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
- 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.
- 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
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.If using a stovetop grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat.
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- 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
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Chicken Breast) |
| Calories | 280 |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sodium | 800mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 16g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 14g |
| Protein | 35g |
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!
