Sweet & Savory Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice (Perfect for Meal Prep!)

If you’re looking for a dish that brings a burst of vibrant flavors to your dinner table while being totally meal prep friendly, then you need to try Sweet & Savory Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice (Perfect for Meal Prep!). This recipe masterfully combines tender, juicy grilled chicken soaked in a tangy, sweet marinade, with the creamy richness of coconut rice that elevates every bite. Fresh grilled pineapple slices add that tropical flair, tying everything together into a harmonious dance of salty, sweet, and tangy goodness. Best of all, it’s simple enough to make ahead and enjoy throughout the week without losing any of its fabulous taste.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Sweet & Savory Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice (Perfect for Meal Prep!) lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role in creating those iconic island-inspired flavors and textures. Fresh pineapple and garlic bring brightness and depth, soy sauce and brown sugar offer the perfect balance of salty and sweet, while coconut milk enriches the rice with a delightful creaminess.

• Chicken tenderloins (1 1/2 lbs): These cook quickly and stay wonderfully tender, making them perfect for this recipe.
• Fresh ripe pineapple (1/2): Adds natural sweetness and acidity that brightens the marinade and serves as a delicious garnish.
• Pineapple juice (1/4 cup): Intensifies the tropical flavor while tenderizing the chicken for juicy results.
• Soy sauce (1/4 cup): Provides a savory umami punch that balances the sweetness beautifully.
• Ketchup (3 tbsp): Adds a rich, tangy layer that complements the marinade’s flavors.
• Brown sugar (2 tbsp): Brings caramel-like sweetness and helps the chicken caramelize when grilled.
• Fresh garlic (5-6 cloves): Infuses a fragrant, pungent kick that elevates the marinade’s depth.
• Canola oil (2 tbsp): Gives the marinade a silky texture and helps in grilling without sticking.
• Honey (2 tbsp): Brushed on at the end for a sticky, glossy finish that enhances the sweet glaze.
• Basmati or jasmine rice (1 cup): Perfect aromatic rice varieties that soak up creamy coconut milk beautifully.
• Coconut milk (3/4 cup): Imparts lush, tropical creaminess to the rice, making it irresistibly tender.
• Water (3/4 cup): Necessary to perfectly cook the rice without it becoming too dense or mushy.
• Fresh parsley (1 tbsp, chopped): A fresh green touch that adds bright color and subtle herbal notes.

How to Make Sweet & Savory Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice (Perfect for Meal Prep!)

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by blending pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, fresh garlic, and canola oil in a food processor or blender. This creates a vibrant marinade bursting with layers of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors that will soak into your chicken tenderloins and make them incredibly tender.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken tenderloins into a ziplock bag and pour in the marinade. Mix it all thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Then refrigerate and let it marinate for at least 1 hour — although longer (up to 24 hours) only makes the flavors more intense and the chicken juicier.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Heat your grill pan, cast iron grill, or non-stick skillet and cook the marinated chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Be sure to flip the chicken halfway through cooking for an even sear. When done, brush honey over both sides for that irresistible glossy glaze that’s both sweet and sticky.

Step 4: Grill the Pineapple Slices

Slice your fresh pineapple into half-inch to one-inch thick pieces and grill them until caramelized and slightly charred on both sides. This adds a smoky sweetness that perfectly complements the chicken’s savory notes.

Step 5: Cook the Coconut Rice

On your stovetop, combine rice, coconut milk, and water in a pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low, cover tightly, and let it cook undisturbed for about 17-20 minutes until the rice is tender and infused with creamy coconut flavor. Alternatively, use a rice cooker with equal parts coconut milk and water for similar results.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Place a generous scoop of the fragrant coconut rice on your plate, top with the succulent grilled Hawaiian chicken and pineapple slices, then sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and brightness. Now get ready to enjoy a taste of the islands any day of the week!

How to Serve Sweet & Savory Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice (Perfect for Meal Prep!)

Garnishes

Enhance your dish by adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or even some toasted sesame seeds to bring a bit of crunch and visual appeal. Thin slices of green onions or a drizzle of sriracha mayo make fantastic options for a little extra zing and creaminess.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, consider pairing this dish with a light cucumber salad or a crisp mango slaw. These sides add contrasting textures and refreshing acidity that balance the richness of the chicken and rice. Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans work beautifully as well.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken and rice in a hollowed-out pineapple bowl for a stunning tropical presentation that will impress your family and guests. You can also layer the components in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches, perfect for those busy days when you want flavorful food without fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Sweet & Savory Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice (Perfect for Meal Prep!) is excellent for leftovers! Store cooked chicken, grilled pineapple, and coconut rice separately in airtight containers to maintain their textures. Refrigerate and enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

If you want to keep this delightful meal longer, freeze the chicken and rice separately in freezer-safe containers or bags. Grilled pineapple can be frozen too, but it may soften slightly upon thawing. This way, you can have homemade Hawaiian flavors ready anytime you want.

Reheating

Reheat the coconut rice gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water or coconut milk to keep it moist and fluffy. Warm the chicken and pineapple slices in a skillet over medium heat to restore their lovely char and caramelized glaze. Avoid overheating to prevent dryness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well but may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they remain juicy and reach a safe internal temperature. Consider pounding them to even thickness for quick, even grilling.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for a full hour?

While 1 hour is ideal to let the flavors penetrate deeply, you can marinate for as little as 30 minutes if pressed for time. The longer the marinade, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be, so overnight marinating is even better if you plan ahead.

Can I make the coconut rice vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! This recipe is already dairy-free as it uses coconut milk for creaminess. Just make sure your soy sauce is vegan-friendly if you’re strictly avoiding animal products, and you’re good to go.

What can I substitute if I don’t have pineapple juice?

You can use fresh orange juice or a mix of water and a little honey as substitutes, but pineapple juice offers that essential tropical sweetness and acidity that defines the dish. Fresh pineapple chunks blended until juicy also work wonderfully.

How long does this dish keep well for meal prep?

When stored properly in airtight containers in the refrigerator, this dish stays delicious for up to 4 days, making it perfect for packing lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Seriously, you can’t go wrong with Sweet & Savory Hawaiian Chicken with Coconut Rice (Perfect for Meal Prep!). It’s a feast of contrasting yet harmonious flavors that feel like a mini tropical vacation on your plate. Whether you’re cooking for family dinners or prepping meals ahead for a busy week, this recipe delivers amazing taste with ease and versatility. Give it a try and let the island vibes fill your kitchen — your taste buds will thank you!

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