Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken Stack

why make this recipe

Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken Stack combines vibrant flavors and a tropical twist to create a delightful meal. The dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The balance of sweet pineapple, savory teriyaki, and tender chicken promises a satisfying experience that transports you straight to the islands. Plus, it’s a fun, eye-catching presentation with layers that make serving a breeze!

how to make Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken Stack

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (organic or air-chilled preferred)
• ½ cup low-sodium teriyaki sauce
• ⅓ cup pure pineapple juice (no sugar added)
• ¼ cup low-sodium or naturally brewed soy sauce
• 3 tbsp dark brown sugar
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 4 fresh pineapple rings
• Cooked white rice (for stacking)
• 2 tbsp sliced green onions (for garnish)
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal it, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, marinate overnight.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (but keep the marinade). Grill each side for 6–7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
4. Grill the Pineapple: Add the pineapple rings to the grill. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until caramelized.
5. Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan, bring the reserved marinade to a boil. Cook for about 5–6 minutes until it thickens into a glossy sauce.
6. Assemble the Stack: Spoon rice onto a plate, layer with grilled chicken, and top with a grilled pineapple ring. Drizzle with the thickened glaze. Finish by garnishing with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

how to serve Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken Stack

Serve the Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken Stack warm, straight from the grill. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite sides, like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. The layers of rice, chicken, and pineapple make for a visually appealing presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.

how to store Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken Stack

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. While the rice may lose some texture, the flavors will still be delicious.

tips to make Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken Stack

• For deeper flavors, marinate the chicken overnight.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
• Feel free to customize the glaze by adding spicy chili flakes for a kick.

variation

You can switch out the chicken for tofu or shrimp to make a vegetarian or seafood version of this dish. Also, try using different fruits, such as peaches or mango, instead of pineapple for a different flavor profile!

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, but ensure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking for even flavor distribution.

Q: Can I cook the chicken in the oven instead of grilling?
A: Absolutely! Bake the marinated chicken at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have teriyaki sauce?
A: You can make your own teriyaki sauce by mixing soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger, or substitute it with a combination of soy sauce and a bit of brown sugar for sweetness.

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