, tangy, and seasoned flavor, characteristic of sushi rice.
  • Spicy Mayo: A creamy, zesty, and spicy topping that ties all the flavors together.
    • Mayonnaise or Plain Greek Yogurt: Mayo provides a rich, creamy base. For a lighter, tangier, and protein-packed option, plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute. Choose full-fat or low-fat based on your preference.
    • Hot Sauce (Sriracha, etc.): The key to the “spicy” in spicy mayo! Adjust the amount to your heat preference. Other chili-garlic sauces can also work.
    • Coconut Aminos & Rice Vinegar: Add depth of flavor and a touch of acidity to the mayo, balancing the spice and creaminess.
    • Salt: Just a pinch to enhance the overall taste.
  • Fresh Toppings: The vibrant medley of toppings is what makes poke bowls so exciting. Feel free to mix and match!
    • Pickled Onions: Offer a delightful tangy crunch and a beautiful pop of color.
    • Diced Cucumbers: Provide a refreshing, cool crispness.
    • Shelled Steam-in-Bag Edamame: A convenient and protein-rich addition, often found in the freezer section.
    • Matchstick Carrots: Add a sweet crunch and a bright orange hue.
    • Pineapple Chunks: Introduce a burst of tropical sweetness and juicy texture, complementing the savory teriyaki.
    • Green Onion (Scallions): For a mild oniony bite and fresh garnish.
    • Sesame Seeds: A classic finishing touch, adding nutty flavor and visual appeal. Both white and black sesame seeds work well.

Gathering these high-quality ingredients is the first step towards creating your ultimate **Homemade Chicken Poke Bowls**!

How To Masterfully Assemble Your Chicken Poke Bowls

the first four steps for making chicken poke bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Perfect Sushi Rice

Begin by making the sushi rice, which serves as the delicious foundation of your poke bowl. Start by rinsing 1 cup of uncooked short-grain sushi rice thoroughly under cold water using a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, preventing sticky, gummy rice. Transfer the rinsed rice to a medium-sized pot and add 1.5 cups of water (or refer to your specific rice package directions, as water ratios can vary slightly). Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to its lowest setting, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and let it simmer for 16-18 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to keep the steam trapped. Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, still covered, for 5-10 minutes. While the rice is still warm, gently stir in 1.5 teaspoons of rice vinegar, ½ teaspoon of granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Delectable Teriyaki Glaze

While your rice is cooking, prepare the star of the show: the homemade teriyaki glaze. In a medium saucepan or large skillet, combine all the teriyaki sauce ingredients: ¾ cup coconut aminos, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 2 teaspoons sesame oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, 1 teaspoon hot honey (or regular honey), ½ teaspoon salt, and 2 teaspoons arrowroot powder. Whisk everything together until smooth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, whisking constantly. The sauce should begin to thicken quickly, becoming a rich, glossy glaze. As soon as it reaches your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Set aside half of the glaze for later use.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

In a large bowl, add the cubed chicken breast (approximately 1.5 lbs, cut into 1-inch pieces) along with 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil. Pour half of your freshly prepared teriyaki glaze over the chicken. Reserve the remaining half of the glaze for tossing with the cooked chicken later. Toss the chicken thoroughly to ensure every piece is beautifully coated in the savory marinade. This initial coating will infuse the chicken with incredible flavor as it cooks.

Step 4: Air Fry Your Teriyaki Chicken to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Carefully arrange the marinated, cubed chicken in a single layer within the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Air fry for 11-13 minutes, making sure to toss the chicken every few minutes to promote even cooking and browning. The chicken is perfectly cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the pieces are golden brown and slightly caramelized on the edges. Remove the cooked, crispy chicken from the air fryer and transfer it to a clean bowl. Pour the remaining half of the reserved teriyaki glaze over the hot chicken and toss to coat completely. This second coating ensures a glossy, intensely flavorful finish. (For an oven-baked option, please refer to the “Expert Tips & Substitutions” section below.)

steps 5-8 for how to make chicken poke bowls

Step 5: Prepare the Zesty Spicy Mayo

While your chicken and rice are cooking, whip up the delicious spicy mayo. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option), 2 tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce (like sriracha), 1 teaspoon of coconut aminos, ½ teaspoon of rice vinegar, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. These ingredients create a balanced sauce that offers a creamy texture with a delightful kick and tangy undertones.

