Hawaiian Chicken Recipe

Ready to be whisked away to the islands? This Hawaiian Chicken is a flavor-packed tropical escape in every bite! Juicy marinated chicken, grilled pineapples, and fragrant coconut rice make this one-pan wonder a weeknight game-changer and a crowd-pleaser at any cookout.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about what makes Hawaiian Chicken so memorable—the ingredients! Each one has a purpose, from creating bold, layered flavor to giving you that gorgeous golden color and irresistible aroma.

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: Tender, juicy, and ideal for grilling, thighs soak up all that fabulous marinade flavor.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Adds savory umami depth without overpowering the dish—lower sodium lets the sweet and tangy notes shine.
• Packed Light Brown Sugar: Gives the chicken its caramelized, sticky-sweet finish while balancing the saltiness of soy.
• Minced Garlic: Just a touch delivers tons of punchy, aromatic flavor in every bite.
• Sesame Oil: A few drops of this nutty oil bring the marinade together and add a subtle richness.
• Light Coconut Milk: This is your ticket to velvety coconut rice and extra-moist chicken—plus it imparts a delicate sweetness.
• Pineapple Juice: Gives the marinade its signature tropical tang and helps tenderize the meat.
• Fresh or Canned Pineapple Slices: You’ll grill these alongside the chicken for sweet, smoky bites that make every plate feel special.
• White Rice (Short Grain Preferred): Plump, sticky rice captures all the sauce and coconut goodness—short grain is perfect, but long-grain works too.
• Kosher Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in both the rice and the chicken.
• Cilantro Leaves & Lime Wedges (Optional): They bring fresh, zippy notes and vibrant color to your finished plate. Don’t skip if you love a little extra pop!

Variations

One of the joys of Hawaiian Chicken is just how easy it is to tweak based on what you have, your dietary needs, or whatever flavors you’re currently obsessed with. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Swap the Protein: Try chicken breasts for a leaner bite, or use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian spin—the same marinade works wonders.
• Add a Spicy Kick: Stir a splash of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the marinade for gentle heat that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of pineapple.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep things safe for gluten sensitivities.
• Fresh Fruit Fiesta: Grill fresh mango or peach slices alongside the pineapple for even more sunny flavor!

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken

Step 1: Mix the Marinade

In a large bowl or resealable bag, whisk together soy sauce, water, brown sugar, minced garlic, sesame oil, coconut milk, and pineapple juice. This tropical bath is where all the magic begins—rich, savory, sweet, and irresistible!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken thighs to the marinade, turning to coat every piece well. Let them soak up the flavor for at least 2 hours, or go all out and marinate overnight for the juiciest, most flavorful results.

Step 3: Fire Up the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side. You’re looking for beautiful caramelized edges and that mouthwatering grilled aroma—don’t rush this step!

Step 4: Grill the Pineapple

When you flip the chicken, add pineapple slices to the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, just until they get lovely grill marks and are warm and juicy. This is what gives Hawaiian Chicken that signature tropical twist.

Step 5: Make the Coconut Rice

While your chicken grills, combine coconut milk and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Add salt and rice, then cover and simmer on low for 18 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in a touch of brown sugar for that signature hint of sweetness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the grilled Hawaiian Chicken and pineapple atop your fluffy coconut rice, and finish with lime wedges and cilantro if you’re feeling extra festive. Every plate is a vacation in your own kitchen!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime take Hawaiian Chicken from delicious to downright dazzling. Don’t forget the grilled pineapple—it’s more than a garnish; it’s the star of the show!

Side Dishes

This dish absolutely shines alongside bright, crunchy sides. Try a crisp cabbage slaw, a simple green salad, or roasted veggies. And of course, that coconut rice soaks up every last drop of the sweet-savory sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a true luau vibe, serve your Hawaiian Chicken in pineapple “boats” for a showstopping presentation. Or, go family-style with a big platter of sliced chicken, rice, and toppings so everyone can build their perfect plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Hawaiian Chicken will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Store the rice, pineapple, and chicken separately to help everything taste fresh and fabulous when you’re ready for round two!

Freezing

Grilled chicken freezes well—simply cool it completely, then tuck portions into freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for a tropical treat anytime.

Reheating

Reheat Hawaiian Chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of coconut milk or water to keep it moist. The rice comes back to life with a quick steam—cover it with a damp paper towel and zap until hot.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re longing for a taste of sunshine, give this Hawaiian Chicken a try! It’s bright, crowd-pleasing, and guaranteed to be the kind of recipe you come back to whenever you need a little dinnertime escape. Aloha and happy cooking!

Print