Molokai Chicken Recipe

Molokai chicken served with rice and grilled pineapple.

Molokai Chicken is a flavorful Hawaiian-inspired chicken dish made with tender chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and savory blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and spices. The chicken is grilled or pan-seared until beautifully caramelized, creating a juicy and delicious meal perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or meal prep.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Marinating Time: 4 hours (or overnight for best flavor) 4

Total Time 4 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Hawaiian, Tropical

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 pounds Boneless chicken thighs
½ cup Soy sauce
½ cup Pineapple juice
⅓ cup Brown sugar
¼ cup Honey
3 cloves Garlic (minced)
1 tsp Fresh ginger (grated)
1 tsp Paprika
½ tsp Black pepper
2 tbsps Ketchup
1 tbsp Cooking oil

Optional Garnish

Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds
Lime wedges
Fresh pineapple slices

Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Resealable bag or container for marinating
Grill, grill pan, or skillet
Tongs
Meat thermometer

Method

Prepare the Chicken
Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs. Rinse them lightly under cold water and pat them completely dry using paper towels.
Dry chicken helps the marinade stick better and ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
Soy sauce
Pineapple juice
Brown sugar
Honey
Minced garlic
Grated ginger
Paprika
Black pepper
Ketchup
Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves and the marinade becomes smooth.
This marinade provides the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tropical flavor.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is fully coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. For the best flavor, marinate overnight.
Longer marinating allows the chicken to absorb the sweet and savory island flavors.
Step 4: Preheat the Cooking Surface
Heat a grill, grill pan, or large skillet over medium heat.
Lightly brush the surface with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
If using an outdoor grill, preheat it to about 375°F (190°C).
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess liquid.
Place the chicken on the grill or skillet and cook for 6–8 minutes per side.
During cooking, the sugars from the marinade will caramelize and create a beautiful golden glaze.
Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Rest the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and garnish with:
Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds
Fresh pineapple slices
Serve warm with rice or your favorite sides.
Serving Suggestions
Molokai Chicken pairs perfectly with many tropical or classic side dishes, including:
Steamed white rice
Hawaiian macaroni salad
Coconut rice
Grilled vegetables
Fresh pineapple slices
Asian-style cucumber salad
These sides create a complete Hawaiian-inspired plate lunch experience.

Notes