Hawaiian Chicken Recipe (with Video)

Hawaiian Chicken Recipe: Hawaiian Chicken is a tropical-inspired dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The dish features juicy chicken marinated in a rich pineapple-based sauce with hints of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. It’s a great way to bring an island vibe to your kitchen with minimal effort.

This easy-to-make recipe can be prepared using different cooking methods, making it versatile and convenient for any home cook. Whether you grill it for a smoky taste, bake it for a hands-off approach, or cook it on the stovetop for quick preparation, this recipe guarantees delicious results.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Chicken

Main Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier meat)
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• ½ cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or minced garlic)
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder (or fresh grated ginger)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
• 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

Substitutes and Variations:

• Chicken: You can use bone-in chicken, but the cooking time will be longer.
• Sweetener: Swap brown sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• Soy Sauce: Use coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative.
• Spice Level: Add chili flakes or Sriracha if you prefer spicy food.

How to Prepare the Chicken

Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe. If you prefer juicier and more flavorful meat, go with thighs. Breasts are leaner but can become dry if overcooked.

Marinating the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, ginger, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well mixed.
2. Place the chicken in a ziplock bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess liquid drip off before cooking.

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Sauce

Ingredients for the Sauce:

• 1 cup pineapple juice
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (dissolved in 2 tablespoons water)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, ketchup, garlic, and ginger. Stir well.
2. Bring the mixture to a slight simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water until dissolved, then pour it into the sauce.
4. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cooking Methods for Hawaiian Chicken

Grilling Method:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375–400°F / 190–205°C).
2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Brush with extra sauce while grilling for more flavor.

Baking Method:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and pour some sauce over it.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes, basting with sauce halfway through.
4. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Stovetop Method:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Pour in some sauce and let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes.
4. Serve hot with extra sauce on top.

Serving Suggestions

Hawaiian Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes that enhance its tropical flavors. Here are some ideas:

Best Side Dishes to Pair with Hawaiian Chicken:

• Steamed Rice: White rice, jasmine rice, or coconut rice balances the sweetness of the chicken.
• Grilled Pineapple: Caramelized pineapple slices add extra tropical flair.
• Hawaiian Macaroni Salad: A creamy side dish that complements the tangy and sweet chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots provide color and crunch.
• Hawaiian Rolls: Soft and slightly sweet rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.

Plating and Garnishing Ideas:

• Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top.
• Add a few pineapple chunks and bell peppers for a colorful presentation.
• Serve on a banana leaf-lined platter for an authentic Hawaiian touch.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Hawaiian Chicken

Want to make sure your Hawaiian Chicken turns out perfectly every time? Follow these tips:

How to Make the Dish More Flavorful:

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken sit in the marinade for 4-24 hours intensifies the flavor.
• Use Fresh Pineapple: Canned pineapple works, but fresh pineapple adds a more natural sweetness.
• Grill for a Smoky Flavor: Grilling caramelizes the sugars and adds a delicious char.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked Hawaiian Chicken in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm up leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Variations of Hawaiian Chicken

Looking to change things up? Try these delicious variations:

Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken:

• Place all ingredients in a slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• Shred the chicken and serve over rice.

Spicy Hawaiian Chicken:

• Add 1 tablespoon of Sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce for extra heat.
• Mix in diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To get the best results, steer clear of these common mistakes:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Always check with a meat thermometer (165°F / 75°C).
• Skipping the Marinade: The marinade is crucial for infusing flavor.
• Using the Wrong Type of Pineapple: Fresh or canned pineapple in juice is best—avoid syrup-packed varieties.

FAQs about Hawaiian Chicken Recipe

1. What ingredients do I need for Hawaiian Chicken?

For Hawaiian Chicken, you’ll need chicken breasts or thighs, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and optional ingredients like bell peppers and onions for added flavor.

2. How long does it take to make Hawaiian Chicken?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes. This includes marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes to infuse the tropical flavors.

3. Can I make Hawaiian Chicken in a slow cooker?

Yes, Hawaiian Chicken can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

4. What side dishes pair well with Hawaiian Chicken?

Hawaiian Chicken pairs wonderfully with white rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a more authentic touch, serve it with a side of macaroni salad or grilled pineapple.

5. Is Hawaiian Chicken spicy?

Typically, Hawaiian Chicken is not spicy and is known for its sweet and tangy flavor profile. However, you can customize the heat level by adding red pepper flakes or fresh chili to your marinade.

6. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned pineapple can be used both for convenience and to ensure a consistent sweet flavor throughout the year. Be sure to use pineapple in juice rather than syrup to avoid excess sweetness.

7. How can I store leftovers?

Leftover Hawaiian Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until thoroughly warm.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Chicken is a must-try dish that’s bursting with tropical flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether grilled, baked, or cooked on the stovetop, this dish delivers a mouthwatering blend of sweet, tangy, and savory tastes. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bring the flavors of Hawaii right into your home.