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Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice

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3.5 from 76 reviews

Experience the tropics! Juicy chicken glazed in savory soy-ginger meets creamy, aromatic jasmine coconut rice. This quick 2-step weeknight meal is ready in 30 minutes.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain jasmine rice
  • 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Rice by combining the jasmine rice, coconut milk, 1/2 cup water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
  2. Step 2: While the rice cooks, cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, and minced ginger to create the Hawaiian glaze.
  3. Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides.
  4. Step 4: Pour the prepared glaze mixture over the chicken, stirring thoroughly to coat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the pineapple chunks. Cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces and thickens into a sticky glaze and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
  5. Step 5: Fluff the finished coconut rice with a fork. Spoon the warm coconut rice onto serving plates and top generously with the Hawaiian glazed chicken and pineapple mixture.

Notes

  • Keep leftovers fresh for up to 3 days by storing the coconut rice and glazed chicken in separate, airtight containers in the refrigerator.
  • To keep the coconut rice moist when reheating, add a tablespoon of water or a splash of coconut milk, cover the dish, and microwave in short 60-second bursts.
  • Brighten the rich flavors by adding a sprinkle of toasted shredded coconut and finely chopped cilantro or green onions right before serving.
  • To ensure a perfect sticky texture for the Hawaiian glaze, verify that the sauce comes to a rapid simmer after adding the brown sugar mixture, allowing it to reduce completely and stick to the chicken.
  • Author: Kelli Rivers
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American