Imagine biting into juicy, tender Hawaiian chicken, the sweet tang of pineapple dancing with savory grilled flavors, while the aroma transports you to a tropical paradise. This dish isn’t just dinner; it’s an invitation to a backyard luau, where the sun sets and laughter fills the air, making every bite feel like a mini-vacation.
Growing up, our family celebrated summer weekends with Hawaiian chicken sizzling on the grill, filling the neighborhood with its mouthwatering scent. We gathered around the table, sharing stories and memories that would last a lifetime. Whether you’re hosting friends for a casual BBQ or simply craving a taste of sunshine on a dreary day, this recipe promises to deliver an explosion of flavors that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious hawaiian chicken is so easy to prepare, even your pet goldfish could whip it up
- Bursting with a sweet and tangy flavor profile, it’s like a tropical vacation for your taste buds
- The vibrant colors will have your dinner guests asking if you’ve hired a fancy chef
- Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this dish is as versatile as your favorite pair of sweatpants
One summer evening, my friends devoured my Hawaiian chicken, raving about its flavor and asking for the recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Hawaiian chicken dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on your serving size needs.
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Fresh Pineapple Chunks: Opt for ripe pineapple for the sweetest flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
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Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red and green bell peppers for vibrant color and added crunch.
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Red Onion: Choose a medium-sized red onion; its sweetness balances the savory elements of the dish.
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Fresh Garlic: Use firm garlic cloves; they intensify the overall flavor profile of your Hawaiian chicken.
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Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a warm, zesty kick that enhances the tropical flavors beautifully.
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Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is recommended to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
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Brown Sugar: This ingredient gives a hint of caramelization and sweetness that complements the dish’s savory elements.
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Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish, adding a refreshing tang that balances richness.
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Sesame Oil: A small amount of sesame oil imparts a nutty flavor that enriches the overall dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Marinate the Chicken: Begin by whisking together soy sauce, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Add your chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully submerged in this sweet and savory mixture. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes; this step infuses the meat with incredible flavor.
Preheat Your Grill: While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. This temperature will give your Hawaiian chicken a perfect sear while keeping it juicy inside. You can also use a grill pan on the stovetop if outdoor grilling isn’t an option.
Grill the Chicken: Once marinated, remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until you see beautiful grill marks and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The aroma of grilled chicken will fill the air!
Add Pineapple Slices: In the last few minutes of grilling, add fresh pineapple slices alongside the chicken. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they caramelize and develop lovely charred marks. The sweetness from the pineapple enhances the overall flavor profile of your Hawaiian chicken.
Rest Before Serving: After grilling, transfer your Hawaiian chicken to a plate and let it rest for five minutes. This resting period allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
Serve with Garnishes: Slice your rested chicken and serve it with grilled pineapple on top. For an extra touch, sprinkle with chopped green onions or cilantro. This not only adds freshness but also elevates the presentation of your dish!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinate your chicken for at least an hour to enhance flavor; overnight is even better for a deeper taste
- Use fresh pineapple juice instead of canned for a vibrant, natural sweetness that elevates the dish
- Avoid overcooking your chicken; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s juicy and tender
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with Hawaiian chicken, start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor. Next, sear the chicken in a hot skillet for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. While the chicken cooks, prepare your rice or quinoa to serve as a base, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Finally, simmer your sauce, allowing it to thicken for around 10 minutes before serving it over the chicken.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative with your Hawaiian chicken! Swap out the pineapple for mango for a tropical twist, or add some chopped bell peppers for extra crunch. You can also experiment with different marinades, like teriyaki or a spicy chili sauce, to suit your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
To store Hawaiian chicken, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, use the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
FAQ
What is Hawaiian chicken?
Hawaiian chicken is a flavorful dish featuring grilled or baked chicken glazed with a sweet and tangy sauce.
How do I make Hawaiian chicken sauce?
To make Hawaiian chicken sauce, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger in a saucepan.
Can I use a different protein for Hawaiian chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork or tofu for a delicious variation on the recipe.
Hawaiian Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F.
- Remove chicken from marinade, let excess drip off, and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- In the last few minutes of grilling, add fresh pineapple slices and grill for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer chicken to a plate and let it rest for five minutes before serving.