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Molokai Chicken

Savory Molokai Chicken: A Tropical Family Favorite

Molokai Chicken combines juicy chicken with a luscious glaze from pineapple and soy sauce, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 289

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs or breasts Thighs are more juicy; breasts are leaner.
For the Marinade
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple juice Enhances the flavor.
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce Coconut aminos work as a gluten-free alternative.
  • ¼ cup brown sugar Can be substituted with honey.
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced) Fresh is preferable.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated) Offers a bright flavor.
  • 1 lime juice Adjust to taste.
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil Olive oil can be used for allergies.
  • 1 dash black pepper Freshly ground is recommended.
For the Glaze
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Essential for thickening.
  • 2 tablespoons water To create the glaze.
For Serving
  • 2 green onions sliced Optional but recommended.
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks Ripe and sweet is best.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Pan
  • Grill
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Molokai Chicken
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, sesame oil, and black pepper to create a vibrant marinade.
  2. Coat the chicken in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally up to 4 hours.
  3. Pour the leftover marinade into a saucepan, bring to a simmer, and thicken with a cornstarch-water mixture over medium heat.
  4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F. Cook the chicken on the grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or bake for 20-25 minutes.
  5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes; then slice and serve topped with pineapple chunks and green onions, drizzling any remaining glaze over it.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 289kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 25gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 620mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 80IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Marinate the chicken overnight for better flavor, and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

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