Step 6: Whisk Until Smooth and Chill

Using a small whisk or a fork, vigorously whisk all the spicy mayo ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary – you might want more hot sauce for extra kick or a pinch more salt. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the spicy mayo until you’re ready to assemble and serve your poke bowls. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Arrange Your Array of Fresh Toppings

While the main components cook, take this time to prepare your fresh toppings. Dice your cucumbers, have your matchstick carrots ready, steam and shell your edamame if not already done, and gather your pickled onions, pineapple chunks, green onions, and sesame seeds. Having all your toppings prepped and arranged in small bowls makes the assembly process smooth and enjoyable, especially if you’re doing a “build-your-own-bowl” style dinner.

Step 8: Assemble and Savor Your Chicken Poke Bowls

Now for the best part – assembly! To build each bowl, start with a generous portion of the seasoned sushi rice as the base. Next, artfully arrange a serving of the glistening teriyaki chicken over the rice. Surround the chicken with your colorful array of fresh toppings: crisp cucumbers, tangy pickled onions, bright green edamame, sweet pineapple chunks, and crunchy carrots. Finish each bowl with a decadent drizzle of the homemade spicy mayo, tailored to your liking. Finally, garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and some freshly chopped green onion for extra flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately and enjoy the incredible layers of flavor and texture in your homemade **Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowl**!

side view of chicken poke bowls

Expert Tips & Creative Substitutions for Your Chicken Poke Bowls

Enhance your **Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowls** with these expert tips and flexible substitutions, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your preferences, dietary needs, or what you have on hand:

  • Oven-Baked Method for Chicken: No air fryer? No problem! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a bowl, add the remaining teriyaki sauce, and toss to coat. This method yields equally delicious and tender chicken.
  • Gluten-Free Soy Sauce Alternatives: We’ve opted for coconut aminos in our teriyaki glaze because it’s naturally gluten-free and has a slightly milder, sweeter flavor. If you’re not strictly gluten-free, regular soy sauce can be used, though you may want to reduce the salt in the recipe as soy sauce is saltier. For a gluten-free option with a flavor closer to soy sauce, Tamari is an excellent choice. Always check labels to ensure your chosen substitute is certified gluten-free if needed.
  • Rice Variations: While sushi rice is traditionally used for its delightful sticky texture and ability to absorb flavors, feel free to experiment with other bases to suit your taste or health goals.
    • Brown Rice: Offers a nuttier flavor and more fiber.
    • Cauliflower Rice: A fantastic low-carb option that adds extra vegetables.
    • Quinoa: A complete protein and another gluten-free alternative.
    • Zucchini Noodles: For a fresh, raw, and ultra-low-carb base.
    • Salad Greens: Turn your poke bowl into a poke salad by using mixed greens, spinach, or shredded cabbage as your base.
  • Spicy Mayo Hacks:
    • Lower Fat Option: For a lighter mayo, use non-fat or low-fat plain Greek yogurt. It provides a creamy texture with a protein boost and less fat.
    • Creamy Avocado Sauce: Blend avocado with a squeeze of lime juice, a hint of garlic, and a touch of water for a creamy, healthy alternative to mayo.
    • Flavor Boosters: Add a dash of lime juice, a pinch of smoked paprika, or a tiny amount of grated fresh ginger to your spicy mayo for extra layers of flavor.
  • Protein Swaps: Not just for chicken! This teriyaki glaze is versatile. Try it with shrimp, tofu, or even thick-cut mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
  • Vegetable & Fruit Creativity: Don’t limit yourself to our topping suggestions!
    • Add More Greens: Thinly sliced kale, spinach, or mixed spring greens can be mixed into the bowl for extra nutrients.
    • Crispy Textures: Fried shallots, roasted seaweed snacks, or toasted nuts (like cashews or peanuts) can add delightful crunch.
    • Spice It Up: Thinly sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes can intensify the heat.
    • Umami Boost: Marinated shiitake mushrooms or a sprinkle of furikake (Japanese rice seasoning) can add extra depth.

