Discover the flavors of Hawaii with our detailed guide on making Hawaiian Bros Molokai Chicken. This recipe captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine with a sweet and spicy twist, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a tropical-themed party or simply craving some exotic flavors, this guide will provide everything you need to create a delicious Molokai Chicken meal.

Ingredients

For the Molokai Chicken Marinade:

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: 4 large pieces
• Pineapple Juice: 1 cup (use long-shelf-life juice, not fresh)
• Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup
• Honey: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Fresh Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced
• Sriracha or Hot Sauce: 1 tablespoon (or to taste)
• Sherry or Chinese Cooking Wine: 2 tablespoons (or substitute with chicken stock)
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons

For Garnish and Serving:

• Pineapple Slices: 4-6 slices, for grilling and garnish
• Chopped Green Onions: 2 tablespoons
• Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon
• Lime Wedges: For serving

For the Plate Lunch (optional sides):

• White Rice: 2 cups, cooked
• Macaroni Salad: 2 cups
• Seasoned Vegetables: 2 cups (such as bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Marinade

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, Sriracha (or hot sauce), sherry (or chicken stock), salt, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Place chicken breasts or thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
   • Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully covered.
   • Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. For the best results, marinate overnight or up to 48 hours.

2. Grilling the Chicken

1. Preheat the Grill:
   • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.If using a stovetop grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat. 
2. Grill the Chicken:
   • Remove the chicken from the marinade, setting aside some of the marinade for basting. 
   • Brush the grill grates with vegetable oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. 
   • Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).  
   • Baste the chicken with the reserved marinade during grilling, flipping frequently to ensure even cooking and a glossy glaze.
3. Grill Pineapple Slices:
   • While the chicken is grilling, place pineapple slices on the grill.
   • Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until they have nice grill marks and are slightly caramelized.

3. Serving the Molokai Chicken

1. Prepare the Plate Lunch:
   • Serve the grilled Molokai Chicken with white rice, macaroni salad, and seasoned vegetables.
   • Garnish with grilled pineapple slices, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds.
   • Add lime wedges on the side for a fresh citrus kick.
2. Optional Sides:
   • For a more traditional Hawaiian plate lunch, you can include additional sides like Hawaiian-style potato salad or corn on the cob.

Nutrition Facts

Note:  Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Reviews

Jane D.: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Absolutely delicious! The Molokai Chicken was a hit at our luau party. The marinade was perfect, and the grilled pineapple added a great touch.”

Mark R.: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The flavors were fantastic, though I found the chicken a bit too sweet for my taste. Next time, I’ll use less honey and adjust the hot sauce.”

Emily S.: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Easy to make and full of tropical flavors. The recipe is straightforward, and the chicken turned out juicy and flavorful.”

Community Tips and Praise

• Tip from Linda G.: “If you don’t have sherry, try using a splash of orange juice for a different twist. It adds a nice fruity flavor to the marinade.”
• Tip from Carlos M.: “For extra flavor, add a bit of grated ginger to the basting marinade. It enhances the ginger flavor and gives the chicken a nice zing.”
• Tip from Sarah T.: “Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to avoid overcooking. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). 

FAQs

Can I use this recipe with other proteins like pork or tofu?

Yes, the marinade works well with pork or tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly: pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F, and tofu should be cooked until crispy and heated through.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

 Ensure that the soy sauce is gluten-free or substitute with tamari. Also, check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I bake the Molokai Chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until fully cooked. Baste the chicken with the marinade halfway through baking for added flavor.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

The Hawaiian Bros Molokai Chicken recipe is a delightful way to bring a taste of Hawaii into your home. With its sweet and spicy marinade, easy grilling instructions, and versatile serving options, it’s a perfect dish for any tropical-themed gathering or a flavorful weeknight dinner. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious and authentic Hawaiian meal that will impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!