Hawaiian Turned Chicken Stack
Hawaiian Turned Chicken Stack offers a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the islands. This recipe features succulent grilled chicken thighs bathed in a tropical marinade, topped with fresh vegetables and served on soft hamburger buns. Perfect for summer cookouts or any weeknight dinner, this dish promises a tropical twist that the whole family will love.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 1 hour (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 14 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 310
- Protein: 24 grams
- Carbohydrates: 36 grams
- Fat: 10 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 10 grams
- Sodium: 900 mg
Why Make This Hawaiian Turned Chicken Stack
This Hawaiian Turned Chicken Stack is not just any ordinary chicken dish; it’s a celebration of flavors. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice creates a sweet yet tangy marinade that infuses the chicken with moisture and zest. Finally, the fresh toppings add a crunchy, refreshing bite that contrasts beautifully with the grilled chicken. It’s an ideal meal for lazy summer days, yet simple enough for an easy weeknight dinner.
How to Make Hawaiian Turned Chicken Stack
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, onion, for stacking
Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger to create a marinade.
### Step 2: Marinating
Marinate the chicken thighs in the mixture for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate and the chicken to become tender.
### Step 3: Cooking
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. The chicken should achieve a nice char and be utterly juicy.
### Step 4: Finishing
Toast the hamburger buns on the grill for a minute to achieve a warm and crispy texture. Assemble the stack by placing the grilled chicken on the bottom bun, followed by lettuce, tomato, and onion. Top with the other bun and serve.
How to Serve Hawaiian Turned Chicken Stack
Serve your Hawaiian Turned Chicken Stack with a side of crispy potato wedges or a fresh green salad. For added flair, consider pairing it with a refreshing coconut drink or a chilled fruit salad. This dish is also fantastic for backyard barbecues or family gatherings.
How to Store Hawaiian Turned Chicken Stack
If you have leftovers, store the assembled stacks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the best results, keep the ingredients separate until you are ready to serve again to prevent sogginess. You can also freeze the marinated chicken thighs for up to 3 months—just thaw and cook as directed when you’re ready to enjoy!
Expert Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Turned Chicken Stack
- Marinate Longer: For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs overnight.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance the overall taste, so opt for the freshest lettuce, tomatoes, and onions you can find.
- Grill Marks: For appetizing grill marks, avoid moving the chicken too much on the grill—let it sit until it naturally releases.
Delicious Variations
- Substitute Protein: Try using boneless chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Spice it Up: Add some diced jalapeños to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Add Pineapple Slices: Grill pineapple slices alongside your chicken for an extra tropical flare.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast is a great alternative! Just be careful not to overcook it. -
How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. -
What can I use instead of hamburger buns?
You can use whole wheat buns, lettuce wraps, or even tortillas for a lighter option. -
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?
Absolutely! Bake the marinated chicken thighs in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through. -
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The chicken can be cooked in advance and stored in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.
Conclusion
The Hawaiian Turned Chicken Stack is not just a meal; it’s a vibrant experience that bursts with flavor. With its combination of juicy marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and warm buns, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or having a cozy night in, give this delightful recipe a try and bring a taste of the tropics to your table. Enjoy the colorful flavors and happy cooking!
Print
Hawaiian Turned Chicken Stack
- Total Time: 74 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors featuring grilled chicken thighs in a tropical marinade, topped with fresh vegetables on soft hamburger buns.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, and onion for stacking
Instructions
- Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger to create a marinade.
- Marinate the chicken thighs in the mixture for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side.
- Toast the hamburger buns on the grill for a minute, then assemble the stack with grilled chicken and fresh vegetables.
Notes
For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs overnight. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