Perfect Serving Tips for an Unforgettable Poke Bowl Experience

The beauty of these **Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowls** lies not only in their taste but also in their presentation and the interactive dining experience they offer. Here’s how to serve them to perfection:

  • The Art of Layering: Begin by adding a generous scoop of the seasoned sushi rice to the bottom of each bowl. This provides a clean, neutral canvas for the vibrant toppings.
  • Centerpiece Chicken: Arrange the glistening teriyaki chicken cubes artfully over a section of the rice. Let them be the focal point of the bowl.
  • Colorful Arrangement: Next, thoughtfully arrange your fresh toppings in sections around the chicken. This creates a visually appealing “rainbow” effect that entices the eyes before the first bite. Place cucumbers, pickled onions, edamame, pineapple, and carrots in distinct piles.
  • Drizzle and Garnish: Finish your bowls with a generous drizzle of the homemade spicy mayo. Allow guests to add their desired amount. A final sprinkle of sesame seeds (both white and black for contrast) and some chopped green onions provides a fresh, aromatic finish and professional touch.
  • Family-Style Serving: For a fun and interactive dinner, especially with kids, present all the components buffet-style. Lay out the sushi rice, teriyaki chicken, spicy mayo in a serving vessel, and all the toppings in separate small bowls. Let everyone build their own customized **Chicken Poke Bowl**, ensuring a meal that pleases everyone.
  • Pairing Suggestions: These bowls are a complete meal on their own, but if you’re looking to round out the experience, consider serving them with a light side of miso soup or a refreshing green tea.
chicken poke bowls with toppings surrounded by small bowls of garnishes

Smart Storage & Meal Prep Tips for Your Chicken Poke Bowls

These **Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowls** are not only fantastic for fresh enjoyment but also incredibly versatile for meal prepping, ensuring you have healthy, delicious meals ready throughout the week. Proper storage is key to maintaining freshness and flavor:

  • Storing Leftovers: If you have leftover chicken, rice, and toppings from an assembled bowl, it’s best to store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the texture and prevents certain ingredients (like avocado) from browning or getting soggy. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheating & Reassembling:
    • Chicken: Reheat the cooked teriyaki chicken in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through, or in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes.
    • Rice: Sushi rice is best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in the microwave with a tiny sprinkle of water (about a tablespoon per cup of rice) and covered, to prevent it from drying out.
    • Toppings & Mayo: Keep fresh toppings and spicy mayo chilled. They are best served cold or at room temperature.

    Then, simply reassemble your bowl with your desired toppings for a quick, fresh meal.

  • Meal Prepping for the Week: This recipe is a dream for meal prep! To set yourself up for success:
    • Cook Components Separately: Prepare a larger batch of teriyaki chicken and sushi rice at the beginning of the week.
    • Individual Containers: Divide the cooked rice and chicken into individual meal prep containers. This saves time during busy lunch or dinner hours.
    • Separate Toppings: Store your pre-cut fresh toppings (cucumbers, carrots, edamame, pickled onions, pineapple) in small separate containers or compartments within your meal prep containers. Avoid adding avocado until just before serving to prevent browning.
    • Spicy Mayo: Keep the spicy mayo in a separate small dressing container. This prevents the other ingredients from becoming soggy.

    By storing the components separately, you ensure each element retains its optimal texture and freshness, allowing for quick and easy assembly when hunger strikes. Enjoy wholesome, homemade meals effortlessly throughout your busy week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Poke Bowls

What does a poke bowl typically consist of?

