Easy Make Hawaiian Tropical Grilled Chicken Recipe

If you want to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise, look no further than the mouthwatering Hawaiian Tropical Grilled Chicken Recipe.

Bursting with the flavors of the islands, this delightful dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with the tanginess of soy sauce and the warmth of ginger to create a compelling culinary experience.

Whether hosting a summer barbecue or seeking a delightful family meal, this Hawaiian-inspired recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.

So, let’s fire up the grill and embark on a delicious journey to the enchanting flavors of Hawaii!

What is the Hawaiian Tropical Grilled Chicken Recipe?

Hawaiian Tropical Grilled Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines marinated chicken breasts with a sweet and tangy marinade made from pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.

The marinated chicken is grilled perfectly, creating a tender and juicy meal with a tropical flair. It’s often served with grilled pineapple slices for an extra burst of island-inspired flavor.

How Long Will It Take To Prepare?

• Marinating the chicken: 5-10 minutes (mixing the marinade and coating the chicken)
• Marinating time: 2 hours to overnight (to allow the flavors to infuse)
• Preparing the grill: 10-15 minutes (preheating and oiling the grill grates)
• Grilling the chicken: 10-15 minutes (cooking time per side may vary based on grill temperature and thickness of the chicken breasts)
• Total approximate preparation time: 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours (including marinating time)
• Serves: 4 people

How To Make Hawaiian Tropical Grilled Chicken Recipe?

Essential Ingredients For Hawaiian Tropical Grilled Chicken Recipe:

• Four boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• Two tablespoons of rice vinegar
• Two tablespoons of olive oil
• Two cloves garlic, minced
• One teaspoon of ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Pineapple slices (fresh or canned) for garnish
• Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)

Essential Instructions For Hawaiian Tropical Grilled Chicken Recipe:

Step 1

Combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper in a medium-sized bowl. Stir well to make the marinade.

Step 2

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s fully coated.

Step 3

Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to infuse into the chicken.

Step 4

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

Step 5

Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and let it come to room temperature before grilling. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.

Step 6

Grill the chicken breasts on the preheated grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until they are cooked through and have excellent grill marks.

Step 7

While grilling the chicken, you can also grill some fresh pineapple slices for a few minutes on each side until they get caramelized and slightly charred. Once the chicken is done, please remove it from the grill and rest for a few minutes.

Step 8

Serve the Hawaiian Tropical Grilled Chicken with the grilled pineapple slices on top. You can garnish it with fresh cilantro or green onions for added color and flavor.

Step 9

Pair the dish with your favorite side dishes like coconut rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh tropical salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Additional Tips for Hawaiian Tropical Grilled Chicken Recipe:

1. Pound the chicken breasts: Before marinating the chicken, you can pound the chicken breasts slightly with a meat mallet or the back of a heavy pan. This helps to even out the thickness of the chicken, ensuring it cooks more evenly on the grill.
2. Don’t over-marinate: While marinating the chicken is essential for flavor, avoid marinating too long, mainly if the marinade contains acidic ingredients like pineapple juice or vinegar. Prolonged marinating can break down the texture of the chicken and make it mushy. 2 to 24 hours of marinating is generally sufficient for this recipe.
3. Baste while grilling: As you examine the chicken, consider basting it with the leftover marinade or a fresh batch to keep the chicken moist and add flavor. Make sure to discard any marinade that came into contact with raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination.
4. Preheat the grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on the grates. This helps to sear the outside of the chicken quickly, locking in the juices and creating those beautiful grill marks.
5. Oil the grill grates: To prevent sticking, lightly oil the grill grates before placing the chicken on them. You can use a brush, or a paper towel dipped in oil to do this.
6. Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Avoid overcooking, as it can result in dry chicken.

