Hawaiian Chicken Skillet Recipe for a Taste of the Tropics

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

3. Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Add the Pineapple: Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the pineapple to caramelize slightly.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

5. Create the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in the cornstarch slurry at this stage.
6. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir to coat everything evenly in the sauce.

Step 4: Simmer and Serve

7. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve your Hawaiian Chicken Skillet over steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Hawaiian Chicken Skillet

• Chicken Thighs for Juiciness: While chicken breasts are lean, chicken thighs add extra juiciness to the dish. Feel free to use whichever you prefer.
• Fresh or Canned Pineapple: Fresh pineapple brings a bright, natural sweetness, but canned pineapple works just as well. If using canned, make sure to drain it properly.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you like it sweeter, feel free to add a bit more brown sugar or pineapple juice. For a tangier kick, increase the apple cider vinegar.

Why This Recipe Works

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this Hawaiian Chicken Skillet is ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash make this dish even more appealing!
• Tropical Flavor: The combination of pineapple, soy sauce, and brown sugar gives this dish its signature sweet and savory balance.

Conclusion

The Hawaiian Chicken Skillet is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the sunny, tropical vibes of the islands to your kitchen. Perfectly cooked chicken, caramelized pineapple, and a tangy-sweet sauce make this meal an instant favorite. Serve it over rice or enjoy it as is—it’s guaranteed to make your taste buds sing with tropical joy!