A traditional poke bowl is a Hawaiian dish composed of several key layers. It usually starts with a base of rice (often sushi rice) or fresh salad greens. The main protein is typically raw, marinated fish, such as tuna or salmon. This is then drizzled with a flavorful sauce, like soy sauce, ponzu, or spicy mayo. Finally, it’s topped with a variety of fresh vegetables and garnishes, which can include avocado, cucumber, edamame, seaweed salad, pickled ginger, green onions (scallions), and sesame seeds. In our delicious chicken poke bowl recipe, we substitute the traditional raw fish with tender, savory teriyaki chicken, making it a fantastic alternative for those who prefer cooked protein while still enjoying the vibrant flavors of a classic poke bowl.

Are Chicken Poke Bowls healthy?

Yes, these Chicken Poke Bowls are incredibly healthy and packed with nutrients! They feature lean protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the sushi rice (or other healthy grains), and a rich array of vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the fresh vegetables and fruit. The homemade teriyaki glaze and spicy mayo allow you to control the ingredients, reducing excess sugars and unhealthy fats often found in store-bought versions. With options for lighter bases like cauliflower rice or Greek yogurt in the mayo, you can further tailor the bowls to fit specific dietary goals, making them a balanced and wholesome meal choice.

Can I make these Chicken Poke Bowls vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! The beauty of poke bowls lies in their versatility. To make this recipe vegetarian, simply swap the chicken for plant-based protein alternatives. Excellent choices include crispy baked tofu cubes, pan-fried tempeh, marinated and roasted shiitake mushrooms, or even seasoned chickpeas. Ensure your teriyaki glaze ingredients are vegan (e.g., use maple syrup instead of honey) and substitute the mayonnaise in the spicy mayo with a vegan mayonnaise or a blended avocado base. The rest of the fresh toppings are already plant-based, making the transition very straightforward and delicious!

a fork taking a bite of chicken out of a bowl

Explore More Delicious Bowl Recipes You’ll Love!

If you’ve enjoyed the delightful experience of crafting and savoring these **Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowls**, then you’re in for a treat! The world of bowl meals is vast and exciting, offering endless possibilities for nutritious, customizable, and incredibly flavorful dinners. Here are some more of our favorite bowl recipes that promise to bring variety and excitement to your kitchen:

  • Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowls: Craving bold flavors? These bowls combine spicy buffalo chicken with cool, creamy elements for a comforting yet invigorating meal.
  • Veggie Burrito Bowls with Avocado Crema: A vibrant, plant-packed option brimming with roasted vegetables, wholesome grains, and a luscious avocado crema. Perfect for vegetarian nights!
  • Loaded Mashed Potato Bowls: The ultimate comfort food reinvented! Creamy mashed potatoes piled high with your favorite toppings like cheese, bacon, and green onions.
  • Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Meal Prep Bowls: Enjoy the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a healthier, easy-to-prep bowl format, ideal for busy weeks.
  • Chicken & Cauliflower Street Taco Bowls: Experience the zest and spice of street tacos transformed into a convenient bowl, complete with a refreshing cilantro-lime sauce.
  • Healthy BBQ Chicken Bowls: Sweet, smoky, and satisfying – these bowls feature tender BBQ chicken paired with a crisp, healthy coleslaw.

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chicken poke bowls with toppings and spicy mayo in a bowl
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5 from 17 votes

Easy Teriyaki Chicken Poke Bowls with Spicy Mayo

By: Mary Smith
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 bowls
These Chicken Poke Bowls feature tender chicken breast marinated in a teriyaki glaze on a bed of sushi rice and topped with homemade spicy mayo, avocado, cucumbers, edamame, carrots, pineapple, green onion, and sesame seeds. Filling, delicious, and full of flavor!

