Description
Are you craving a delicious, easy-to-make chicken dish that’s packed with sweet and savory tropical flavors? This Hawaiian Honey Pineapple Chicken recipe is the perfect combination of juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and a rich, sticky honey glaze.
Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, a meal-prep-friendly dish, or a crowd-pleasing recipe, this one checks all the boxes! Let’s explore how to make the best Hawaiian chicken recipe at home.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
- 1 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
- ½ cup soy sauce (use low sodium soy sauce for a healthier option)
- ¼ cup honey (for a natural sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (adds a mild tang)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (for authentic Hawaiian flavor)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
For Thickening the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For Garnish & Serving:
- 4 pineapple slices (grilled for extra flavor)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
Step1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:Pineapple juiceSoy sauceHoney & brown sugarRice vinegar & sesame oilMinced garlic & grated gingerRed pepper flakes (optional)
Step2: Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish.
- Pour half of the marinade over the chicken.
- Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (2 hours recommended for more flavor).
Step3: Sear the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard used marinade).
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Step4: Cook the Glaze
- Reduce heat to medium.
- Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water mixture) and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step5: Caramelize the Pineapple
- Add pineapple slices to the skillet.
- Let them caramelize for 1-2 minutes per side.
Step6: Glaze & Serve
- Spoon the glossy sauce over the chicken.
- Garnish with chopped green onions & sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or grilled vegetables.
Equipment
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
Use fresh pineapple for a more natural sweetness.
Marinate overnight for extra juicy and flavorful chicken.
Grill the chicken for a smokier, charred taste.
Swap chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.