Chicken Waikiki Beach
Tender chicken is coated in a flavorful sweet and tangy pineapple sauce with ginger and soy, perfect for a tropical-inspired meal that pairs beautifully with rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet.
- Shake chicken pieces in flour, salt, and pepper, then brown them.
- Place browned chicken in a glass 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Drain pineapple slices, reserving syrup, and pour syrup into a 2-cup measure.
- Add water to the syrup to make 1 1/4 cups.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, pineapple juice, vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, and chicken bouillon.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove 1/2 cup of sauce and mix with cornstarch until smooth.
- Stir the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan and cook, stirring constantly, until it boils for 2 minutes.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Add pineapple slices and green pepper to the dish.
- Bake for an additional 30 minutes until the chicken is tender.
- Serve hot with rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, consider double-breading the chicken by dipping it in flour, then egg, and back into the flour before frying. If you don't have cornstarch, you can substitute with all-purpose flour, though it may slightly alter the thickness of the sauce. For a fruity twist, try adding diced bell peppers or substituting the pineapple with mango. This dish pairs well with recipes like Chicken Faribault Blue for a tropical flair.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Waikiki Beach over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For a festive touch, consider serving with a side of coconut rice or even alongside dishes like Vichyssoise(Soup) for a unique dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, but be cautious to avoid drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Waikiki Beach contains roughly 339 calories, with 6g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 562mg per serving (24% 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 boneless chicken instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken pieces for quicker cooking. Adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Boneless cuts will absorb the flavors well and remain tender, making it a convenient alternative.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for breading the chicken. Ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free as well, and your dish will accommodate gluten-free diets without compromising taste.
What can I substitute for cider vinegar?
If you don't have cider vinegar on hand, white vinegar or rice vinegar can be good substitutes, though they may alter the flavor slightly. You can also use lemon juice for a fresh tang; just adjust the amount to taste in the sauce.
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).