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Whisk
  • Medium sauce pan for rice

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil

Teriyaki Glaze

  • ¾ cup coconut aminos
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp hot honey, or regular honey
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tsp arrowroot powder

Sushi Rice (can also use regular rice of choice)

  • 1 cup sushi rice, uncooked
  • 1.5 cups water, (or amount used in package directions)
  • 1.5 tsp rice vinegar
  • ½ tsp granulated sugar
  • ½ tsp salt

Spicy Mayo

  • ½ cup mayo, or plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce
  • 1 tsp coconut aminos
  • ½ tsp rice vinegar
  • ¼ tsp salt

Toppings

  • Pickled onions
  • diced cucumbers
  • steamed shelled edamame, I buy this in the freezer section
  • matchstick carrots
  • pineapple chunks
  • sesame seeds
  • fresh green onion

Instructions

  • 1. Prepare the Sushi Rice: Rinse 1 cup of sushi rice under cold water until clear. Combine rinsed rice and 1.5 cups water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 16-18 minutes. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. Stir in 1.5 tsp rice vinegar, ½ tsp granulated sugar, and ½ tsp salt. Set aside.
  • 2. Make the Teriyaki Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine ¾ cup coconut aminos, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 tsp sesame oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp hot honey, ½ tsp salt, and 2 tsp arrowroot powder. Whisk constantly over medium heat until it boils and thickens. Remove from heat and set aside half the glaze.
  • 3. Marinate the Chicken: Add 1.5 lbs cubed chicken and 1 tbsp avocado oil to a large bowl. Pour the remaining HALF of the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and toss to coat thoroughly.
  • 4. Cook the Chicken (Air Fryer): Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes and spray the basket. Add marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 11-13 minutes, tossing every few minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and chicken is golden brown. Transfer cooked chicken to a bowl and toss with the remaining ½ of the reserved teriyaki glaze. (See “Expert Tips” for oven-baked option).
  • 5. Prepare the Spicy Mayo: While chicken and rice cook, combine ½ cup mayo (or Greek yogurt), 2 tbsp hot sauce, 1 tsp coconut aminos, ½ tsp rice vinegar, and ¼ tsp salt in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth. Keep in the fridge until ready to serve.
  • 6. Assemble Your Bowls: To each bowl, add a base of sushi rice, then a portion of teriyaki chicken. Artfully arrange cucumbers, pickled onions, edamame, pineapple, and carrots around the chicken. Drizzle generously with spicy mayo and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onion. Enjoy immediately!

Notes

Expert Tips & Substitutions

  • Oven-baked method for chicken: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Add the marinated chicken pieces to a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 18-20 minutes, tossing halfway through. Add the remaining sauce and toss to coat.
  • I use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce because soy sauce is not gluten-free. Feel free to substitute Tamari or another gluten-free soy sauce if desired.
  • Sushi rice is customary in most poke bowl recipes. However, you can substitute brown rice, cauliflower rice, quinoa, or zucchini noodles if desired.
  • For a lower fat option in your spicy mayo, use non-fat or low-fat plain Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise!

Serving Tips

Assemble your chicken poke bowls by adding sushi rice to your bowl. Then, add the teriyaki chicken to the top of the rice. Next, add your fresh toppings: cucumbers, pickled onions, edamame, pineapple, and carrots. Drizzle with some spicy mayo and garnish with sesame seeds and green onion. Enjoy!

Storage Tips

Store leftover chicken, rice, and toppings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I recommend storing the ingredients separately, then reheating (chicken and rice) and assembling your chicken poke bowls with desired toppings and chilled mayo.

This is also a great recipe for meal-prepping. Store the rice and chicken in individual meal prep containers, with a side container of spicy mayo and your favorite toppings.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: 671kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 40g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 15g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 121mg | Sodium: 2327mg | Potassium: 697mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 80IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 22mg | Iron: 2mg

All nutrition facts are an estimate and automatically calculated. While I fact check them using My Fitness Pal, please note that they may not always be 100% accurate and depend on ingredients used. Weigh your total and divide by the number of servings for the most accurate grams per serving size.

Did you make this?Rate & comment below, and tag me on Instagram @maryswholelife