Experience the tropical delight of Hawaiian chicken! This dish combines juicy chicken with sweet pineapple and colorful bell peppers, all infused with a tangy marinade. Perfect for grilling, this recipe is a fantastic way to bring a taste of the islands into your home. Ideal for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, Hawaiian chicken is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
– 4 boneless chicken thighs
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 chicken thigh with vegetables) contains about 350 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, and 30g carbohydrates.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, and ginger to create the marinade.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- While chicken is cooking, sauté the bell peppers in a separate pan.
- Add pineapple chunks to the bell peppers and cook until heated through.
- Once chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the sliced chicken over the sautéed peppers and pineapple.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute boneless chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. Additionally, any bell peppers can be used, and you can replace pineapple with mango for a different tropical flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Hawaiian chicken pairs well with coconut rice, a fresh green salad, or grilled vegetables. For a refreshing drink, serve with a tropical smoothie or a light beer.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Hawaiian chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This dish can be frozen; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
- Do not over-marinate the chicken; it can become too salty.
- Ensure the grill is preheated to prevent sticking.
- Avoid crowding the grill; cook in batches if necessary.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F.
- Do not skip resting the chicken; it helps retain juices.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add a splash of lime juice to the marinade.
- Use fresh herbs for garnish to enhance presentation.
- Try different fruits like peaches or papaya for variation.
- Marinate overnight for deeper flavor absorption.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it is fully thawed before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with Hawaiian chicken?
Hawaiian chicken pairs excellently with coconut rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that’s both vibrant and satisfying.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, include sliced jalapeños to the marinade or sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving.
Can I grill this chicken indoors?
Yes, using a grill pan on the stovetop is an excellent alternative to outdoor grilling, providing similar results.
How long does marinated chicken last in the fridge?
Marinated chicken can last in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking. Be sure to cook it thoroughly afterward.
Conclusion
Hawaiian chicken is a delightful dish that brings the essence of the tropics to your table. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this dish with family and friends, and indulge in the taste of paradise!
Hawaiian Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken thighs
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger grated
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, and ginger to create the marinade.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- While chicken is cooking, sauté the bell peppers in a separate pan.
- Add pineapple chunks to the bell peppers and cook until heated through.
- Once chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the sliced chicken over the sautéed peppers and pineapple.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
