Indulge in the tropical goodness of Hawaiian chicken! This flavorful dish combines juicy chicken with a sweet and tangy marinade, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will transport you straight to the islands. Whether grilled or baked, this recipe guarantees a delightful experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to impress your guests with a taste of paradise right at your dinner table!
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken thigh with marinade) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional value is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
4. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
5. Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
6. Place chicken on the grill or a baking sheet if using the oven.
7. Grill for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
8. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
9. Remove chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, tofu or tempeh can be used instead. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these proteins may cook faster.
Serving and Pairings
Hawaiian chicken pairs wonderfully with coconut rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh tropical salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a refreshing fruit salsa or steamed jasmine rice.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months, but for best texture, it’s recommended to consume it fresh.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid over-marinating the chicken, which can make it too salty.
– Make sure to let the chicken rest after cooking to retain juices.
– Don’t skip the resting time; it enhances flavor and moisture.
– Ensure the grill is preheated to avoid sticking.
– Use a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking.
– Keep the marinade separate from cooked chicken to prevent contamination.
– Adjust cooking time based on chicken size for even cooking.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, add chopped green onions to the marinade.
– If grilling, consider adding pineapple slices for a caramelized treat.
– Serve with lime wedges for a zesty touch.
– Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for varied flavors.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time since it may cook faster than bone-in chicken.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Hawaiian chicken can be made ahead of time and stored for easy meal prep throughout the week.
What can I serve with Hawaiian chicken?
It pairs well with coconut rice, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad, enhancing the tropical theme of the dish.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños to the marinade for an extra kick.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to ensure the recipe is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
This Hawaiian chicken recipe is an easy and delicious way to bring a taste of the tropics to your home. With its sweet and savory marinade, it’s perfect for any occasion and sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and make mealtime a celebration!
Hawaiian Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
- Place chicken on the grill or a baking sheet if using the oven.
- Grill for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Nutrition
