Looking for a sweet, savory, and exotic chicken dish? This Hawaiian Honey Pineapple Chicken is the perfect recipe for you! The juicy chicken pairs beautifully with a honey and pineapple glaze, creating a mouthwatering combination of tropical sweetness and savory flavors. Plus, it’s ready in 35 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or meal prep option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Tropical Flavor: The pineapple and honey create a naturally sweet and savory glaze.
- Versatile: Great for meal prep, reheats well, and is healthier than takeout.
- Perfect for a Crowd: This recipe is sure to impress at gatherings!
Ingredients for the Best Hawaiian Honey Pineapple Chicken:
For the Chicken & Marinade:
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
- ½ cup soy sauce (use low sodium for a healthier option)
- ¼ cup honey (for natural sweetness)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar (adds a bit of tang)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger (for that authentic Hawaiian flavor)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
For Thickening the Sauce:
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
Garnish & Serving:
- 4 slices pineapple (grilled for extra flavor)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds
Step-by-Step: How to Make Hawaiian Honey Pineapple Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (optional).
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken thighs (or breasts) in a shallow dish or sealable bag. Pour one-third of the marinade over the chicken and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for better flavor).
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the used marinade) and cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 4: Cook the Glaze
- Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry, then add it to the pan. Stir until the sauce thickens (about 2 minutes).
Step 5: Caramelize the Pineapple
- Add pineapple slices to the skillet and let them caramelize for about 2 minutes on each side.
Step 6: Glaze & Serve
- Drizzle the thickened sauce over the chicken and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately with Jasmine rice, Hawaiian macaroni salad, or grilled vegetables.
Pro Cooking Tips for the Best Hawaiian Chicken:
- Fresh Pineapple: Use fresh pineapple for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- Marinate Overnight: Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance its flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Grilling the chicken will give it an irresistible smoky taste.
- Chicken Breasts: You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts for a leaner option.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Honey Pineapple Chicken:
- Jasmine Rice: Soaks up the flavorful sauce.
- Hawaiian Macaroni Salad: A traditional side dish that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
- Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions make great sides to complement the dish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 24g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient substitutions.)
Storage & Leftovers – How to Keep It Fresh:
Refrigeration:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
- Freeze in a closed container for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Microwave in 30-second bursts until heated through.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of pineapple juice to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I cook this dish using an oven?
- Yes! Bake at 350°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, then broil for 2 minutes to caramelize the pineapple.
Can I use canned pineapple?
- Yes, but fresh pineapple gives a better caramelized taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos.
What other proteins could I use instead?
- Shrimp or tofu are great alternatives.
Related Recipes for Hawaiian Food Lovers:
- Baked Huli Huli Chicken – Another tasty Hawaiian-inspired dish.
- Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet – A flavorful one-pan dinner.
Final Thoughts – A Taste of Hawaii at Home:
This Hawaiian Honey Pineapple Chicken offers the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. It’s a simple yet stunning dish that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. Enjoy it tonight and let us know how you liked it—did you add any personal twists or serve it with other side dishes?
