Ingredients
Hawaiian Chicken
- ~1 1/2 lbs chicken tenderloins (7-8 pieces)
- 1/2 fresh ripe pineapple
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 5-6 cloves fresh garlic
- 2 tbsp canola oil
- 2 tbsp honey
Coconut Rice
- 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice
- 3/4 cup coconut milk
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a food processor or blender, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, fresh garlic, and canola oil and blend until smooth to create the flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken tenderloins into a large zip lock bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage gently to make sure all chicken pieces are coated evenly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably up to 24 hours to maximize flavor and tenderness.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill pan, cast iron grill, charcoal grill, electric grill, or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and lightly grease it. Grill the chicken tenderloins until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, flipping halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
- Brush with Honey: Once the chicken is fully cooked, brush both sides of the tenderloins with honey to add a sticky, sweet glaze and remove from heat.
- Grill the Pineapple: Slice the fresh pineapple into 1/2 to 1-inch thick slices and grill on each side until caramelized and slightly charred, enhancing the natural sweetness.
- Cook the Coconut Rice: On the stovetop, combine the rice, coconut milk, and water in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover tightly with a lid, and cook without opening for 17-20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Alternatively, use a rice cooker following the manufacturer’s instructions using equal parts coconut milk and water.
- Combine and Serve: Fluff the cooked coconut rice with a fork and plate it as a base. Top with grilled chicken and pineapple slices. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately for a delicious tropical meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken longer (up to 24 hours) will deepen the flavor and tenderize the meat further.
- Use a tight-fitting lid when cooking the rice to ensure proper steam circulation and prevent moisture loss.
- If you prefer a sweeter rice, you may add a teaspoon of sugar or a pinch of salt to the coconut rice before cooking.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian