Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hawaiian Chicken recipe is both simple and bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with tender, juicy chicken and a sticky, flavorful glaze. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is always a hit. Plus, it pairs well with rice, noodles, or even a light salad, making it versatile for any meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

• Pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)

• Pineapple juice

• Soy sauce

• Brown sugar

• Garlic, minced

• Ginger, grated or ground

• Cornstarch

• Water

• Green onions (for garnish)

• Cooking oil

Directions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

4. Add the chicken back into the skillet along with pineapple chunks. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender.

5. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add this to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens.

6. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Hawaiian Chicken: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

• Grilled Hawaiian Chicken: Marinate the chicken in the sauce and grill instead of pan-cooking for a smoky flavor.

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and follow the same steps.

• Low-Sugar Option: Use a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of brown sugar to taste.

• Add Veggies: Include bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added crunch and color.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Hawaiian Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, or microwave in a covered dish for 1–2 minutes. Add a splash of water or pineapple juice if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

What cut of chicken works best for Hawaiian Chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work well too if cooked properly.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple can be used. Just make sure to include some fresh juice or substitute with bottled pineapple juice.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, it tastes great the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.

What should I serve with Hawaiian Chicken?

Steamed rice, coconut rice, or stir-fried vegetables are excellent side dishes.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Chicken?

Yes, it freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine all ingredients and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours. Add the cornstarch slurry near the end to thicken the sauce.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The sweet and savory flavors are usually a hit with children.

Can I add extra pineapple?

Yes, feel free to increase the pineapple chunks if you enjoy a stronger fruity flavor.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Use thighs for juicier meat and avoid overcooking. Simmer gently and remove from heat once fully cooked.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings a tropical touch to your dinner table. With its rich, sweet-savory sauce and juicy chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a weekday meal or a weekend gathering, this flavorful dish never disappoints

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