The scent of grilled chicken wafts through the air, mingling with the fragrant notes of pineapple and soy sauce. Imagine biting into a juicy piece of delicious Hawaiian grilled chicken, where each mouthful is a mini-vacation to a sun-soaked beach. For more inspiration, check out this lunch recipes recipe.
Picture yourself gathered around the grill with friends, laughter echoing as you share stories while anticipating that first savory bite. This recipe is not just about food; it’s about creating memories that linger long after the last crumb has disappeared.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious Hawaiian grilled chicken offers an easy preparation process that anyone can master
- Its sweet and savory flavor profile will impress your taste buds
- The vibrant colors make for a stunning presentation on your dinner table
- Ideal for cookouts but versatile enough for weeknight dinners, this dish suits any occasion
Everyone raved about how delicious this Hawaiian grilled chicken was during our last family barbecue; I think my uncle even tried to sneak away with the leftovers.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use 3-4 chicken breasts, adjusting based on how many guests are joining.
- Pineapple Juice: Fresh juice elevates the sweetness; canned works too if you’re in a pinch.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness without compromising flavor.
- Fresh Ginger: Grate fresh ginger for a zesty kick that brightens up the marinade.
- Garlic Cloves: Use fresh cloves for robust flavor; they pack more punch than pre-minced versions.
- Brown Sugar: This adds caramelization during grilling and balances out the salty soy sauce.
- Pineapple Chunks (optional): Grilled pineapple brings a tropical flair; who can resist that charred goodness?
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare your taste buds; it’s time to dive into creating this culinary delight!
Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and brown sugar. Taste-test to ensure that perfect balance between sweet and salty is achieved.
Marinate the Chicken: Place your chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight if you’re feeling fancy.
Preheat Your Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C). Ensure your grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Grill the Chicken: Remove marinated chicken from the fridge and let excess marinade drip off. Place them on the grill for about 6-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Add Pineapple Chunks (optional): If using pineapple chunks, add them to the grill in the last few minutes of cooking. Grill until they get beautiful grill marks and soften slightly.
Let It Rest!: Once cooked, remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps all those juicy flavors locked in!
Now you’re ready to serve up some delicious Hawaiian grilled chicken! Enjoy it with rice or toss together a refreshing salad as sides for an unforgettable meal.
You Must Know
- This delicious Hawaiian grilled chicken recipe combines sweet and savory flavors, perfect for summer barbecues
- The marinade not only enhances the taste but also helps keep the chicken moist and juicy
- The vibrant colors will have everyone at your table asking for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
For the best results, marinate your chicken for at least an hour, then grill it over medium-high heat. This ensures a juicy inside with a perfectly charred outside.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pineapple juice for orange juice or add ginger for an extra kick. Personalize it to suit your taste buds!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through to maintain flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Grilling is all about timing; don’t rush it!
- Letting the chicken rest after grilling locks in moisture and flavor
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking
- Marinade time enhances flavor; longer is better!
Sharing this delightful recipe with friends for the first time was unforgettable; they were absolutely impressed and kept asking for my secret ingredient!
FAQ
What makes Hawaiian grilled chicken unique?
The combination of sweet pineapple and savory soy sauce creates a tropical flavor explosion.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Absolutely! Thighs or drumsticks work beautifully and are even more flavorful.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Hawaiian Grilled Chicken
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hawaiian grilled chicken is a delightful dish that transports you straight to a tropical paradise. Juicy, marinated chicken breasts infused with sweet pineapple and savory soy sauce create an unforgettable flavor experience. Perfect for summer cookouts or casual weeknight dinners, this recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also leaves lasting memories shared with friends and family around the grill.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Pineapple chunks (optional)
Instructions
- Whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar in a bowl to make the marinade.
- Place chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375°F).
- Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- If using pineapple chunks, add them to the grill during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: Customize by substituting pineapple juice with orange juice for a different flavor profile. For added zest, include extra ginger in the marinade. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently in a skillet.