Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

A Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that brings the taste of the islands to your kitchen. This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. The combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and colorful bell peppers creates a visually appealing and delicious meal that everyone will love. With its easy-to-follow steps and minimal cooking time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The balance of savory chicken, sweet pineapple, and tangy sauce delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it a flexible option.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this dish; it’s a great way to introduce new flavors without overwhelming picky eaters.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into this Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe, gather a few essential tools that will make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly while providing enough space for all the ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining sauce ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the stir-fry.

Ingredients

A flavorful and easy-to-make Hawaiian Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breast pieces cooked with sweet pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and a tangy homemade sauce. This dish offers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and a hint of spice, served with a deliciously thickened sauce topped with sesame seeds and green onions.

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 15 oz pineapple chunks (juice and fruit separated)
• About 1 cup pineapple juice (from the can)
• ⅓ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
• Sesame seeds, for topping
• Green onion, chopped, for topping

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine about 1 cup of pineapple juice from the can with ⅓ cup chicken broth. Add ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, 1 clove minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon grated ginger. If you like some heat, include ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes. Mix well and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 teaspoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breast pieces seasoned with salt and pepper. Sear them for about 8 minutes while stirring occasionally until they are nearly cooked through.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add the diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until it softens slightly.

Step 4: Incorporate Pineapple

Stir in the pineapple chunks and allow them to cook with the other ingredients for an additional 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Sauce Mixture

Pour your prepared sauce mixture into the skillet. Stir everything together to ensure all ingredients are coated. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes so that flavors meld together nicely.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to create a slurry. Gradually add this slurry to the skillet while stirring continuously until the sauce reaches your desired thickness. Cook for another couple of minutes to ensure it’s well thickened.

Step 7: Garnish Before Serving

Before serving your delicious Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for added texture and flavor!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

Serving your Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry can enhance the meal experience. Here are some creative ways to present this vibrant dish that will delight your family and friends.

Serve Over Rice

• White Rice: A classic choice, white rice soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor.
• Coconut Rice: This sweet twist complements the tropical flavors of the stir-fry.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad with mixed greens balances the meal with freshness.
• Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad adds a crisp texture.
• Mango Salsa: Sweet mango salsa enhances the dish’s tropical taste.

Add Some Crunch

• Crispy Wontons: Serving crispy wontons on the side provides an enjoyable crunch.
• Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle toasted cashews or almonds over the stir-fry for added texture.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and pineapple chunks will elevate the flavors significantly.
• Marinate Chicken: Allowing chicken to marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes enhances its taste and tenderness.
• Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to modify red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level; you can also omit them entirely.
• Cook in Batches: If you’re making a larger quantity, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Ensure that you mix cornstarch thoroughly with water before adding it to avoid lumps in your sauce.
• Garnish Creatively: Top your dish with fresh herbs or citrus zest for an extra pop of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

Complementing your Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry with delicious side dishes can make your meal more satisfying. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: This healthy green side pairs well and adds a nice color contrast.
2. Fried Rice: A classic Asian side that combines flavors perfectly, especially if you add some scrambled eggs and peas.
3. Grilled Pineapple Slices: Enhance the tropical flavor by grilling pineapple slices as a sweet side.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the warm stir-fry.
5. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, quinoa salad can be tossed with veggies for added texture.
6. Garlic Noodles: These flavorful noodles make for a hearty accompaniment that complements the stir-fry beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using too much oil: Adding excessive oil can make the dish greasy. Use just 2 teaspoons of olive oil as specified for the right balance.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Sear until nearly cooked through, then add other ingredients.
• Ignoring ingredient sizes: Cutting vegetables or chicken unevenly affects cooking times and texture. Aim for uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
• Skipping the cornstarch slurry: Failing to thicken the sauce can result in a watery dish. Make sure to mix cornstarch with water and add it gradually to achieve desired consistency.
• Not letting flavors meld: Rushing through the simmering step can diminish flavor depth. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

• Use a freezer-safe container for longer storage.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe unique?

This recipe combines tender chicken with sweet pineapple and vibrant bell peppers, creating a beautiful balance of savory and sweet flavors that is true to Hawaiian cuisine.

Can I customize the vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like snap peas or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.

How do I ensure my stir-fry has enough sauce?

Make sure to follow the instructions for preparing the sauce mixture and thicken it properly with cornstarch for a flavorful finish.

What should I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or quinoa, which soak up the delicious sauce perfectly. You can also serve it over noodles.

Is this Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free alternative, ensuring everyone can enjoy it!

Final Thoughts

The Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe is not only quick and easy but also offers delightful flavors that please any palate. Its versatility means you can customize it with different veggies or adjust the spice level. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your dinner rotation!

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Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Bring the tropical flavors of Hawaii to your dinner table with this vibrant Hawaiian Chicken Stir-Fry. This quick and easy recipe harmonizes tender chicken breast, sweet pineapple, and colorful bell peppers, all tossed in a tangy homemade sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or family dinners. With its delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors, this Hawaiian-inspired stir-fry is sure to please everyone in your household.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 15 oz pineapple chunks (juice and fruit separated)
• 1 cup pineapple juice (from the can)
• ⅓ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine pineapple juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper; cook for about 8 minutes until nearly cooked through.
3. Add diced red bell pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the pineapple chunks and let them cook for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet, mix well, and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes.
6. Combine cornstarch with water to create a slurry; gradually add to the skillet while stirring until the sauce thickens to your liking.
7. Serve topped with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize your vegetables by adding snap peas or broccoli. For an extra kick, adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. To save time, marinate your chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.