why make this recipe

Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken is a delicious way to enjoy a tropical twist on your dinner. This dish combines the sweet and savory flavors of pineapple and teriyaki sauce, making it a perfect option for family meals or summer barbecues. The marinade infuses the chicken with great taste, while the grilled pineapple adds a beautiful touch to your plate. It’s also simple to make, allowing you to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

how to make Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup pineapple juice
1 cup teriyaki sauce
1 ripe pineapple, cut into circles
4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Chopped green onions
Toasted sesame seeds

Directions:

In a bowl, mix together sesame oil, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, and teriyaki sauce to create the marinade.
Place chicken in a resealable plastic bag or container and pour the marinade over it. Seal and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Remove chicken from marinade and grill for about 7-10 minutes on each side, until cooked through.
During the last few minutes of grilling, add pineapple slices to the grill and cook until caramelized.
Serve the grilled chicken garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, alongside the grilled pineapple slices.

how to serve Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken

Serve this dish hot off the grill, with the grilled chicken and pineapple arranged on a platter. You can place extra chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top for a colorful and tasty presentation. This dish pairs well with rice or a fresh green salad, making it a complete meal.

how to store Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken

If you have leftovers, store the grilled chicken and pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep for about 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the grill before serving again. You can also freeze the chicken if you want to store it longer.

tips to make Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F until cooked through.
Feel free to add other veggies to the grill, like bell peppers or zucchini, for extra flavor and nutrition.

variation

You can swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the protein you choose. You can also try adding different fruits or spices in the marinade for unique flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts will work just fine. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill it. Just remember to not marinate it for more than 24 hours for the best texture.