One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice

This One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice is a delightful dish that brings tropical flavors to your dinner table. With tender chicken thighs marinated in a sweet pineapple blend and cooked alongside fluffy coconut rice, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Its simplicity and rich, vibrant flavors make it a standout choice for family meals or gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This one pot meal allows you to cook everything in a single pan, minimizing cleanup.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of coconut aminos and pineapple juice creates a tangy and sweet flavor profile that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just about 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy nights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever veggies you have on hand to customize this dish to your taste.
• Impressive Presentation: Garnish with cilantro, toasted coconut, or cashews for a beautiful finish that impresses guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential kitchen tools before starting.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Deep sauté pan
• Measuring cups
• Liquid measuring cup
• Wooden spoon
• Mixing bowl

Why These Tools Matter

• Deep sauté pan: Provides enough space for browning the chicken and cooking the rice without spilling.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient portions for consistent results every time.
• Liquid measuring cup: Perfect for combining liquids without mess.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for scraping up brown bits from the pan to enhance flavor.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

• 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)

For the Chicken and Rice

• 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: Marinate the Chicken

• Strain the pineapple chunks from the pineapple juice and store them in an airtight container until ready to use.
• Measure out 1/4 cup of the pineapple juice and combine it with the other marinade ingredients in a resealable bag.
• Add the chicken thighs to the marinade bag, seal it, and toss well to coat. Marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour; longer if possible.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a deep sauté pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
• Remove chicken from marinade (discard remaining marinade) and sear for 3–4 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
• Transfer chicken to a plate; it doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.

Step 3: Prepare Coconut Rice Mixture

• In a large liquid measuring cup, combine reserved pineapple juice with canned coconut milk until you reach 3 cups of liquid total.
• Pour this mixture into the same skillet used for cooking chicken, scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon.
• Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Cook Rice

• Add uncooked jasmine rice and reserved pineapple chunks into the simmering liquid mixture. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Simmer

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

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Top with chopped cashews, toasted coconut, or fresh cilantro as desired before serving hot.

This recipe serves six people, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep! Enjoy your deliciously comforting One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice!

How to Serve One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice

Serving One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice is simple and allows for plenty of creative touches. This dish is vibrant and flavorful, making it perfect for both casual family dinners and festive gatherings.

Garnish Ideas

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor that complements the tropical taste.
• Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle some toasted coconut on top for added texture and sweetness.
• Chopped Cashews: These provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Accompaniments

• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the dish.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado pairs well with the chicken and rice, adding richness.
• Fresh Pineapple Slices: For a refreshing side, serve some pineapple slices that echo the dish’s flavors.

Serving Style

• Family Style: Place the entire pot on the table for everyone to serve themselves, creating a warm atmosphere.
• Individual Bowls: Portion out servings in bowls for a more formal presentation.

How to Perfect One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice

Perfecting this recipe can elevate your cooking experience. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Bold Marinade: Marinate the chicken longer for deeper flavor; overnight is ideal.
• Even Cooking: Use chicken thighs of similar size to ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Scrape Pan Bits: Don’t skip scraping the brown bits from the pan; they add rich flavor to the rice.
• Check Rice Doneness: If rice isn’t fluffy after simmering, add a splash of water and cover to cook longer.
• Temperature Check: Always check that chicken reaches 165°F internally for safety.
• Flavor Balance: Adjust salt or honey based on your taste preference; you want sweet and savory notes.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice

Pairing sides with One Pot Hawaiian Chicken can enhance your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers and zucchini add color and balance.
2. Cucumber Salad: A light salad with cucumbers, lime juice, and mint offers freshness.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides a nutritious contrast to the rich dish.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw can bring a refreshing crunch alongside your meal.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness that pairs well with chicken.
6. Fruit Salad: A tropical fruit salad can enhance the Hawaiian theme while being light and refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice, it’s easy to make some common errors. Avoid these pitfalls for a delicious meal.

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating the chicken enhances its flavor. Aim for at least an hour but let it sit overnight for the best results.
• Skipping the browning step: Searing the chicken creates a crispy texture and adds depth to the dish. Don’t skip this crucial step; it makes a big difference.
• Using insufficient liquid: The right amount of liquid is vital for cooking the rice properly. Always measure your coconut milk and pineapple juice carefully.
• Overcooking the rice: Follow the cooking time closely. Overcooked rice can become mushy and ruin your dish’s texture.
• Neglecting garnishes: Garnishes like chopped cashews or cilantro add flavor and visual appeal. Don’t skip them; they elevate the final presentation.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool before sealing it in the container.

Freezing One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Label and date your container to keep track.

Reheating One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk or water if needed to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice?

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

Can I use different types of rice?

Yes, you can substitute jasmine rice with long-grain white rice or basmati rice for similar results.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to increase nutrition and flavor. You can also adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences.

What should I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with fresh salads or steamed vegetables for a complete meal experience.

Is One Pot Hawaiian Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prepping as it stores well in the refrigerator and freezer, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Conclusion

One Pot Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a tropical dinner that will satisfy everyone!

---