Introduction to Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken
Welcome to my kitchen, where flavors dance and every meal tells a story! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken. This dish is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy, perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress your loved ones. Imagine the aroma of juicy chicken coated in a luscious pineapple glaze wafting through your home. It’s not just a meal; it’s a mini-vacation to the islands! So, grab your apron, and let’s embark on this tasty adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken
This Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken is a true gem in my recipe collection. It’s quick to prepare, taking just about 35 minutes from start to finish. The sweet and tangy glaze elevates the chicken, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice or grilled veggies. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to bring smiles and satisfied bellies!
Ingredients for Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken thighs: Bone-in or boneless, they’re juicy and flavorful, perfect for soaking up that glaze.
- Olive oil: A splash of this golden liquid helps to sear the chicken, adding a lovely richness.
- Salt & pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
- Pineapple juice: The star of the show! It brings that sweet, tropical vibe to the dish.
- Soy sauce: Adds a savory depth, balancing the sweetness of the pineapple.
- Honey or brown sugar: Either sweetener will give the glaze a delightful stickiness.
- Ketchup: A surprising ingredient that adds a hint of tang and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Ginger: Optional but amazing! It adds a zesty kick that complements the sweetness.
- Cornstarch: This thickening agent helps the glaze become glossy and cling to the chicken.
- Pineapple slices: Fresh or canned, they’re a fun topping that enhances the tropical theme.
- Fresh parsley or green onion: A sprinkle of these adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First, pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better. Next, sprinkle salt and pepper generously on both sides. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken in the skillet. Sear each side for about 4–5 minutes until they turn golden brown. Remember, we’re not cooking them all the way just yet; they’ll finish cooking later in the glaze!
Step 2: Make the Glaze
While the chicken is searing, let’s whip up that delicious glaze! In a bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, ketchup, minced garlic, and grated ginger if you’re using it. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended. Once the chicken is seared, pour the glaze into the skillet. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 3: Combine and Cook
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Spoon the luscious glaze over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. For an extra tropical touch, place a pineapple ring on top of each chicken thigh. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes. Alternatively, you can bake it in the oven at 190°C / 375°F for about 15 minutes. The chicken should be fully cooked and sticky by now!
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken is ready, it’s time to plate up! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up that amazing sauce. Trust me, every bite will transport you to a sunny beach in Hawaii. Enjoy your meal and the smiles it brings!
Tips for Success
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the glaze for a few hours before cooking.
- Use fresh pineapple for a vibrant taste, but canned works just as well!
- Don’t rush the searing process; it adds a beautiful color and flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the honey or brown sugar to your liking.
- Serve with a side of coconut rice for a tropical twist!
Equipment Needed
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders, but any heavy-bottomed pan will do.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing the glaze; a fork can work in a pinch!
- Meat thermometer: Helps ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly; a knife can check doneness too.
- Spatula: Great for flipping the chicken and spooning on that delicious glaze.
Variations
- Spicy Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the glaze for a kick of heat.
- Grilled Version: Marinate the chicken in the glaze and grill it for a smoky flavor. Perfect for summer barbecues!
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, and follow the same cooking method for a plant-based delight.
- Low-Carb Adaptation: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in place of honey or brown sugar for a keto-friendly version.
- Fruit Medley: Toss in diced bell peppers or snap peas for added color and crunch in the glaze.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken over fluffy white or coconut rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Pair with grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a colorful plate.
- A refreshing cucumber salad complements the sweetness beautifully.
- For drinks, try a tropical smoothie or a light, fruity cocktail.
FAQs about Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! While I love the juiciness of chicken thighs, boneless chicken breasts work just as well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as breasts may cook faster.
How can I make this Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken spicier?
If you’re looking to add some heat, try mixing in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the glaze. It’ll give your dish a delightful kick!
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the glaze a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure everything is well combined.
What can I serve with Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, grilled veggies, or even a fresh salad. The sweet glaze complements a variety of sides, making it a versatile meal!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce, and you’re all set to enjoy this delicious Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken without worry!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with those you love. The sweet and tangy glaze wraps around the chicken like a warm hug, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish brings a taste of the islands right to your table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. So, gather your loved ones, serve up this tropical delight, and let the smiles and laughter fill your home!
Print
Hawaiian Pineapple Glazed Chicken: A Tasty Recipe Adventure!
- Total Time: 35–45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious Hawaiian-inspired dish featuring chicken glazed with a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce.
Ingredients
- 4–6 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup pineapple juice (from canned works great)
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger (optional but amazing)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (slurry)
- Pineapple slices (fresh or canned rings)
- Fresh parsley or green onion (chopped)
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry & season with salt + pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side, until golden. (Don’t cook fully — it will finish later.)
- In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, ketchup, garlic, and ginger. Pour sauce into the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes. Add cornstarch slurry and stir until sauce becomes glossy & thick.
- Spoon the glaze all over the chicken. Place a pineapple ring on top of each piece. Let simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes, or bake at 190°C / 375°F for 15 minutes until chicken is fully cooked & sticky.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve immediately over rice to soak up the sauce.
Notes
- Best served with rice, grilled veggies, or coconut rice.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of honey or brown sugar.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the glaze for a few hours before cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet or Oven
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with glaze
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
