Ready in: 1 hour 10 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Grilling · Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
To make Hawaiian Grilled Chicken, marinate chicken thighs in a sweet and savory mix, grill until cooked, and serve with optional grilled pineapple.
As I was prepping for a recent gathering in the bustling heart of New York City, I craved something that captured the spirit of the holidays while offering a hint of tropical escape. This Hawaiian Grilled Chicken quickly became the star of my menu, promising a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that would appeal to my friends and family. The process is simple yet rewarding, making it ideal for those festive occasions where we gather to celebrate.
A Flavor-Packed Holiday Dish
This recipe not only brings a taste of the islands but also makes for a delightful centerpiece at any holiday dinner table. Whether you're hosting a Thanksgiving feast or a casual get-together, this Hawaiian Grilled Chicken is sure to impress and satisfy your guests.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and savory marinade creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
- Grilled chicken pairs beautifully with fresh pineapple, elevating your meal.
- This recipe ensures juicy, tender chicken every time.
- Easy to customize with additional flavors like lime for a zesty twist.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Hawaiian Grilled Chicken:
For the Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
For Grilling
- Fresh pineapple slices, for grilling (optional)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
How to Make Hawaiian Grilled Chicken (Step-by-Step)
This recipe brings the tropical flavors of Hawaii right to your backyard. Follow these simple steps for a mouthwatering meal!
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. As you mix these ingredients, let the sweet and savory aroma transport you to a Hawaiian paradise.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or ideally overnight. Remember, the longer the chicken marinates, the better the flavors meld!
Step 3: Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, making sure to oil the grates to prevent sticking. A clean grill will yield perfect sear marks and flavor, so grab your favorite grill brush.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chicken thighs on the hot grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken will caramelize beautifully, forming a glossy, irresistible crust.
Step 5: Grill the Pineapple (optional)
If you're looking to elevate the dish, add fresh pineapple slices to the grill for the last few minutes of cooking. The sugars in the pineapple will caramelize, providing a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This step is crucial for keeping the chicken moist. Serve it garnished with chopped green onions alongside the grilled pineapple.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't Skip the Marinade Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for a shorter period results in less flavor. Aim for that overnight marination when possible.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Grill: Cooking too many pieces at once can lower the grill temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
- Don't Forget to Rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately will let the juices escape, leaving you with dry meat. Patience pays off here!
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Try adding a splash of lime juice to the marinade for a zesty note.
- Serve the grilled chicken with coconut rice and a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- For a smoky flavor, consider using wood chips in your grilling process.
Variations
- Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Incorporate fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint into the marinade for added freshness.
How to Serve
- Serve garnished with chopped green onions for added color and flavor.
- Pair with grilled pineapple slices for a sweet contrast.
- Complement the dish with a side of tropical fruit salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: The marinade can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Gently warm leftovers in a skillet or the microwave, being cautious to avoid drying them out.
- Freezing: Chicken can be marinated and frozen. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through testing this recipe, I discovered the importance of balancing sweetness with acidity in marinades. A splash of citrus can amplify flavors in ways I hadn't anticipated, especially during the holiday season when I'm preparing meals for gatherings. This dish will undoubtedly be a staple for my Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~250 calories · 20g protein · 12g carbs · 15g fat
Recipe by:
Delicious Hawaiian Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or ideally overnight.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, making sure to oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chicken thighs on the hot grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- If using, add fresh pineapple slices to the grill for the last few minutes of cooking.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it garnished with chopped green onions alongside the grilled pineapple.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs. However, chicken thighs tend to be juicier and are less likely to dry out on the grill. If using breasts, be sure to monitor the cooking time closely.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but ideally, you should marinate it overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more the flavors will develop.
Can I grill the chicken indoors?
Yes, if you don't have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop or an indoor electric grill. Just make sure to adequately ventilate the kitchen to avoid smoke buildup.
