Chicken-A-La Hawaiian
Chicken-A-La Hawaiian is a flavorful dish combining tender cooked chicken with a sweet and tangy pineapple glaze, accented by ginger and almonds. Perfect for a tropical-inspired meal, it pairs beautifully with rice and offers a delightful mix of savory, sweet, and nutty flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine barbecue sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, oil or butter, flour, and salt in a skillet.
- Cook the mixture until it comes to a boil and thickens slightly.
- Cut cooked chicken into small pieces.
- Place the chicken in a baking dish.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle crushed pineapple, sliced water chestnuts, and powdered ginger over the top.
- Bake in a 300°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Serve over cooked rice and sprinkle with chopped roasted almonds.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce to the barbecue mixture. If you don't have crushed pineapple, chopped fresh pineapple or even diced peaches can work well as a substitute. For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce. This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for busy weeknights, similar to Busy Day Chicken And Rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken-A-La Hawaiian over a bed of fluffy cooked rice, allowing the savory sauce to soak in. For added crunch and flavor, sprinkle with roasted chopped almonds just before serving. This dish pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also makes a delightful dish for gatherings or potlucks, reminiscent of popular American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken-A-La Hawaiian contains roughly 1023 calories, with 13g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1385mg per serving (60% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save you time and add extra flavor. Just shred or chop the chicken and follow the rest of the recipe as directed. It's a great shortcut that still delivers delicious results.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. For every cup of brown sugar needed, use one cup of granulated sugar and add one tablespoon of molasses. This will mimic the flavor of brown sugar in your dish.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Chicken-A-La Hawaiian in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to serve, bake it as directed. This make-ahead convenience is perfect for busy schedules.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).