We love diving into dishes that bring a taste of the tropics to our kitchen, and our Hawaiian Garlic Chicken recipe is a perfect example. This flavorful favorite draws from island roots, blending bold garlic with local Hawaiian influences for a mouthwatering twist on comfort food.
It’s an easy way to spice up your weeknight meals, offering that irresistible mix of savory and sweet vibes we’ve come to adore. Join us as we explore this simple recipe that’s sure to become a go-to in your home.
Ingredients
As we dive into our Hawaiian Garlic Chicken recipe, let’s gather the key ingredients that bring together the bold garlic flavors with tropical Hawaiian sweetness. We’ll list them in the order they’re typically used, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes for accuracy.
- Chicken: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- Garlic: 8 cloves fresh garlic, minced finely to release its pungent, aromatic essence that forms the heart of this dish.
- Soy Sauce: 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce, which adds a savory umami base we stir in early to marinate the chicken.
- Pineapple Juice: 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple juice, strained if needed, to infuse tropical sweetness and tenderize the meat.
- Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, dissolved quickly for a caramelized glaze that balances the garlic’s intensity.
- Ginger: 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated, to introduce a zesty, warming note that complements the Hawaiian vibe.
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons for searing, ensuring a golden crust on the chicken without overpowering its natural flavors.
- Green Onions: 1/4 cup sliced green onions, reserved for garnish to add a fresh, crisp finish once the dish is plated.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients, we guide you through preparing and cooking our irresistible Hawaiian Garlic Chicken to achieve that perfect balance of savory garlic and sweet pineapple notes.
Prep
Before we start cooking, let’s prepare our ingredients to ensure everything comes together smoothly. Begin by trimming any excess fat from 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs and cutting them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Next, mince 8 cloves of garlic and grate 1 tablespoon of ginger to release their pungent aromas that will infuse the dish with bold flavors.
In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 cup of pineapple juice, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar, whisking until the sugar dissolves completely for a glossy marinade. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to this mixture, stirring well to blend the ingredients into a fragrant base. Finally, measure out 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and set aside 1/4 cup of sliced green onions for garnishing later, keeping everything organized for a seamless transition to cooking.
Cook
With our ingredients prepped, we move to the stovetop to bring out the vibrant flavors of Hawaiian Garlic Chicken. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then add the chicken pieces and sear them for 4-5 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust and release a savory aroma that signals they’re ready for the sauce.
Once the chicken is browned, pour in the prepared marinade mixture, stirring to coat the pieces evenly as the sauce begins to bubble and thicken over 8-10 minutes of simmering. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is tender and infused with the sweet-tangy essence of pineapple and garlic. Remove from heat, garnish with the sliced green onions for a fresh, crisp finish, and serve immediately to enjoy the dish’s glossy sauce and irresistible tropical flavors.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Hawaiian Garlic Chicken recipe to life seamlessly, we rely on a few essential tools that make preparation and cooking straightforward and efficient. These items ensure that our steps—from prepping ingredients to searing and simmering—flow smoothly from the instructions we’ve already covered.
Here’s a curated list of the key equipment we recommend:
- Cutting board: A sturdy, non-slip surface for safely trimming the chicken thighs and mincing garlic and ginger, helping us achieve precise cuts without any hassle.
- Sharp knife: Essential for handling the chicken and aromatics; we always opt for a high-quality blade to make quick, clean work of prep tasks.
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for whisking together the marinade components like soy sauce, pineapple juice, and brown sugar, allowing us to combine flavors evenly.
- Whisk or fork: Used to blend the marinade thoroughly; a whisk provides better aeration for that glossy sauce we love in this dish.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate tools for measuring ingredients such as pineapple juice and brown sugar, ensuring our recipe’s balance of sweet and savory elements is spot-on every time.
- Large skillet or frying pan: Our go-to for searing the chicken until golden brown and then simmering it in the marinade; choose one with a heavy bottom for even heat distribution.
