Hawaiian Chicken is a sweet and savory dish that brings tropical flavors to your table with minimal effort. The chicken is marinated in a delightful combination of pineapple juice, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, giving it a delicious balance of sweet and tangy flavors. As the chicken bakes or grills, it becomes juicy and tender, while the caramelized pineapple adds a burst of sweetness. This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal, and pairs wonderfully with rice or grilled vegetables. Hawaiian Chicken is a flavorful escape to the islands in every bite!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in juice (reserve juice)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice (reserved from the can), soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, olive oil, and sesame oil (if using). Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then add them to the marinade. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C). If grilling, grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If baking, place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, basting with extra marinade occasionally.
- Grill the Pineapple:
- While the chicken is cooking, grill or sear the pineapple slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, until caramelized and lightly browned.
- Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked, garnish with chopped green onions and serve with grilled pineapple slices on top. Pair with rice or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Hawaiian Chicken offers a delicious mix of tropical sweetness and savory depth, making it a perfect meal to bring a little sunshine to your dinner table. Whether grilled or baked, this flavorful chicken dish is sure to become a family favorite!
