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hawaiian chicken recipe
Ben Carraoli

Hawaiian Chicken Recipe

This Hawaiian Chicken recipe is the perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s great for summer grilling, meal prep, or family dinners. The pineapple glaze adds a tropical twist that makes the chicken juicy and flavorful. You'll love how easy and delicious this dish is!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts): Thighs are more flavorful and stay juicy during grilling.
  • 1 cup pineapple juice: Adds sweetness and natural acidity for tenderizing the meat.
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce: Balances the sweetness and gives an umami-rich base.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar: Gives a deep caramel-like flavor to the glaze.
  • 2 tablespoons honey: Adds shine and sweetness while helping the glaze stick.
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar: Brings a light tang to balance the sweet flavors.
  • 2 cloves garlic minced: Adds a punch of aromatic flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated: Provides warmth and depth to the marinade.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the glaze for perfect brushing consistency.
  • 1/4 cup water:Used with cornstarch to make a smooth slurry.
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks: Grilled for sweetness and texture.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley chopped (for garnish): Adds freshness and color before serving.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Used for seasoning before grilling, enhances overall flavor.

Method
 

  1. First, prepare the marinade by combining the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a large bowl. Whisk it until everything is well combined and smooth. This marinade is the key to the chicken’s flavor and tenderness.
  2. Place the chicken thighs in the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece is completely coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for 3–4 hours. The longer the chicken sits, the more flavorful it becomes.
  3. Once marinated, remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking. This helps the meat cook evenly and retain its juices.
  4. Pour the leftover marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. This will become your glaze.
  5. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until it forms a smooth slurry. Slowly pour this into the simmering marinade while whisking continuously. Keep cooking the mixture, stirring often, until it thickens into a glossy glaze. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it rest.
  6. This glaze will be used to brush on the chicken as it cooks, giving it a sticky, flavorful coating.
  7. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the grill with a little oil to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade (don’t reuse the raw marinade). Season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
  8. Grill each piece of chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). During the final 2 minutes of grilling, brush each side with the pineapple glaze. This gives it a rich, sticky finish and locks in moisture.
  9. Don’t rush the grilling—allow the sugars to caramelize naturally without burning.
  10. You can grill the pineapple chunks right after the chicken. Place them directly on the grill and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and they caramelize slightly. This brings out their sweetness and adds smoky flavor.
  11. If you're not grilling them, simply toss the pineapple in some of the warm glaze to give them a delicious coating. Either method works great.
  12. Grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with the savory, glazed chicken and adds a juicy contrast to the plate.
  13. Place the grilled chicken on a serving platter. Top it with the warm, glazed pineapple chunks for a burst of sweetness and texture. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top for extra flavor.
  14. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley over everything to add color and freshness. Serve the dish hot with steamed rice, coconut rice, or grilled veggies on the side.
  15. This dish is flavorful, easy to make, and guaranteed to impress anyone at your table.