Precautions for Hawaiian Tropical Grilled Chicken Recipe:

1. Food Safety: Always follow proper food safety practices when handling raw chicken. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling raw chicken. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination with other foods.
2. Grill Safety: Ensure you are grilling in a safe environment away from flammable materials, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby, just in case.
3. Marinate Properly: If you plan to use some of the marinade as a sauce, set aside a separate portion before adding it to the raw chicken. Please do not reuse the marinade that came into contact with raw chicken, as it can contain harmful bacteria.
4. Outdoor Grilling: If grilling outdoors, watch the weather conditions. Grilling during heavy rain or strong winds can be dangerous.
5. Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: Check for any dietary restrictions or allergies among your guests and adjust the recipe accordingly. For example, you can use gluten-free soy sauce or substitute ingredients to meet nutritional needs.

Nutrition Facts of Hawaiian Tropical Grilled Chicken Recipe:

It’s important to note that the nutritional content may vary depending on factors such as the size of the chicken breasts, the amount of marinade absorbed, and any additional side dishes or accompaniments used.

Five Best Variations Hawaiian Tropical Grilled Chicken Recipe:

1. Teriyaki Glazed Hawaiian Grilled Chicken

Marinate the chicken in a homemade or store-bought teriyaki sauce with pineapple juice, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.

Grill the chicken as usual, and as it nears doneness, brush it with additional teriyaki sauce to create a glossy glaze. Serve with grilled pineapple and sesame seeds for extra texture.

2. Coconut Lime Hawaiian Grilled Chicken

Mix coconut milk, lime juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, and honey for a creamy and zesty marinade.

Let the chicken soak up these tropical flavors before grilling. Once cooked, top the chicken with toasted coconut flakes and fresh lime zest to enhance the low experience.

3. Spicy Pineapple Jalapeno Hawaiian Grilled Chicken

Add a kick of heat to the classic recipe by incorporating finely chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes into the marinade.

The combination of sweet pineapple and spicy jalapeno will tantalize your taste buds. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for added freshness.

4. Mango Ginger Glazed Hawaiian Grilled Chicken

Create a vibrant marinade with pureed mango, fresh ginger, lime juice, honey, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a balanced sweet and tangy taste.

Grill the chicken perfectly and brush with the mango ginger glaze as it cooks. Serve with sliced mango and chopped mint leaves for color and flavor.

5. Pineapple Coconut Rum Hawaiian Grilled Chicken

Combine pineapple juice, coconut rum, brown sugar, soy sauce, and grated fresh ginger in the marinade for an adult version of this tropical dish.

The rum adds a warm note to the chicken, and grilling it caramelizes the sugars for a delightful taste. Serve with a slice of grilled pineapple and a sprinkle of toasted coconut.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hawaiian Tropical Grilled Chicken is a delightful and flavorful dish that brings the taste of the islands to your table.

Its sweet and tangy marinade, grilled chicken, and tropical garnishes offer a delicious and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or venture into the diverse variations, this dish will impress and transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite. Enjoy the taste of Hawaii with this mouthwatering grilled chicken recipe!

People Frequently Ask Questions

How do I make the best Hawaiian tropical grilled chicken?

To make the best Hawaiian tropical grilled chicken, start by marinating boneless chicken breasts in pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours for maximum flavor, preferably overnight. Grill the chicken until cooked and serve with grilled pineapple slices for an authentic tropical experience.

What are the ingredients for the marinade in a Hawaiian tropical grilled chicken recipe?

The critical ingredients for the marinade in a Hawaiian tropical grilled chicken recipe are pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. These ingredients combine to create a sweet and tangy flavor profile that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. However, marinating it overnight allows the flavors to infuse deeply into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chicken.

What are some recommended side dishes to serve with Hawaiian tropical grilled chicken?

Recommended side dishes to serve with Hawaiian tropical grilled chicken include coconut rice, grilled vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions), tropical fruit salad, or a fresh green salad with a citrusy dressing. These sides complement the sweet and tangy flavors of the chicken, enhancing the overall meal.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance and freeze it for later use?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and freeze it for later use. Simply combine the ingredients for the marinade in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container, and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using and ensure the chicken is fully coated in the marinade before grilling.