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Molokai Chicken Recipe

Molokai Chicken Recipe

Molokai chicken is a sweet and savory Hawaiian-inspired dish made with soy sauce, pineapple juice, garlic, and honey, creating tender, juicy chicken with a rich caramelized glaze perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 –6 bone-in chicken thighs
  • ⅓ cup soy sauce
  • ½ cup pineapple juice
  • 3 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • Garnish:
  • Green onions
  • Sesame seeds

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Zip-top bag or shallow dish (for marinating)
  • Large skillet / cast iron pan (or baking sheet / air fryer)
  • Small saucepan (for glaze)
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer
  • Cutting board & knife

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare Marinade
  1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir until sugar dissolves.
    Molokai Chicken Recipe
Step 2: Marinate Chicken
  1. Add chicken to marinade, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight best).
    Molokai Chicken Recipe
Step 3: Bring to Room Temperature
  1. Remove chicken from fridge 20–30 minutes before cooking.
    Molokai Chicken Recipe
Step 4: Make Glaze
  1. Pour leftover marinade into a saucepan
    Molokai Chicken Recipe
  2. Boil and simmer for 8–10 minutes until thick
Step 5: Cook Chicken
    Option 1: Stovetop
    1. Heat pan on medium
      Molokai Chicken Recipe
    2. Cook chicken 6–8 min each side
    3. Brush glaze in last few minutes
    Option 2: Oven
    1. Preheat to 400°F (200°C)
    2. Bake 25–30 minutes
    3. Broil 2–3 minutes for caramelization
    Option 3: Air Fryer
    1. Cook at 380°F for 18–22 minutes
    Apply glaze in last 5 minutes
      Step 6: Check Temperature
      1. Cook until internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C).
        Molokai Chicken Recipe
      Step 7: Rest & Serve
      1. Rest chicken for 5 minutes
        Molokai Chicken Recipe
      2. Garnish with green onions & sesame seeds
      3. Serve hot