- Tongs: Perfect for flipping and turning the chicken during searing, giving us control to achieve that irresistible caramelized exterior.
- Stove or cooktop: The heat source for cooking; we find a gas or electric stove works best to maintain the right temperature for simmering.
By having these tools ready, we can transition effortlessly from ingredient prep to the cooking process, creating a dish that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enhance the convenience of our Hawaiian Garlic Chicken recipe, we can prepare elements in advance, saving time while preserving those vibrant tropical flavors. This approach allows us to focus on searing and simmering when it’s time to cook, ensuring a seamless experience from prep to plate.
Preparing the Marinade Ahead
We recommend making the marinade up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor infusion. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 cup of pineapple juice, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 8 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger. Once combined, transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate it. This step lets the garlic and ginger meld with the sweet and savory notes, creating a glossy sauce that’s even more irresistible when you add the chicken later.
Marinating the Chicken
For optimal taste, we suggest marinating the 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs ahead of time. Place the trimmed chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, pour in the prepared marinade, and seal it tightly. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours, turning the bag occasionally to ensure even coating. This allows the bold garlic essence and tropical pineapple undertones to penetrate the meat, resulting in tender, flavorful bites that evoke the spirit of Hawaii.
Prepping Ingredients
To streamline our cooking process, we can chop and measure ingredients in advance. Mince the 8 cloves of garlic and grate the 1 tablespoon of ginger, then store them in separate small containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Slice the 1/4 cup of green onions for garnish and keep them wrapped in a damp paper towel in an airtight bag. This quick prep reduces hands-on time and keeps everything fresh, making it easier to achieve that perfect golden sear.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
If we want to go further, portions of the cooked Hawaiian Garlic Chicken can be made ahead and stored. After cooking, let the dish cool completely, then divide it into meal-sized portions and place in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months—here’s a quick overview in table form for reference:
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or pineapple juice to restore the glossy sauce, stirring until heated through (about 5-7 minutes). |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as above, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and to maintain its juicy texture. |
By following these tips, we ensure our Hawaiian Garlic Chicken remains a quick, flavorful weeknight staple without compromising on taste or convenience.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Hawaiian Garlic Chicken recipe as it’s packed with tropical vibes that elevate simple dinners. It’s become one of our go-to meals for its effortless prep and bold flavors that keep everyone coming back.
Try whipping it up tonight and enjoy how it adds a fresh twist to your weekly routine—we’re confident it’ll become a staple in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hawaiian Garlic Chicken?
Hawaiian Garlic Chicken is a flavorful tropical dish featuring tender chicken thighs infused with garlic, soy sauce, pineapple juice, and ginger for a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. It’s an easy weeknight meal that’s simple to prepare and packed with island-inspired taste.
What ingredients are needed for Hawaiian Garlic Chicken?
The key ingredients include 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, 8 cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 cup of pineapple juice, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, and 1/4 cup of sliced green onions for garnish. These create a delicious sweet-savory profile.
How do you prepare Hawaiian Garlic Chicken?
Start by prepping ingredients like trimming chicken and mincing garlic. Whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger for a marinade. Sear the chicken in oil until golden, then simmer in the marinade until tender. Garnish with green onions and serve. The whole process takes about 30-40 minutes.
What equipment is required for this recipe?
You’ll need a cutting board, sharp knife, large mixing bowl, whisk or fork, measuring cups and spoons, large skillet or frying pan, tongs, and a stove. These tools ensure efficient prep and cooking, making the process smooth and enjoyable for home cooks.
Can I make Hawaiian Garlic Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavors, and marinate the chicken ahead to enhance taste. Pre-chop ingredients to streamline cooking. This makes it ideal for busy schedules while keeping the dish fresh and flavorful.
How should I store Hawaiian Garlic Chicken?
Store cooked portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain texture and flavors, ensuring it stays a convenient meal option.