One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice

This One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice is a tropical delight that brings the flavors of the islands right to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and savory pineapple mixture, all cooked together with fluffy coconut rice. The result is a comforting and vibrant meal that is sure to impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This one pot meal simplifies cooking by combining all ingredients in a single dish, saving you time on cleanup.
• Flavorful Marinade: The pineapple marinade infuses the chicken with a delicious tropical taste, elevating your dining experience.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any night of the week, this recipe works well for casual dinners or festive gatherings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and wholesome flavors, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Customizable Toppings: You can easily personalize your dish by adding garnishes like cilantro, cashews, or toasted coconut.

Tools and Preparation

To make this One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Deep sauté pan
• Measuring cups
• Liquid measuring cup
• Wooden spoon
• Plastic or reusable storage bag

Why These Tools Matter

• Deep sauté pan: Ideal for searing chicken and simmering rice simultaneously without making a mess.
• Measuring cups: Ensures precise ingredient portions for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

This Hawaiian chicken recipe is made with tender chicken thighs flavored with a tropical pineapple marinade cooked in one pot with fluffy coconut rice. This one pot dinner is great for any night of the week!

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup coconut aminos
– 1/2 cup full fat canned coconut milk (shaken)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 cup 100% pineapple juice (use the juice from the canned pineapple below)
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
– 1 (13.5 ounce) can full fat coconut milk (shaken)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pepper
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked jasmine rice (or long grain white rice)
– 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks in 100% pineapple juice
– To garnish: cilantro, chopped cashews, or toasted coconut

How to Make One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple Marinade

Strain the pineapple chunks from the pineapple juice and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to cook. Measure out 1/4 cup of the pineapple juice and mix it with the remaining marinade ingredients in a plastic storage bag. Save any leftover juice for later use.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the marinade bag. Seal it tightly and toss well to coat. Place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour; up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a deep sauté pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken (discarding excess marinade) and sear for about 3–4 minutes on one side. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until browned but not fully cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate.

Step 4: Combine Liquids

In a large liquid measuring cup, combine reserved pineapple juice with canned coconut milk to reach a total of 3 cups. If needed, add water to make up any difference.

Step 5: Cook Rice Mixture

Pour the liquid mixture into the same skillet used for searing chicken. Use a wooden spoon to scrape off any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, salt, pepper, uncooked rice, and reserved pineapple chunks.

Step 6: Add Chicken and Simmer

Place seared chicken on top of the rice mixture. Close the lid, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for about 20–25 minutes or until rice is fluffy and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

After cooking, top your dish with chopped cashews, toasted coconut, or fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your tropical feast!

How to Serve One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice

This One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and textures. Serving it can enhance its tropical appeal and make for an unforgettable meal.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits like mango, kiwi, and berries adds a refreshing contrast.
• Cucumber and Avocado Salad: This cool salad complements the warmth of the dish while providing a creamy texture.

Add Crunchy Toppings

• Chopped Cashews: Sprinkle these over the chicken for added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Toasted Coconut Flakes: These add a sweet, crunchy element that ties back to the coconut rice.

Serve with Additional Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce: Drizzle this over the chicken for an extra kick of sweetness and spice.
• Soy Sauce or Tamari: A splash of this sauce can enhance the umami flavor profile of your meal.

How to Perfect One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice

To ensure your One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

• Bold Marinade Time: Marinating the chicken for longer (up to 24 hours) allows flavors to penetrate deeply.
• Proper Searing Technique: Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding chicken; this creates a beautiful crust.
• Water Adjustment: If you find your rice is not fluffy, check the liquid ratio; adjust by adding more coconut milk or water as needed.
• Resting Period: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld and rice firm up.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip on garnishes like cilantro or toasted coconut; they enhance both flavor and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice

Pairing sides with this dish can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delicious options that complement the flavors beautifully.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Sauté green beans in garlic for a quick side that adds crunch and flavor.
3. Mango Salsa: A refreshing mango salsa provides a zesty contrast, enhancing the tropical theme of the dish.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crispness and balances out the richness of the coconut rice.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness pairs nicely with the savory elements of the chicken dish.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs adds protein and fiber while remaining light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience and the final dish.

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to less flavorful meat. Always allow enough time for the marinade to penetrate the chicken for optimal taste.
• Not Measuring Ingredients: Guessing ingredient amounts can ruin the balance of flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure accuracy in your recipe.
• Cooking Rice Incorrectly: Adding too much or too little liquid can affect rice texture. Follow the rice-to-liquid ratio closely for perfect, fluffy results.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too much chicken in the pan at once can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve a nice sear on each piece.
• Ignoring Temperature Ranges: Cooking at too high a heat can burn your ingredients. Monitor your heat levels carefully for even cooking and browning.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the dish cool completely before placing it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Freezing One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months.
• Make sure to label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil, heating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: In a saucepan over low heat, add a splash of water or broth. Stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice?

One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice is a delicious dish featuring marinated chicken thighs cooked with fluffy coconut rice and pineapple chunks, all in one pot.

Can I use other types of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs with boneless skinless chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.

How do I customize One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and color. You can also adjust spice levels by adding chili flakes.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total time for preparation and cooking is about 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option!

Conclusion

One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice is not only easy to make but also bursting with tropical flavors that everyone will love. This versatile recipe allows for customization based on personal tastes and available ingredients, making it ideal for any night of the week.

---