Don Ho Chicken

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Hawaiian

Don Ho Chicken offers a sweet and savory blend of pineapple, soy sauce, and brown sugar, grilled to perfection—ideal for those craving flavorful, easy-to-make chicken dishes.

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Ingredients

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon powdered sugar
  • 1 clove garlic, chopped
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Place chicken breasts in a large Ziploc bag.
  2. Combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, powdered sugar, and chopped garlic; pour over chicken.
  3. Seal the bag and marinate in refrigerator up to 24 hours, turning occasionally.
  4. Preheat grill to medium heat.
  5. Remove chicken from marinade and grill until cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of ginger or a teaspoon of sesame oil to the marinade. If you don't have brown sugar, white sugar can work in a pinch, though the flavor will be slightly less rich. Make sure to let the chicken marinate for at least a few hours for the best results. For a delightful side, try pairing it with Lemon-Sage Broth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Don Ho Chicken with a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Grilled vegetables also make a great accompaniment. For a tropical twist, consider adding fresh pineapple slices on the side or a drizzle of the leftover marinade, cooked down to a syrupy consistency. This dish pairs beautifully with South American Chicken And Rice.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Don Ho Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Microwave in short bursts, checking frequently, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Don Ho Chicken contains roughly 387 calories, with 22g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1178mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).

387 kcal 19% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 22g 44% DV
Total Fat 17.3g 22% DV
Carbs 36.2g 13% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 34.4g 69% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1177.9mg 51% DV
Potassium 312.1mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 72.1mg 24% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 146.9mcg 16% DV
Vitamin C 0.4mg
Vitamin D 0.4mcg 2% DV
Calcium 28.5mg 2% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit High-protein Under 400 cal
Contains Soy

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 chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used in this recipe. They are more forgiving when it comes to cooking time and will remain juicy and flavorful. Just ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

For a vegetarian alternative, consider using tofu or tempeh marinated in the same sauce. They absorb flavors well and can be grilled similarly. You can also try using portobello mushrooms for a hearty option.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, while brown sugar provides a unique flavor, you can substitute it with coconut sugar or regular granulated sugar. Keep in mind that the taste might differ slightly, but the overall dish will still be delicious.

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).

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