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Hawaiian Chicken Thighs

Hawaiian Chicken Thighs
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Juicy and flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Thighs made with tender marinated chicken, sweet pineapple, savory soy sauce, and fresh garlic and ginger. This easy tropical recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a festive gathering, delivering a balanced blend of sweet, salty, and tangy island-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken & Marinade

  • 4–6 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless, skin-on recommended)
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 garlic cloves, freshly minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, freshly minced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or drained canned pineapple)
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Optional: toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until the sugar is dissolved and the marinade is smooth.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Add the marinade and pineapple chunks, seal, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to let flavors penetrate.
  3. Cook the Chicken Thighs: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade) and sear skin-side down until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and brown the other side.
  4. Simmer with Marinade and Pineapple: Pour reserved marinade and pineapple chunks into the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, spooning sauce over chicken to glaze, about 10-12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Garnish and Serve: Transfer chicken to a serving platter, drizzle with pan sauce, sprinkle with chopped green onions and optional toasted sesame seeds for a vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Use skin-on chicken thighs for crispy skin and juicier meat.
  • Marinating overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
  • Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the marinade’s sugar.
  • Let chicken rest 5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices.
  • Boil reserved marinade before using it as sauce to ensure food safety.

Nutrition

Keywords: Hawaiian chicken, chicken thighs, tropical chicken recipe, pineapple chicken, easy dinner, gluten free chicken, island flavors

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/hawaiian-chicken-thighs/