Luau Chicken

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Cuisine: Hawaiian

Luau Chicken features tender chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce with hints of ginger and soy, perfect for casual gatherings and tropical-inspired meals.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 to 3 lb. chicken pieces
  • 3 Tbsp. light brown sugar
  • 2 tsp. cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. ground ginger
  • 1/8 tsp. pepper
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 3 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 2 Tbsp. soy sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Cook the sauce over moderate heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
  2. Marinate the chicken in the sauce, then baste as you broil or barbecue.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. You can substitute honey for light brown sugar if needed, and use chicken thighs or legs for juiciness. If you want extra thickness in the sauce, add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water. This dish can be complemented by adding pineapple chunks during the marinating process for a tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Luau Chicken with steamed rice or a tropical salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Country Rice With Shrimp for a flavorful combination. For a refreshing side, consider grilled vegetables or a fruit salsa. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions to enhance the presentation.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Luau Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Luau Chicken contains roughly 148 calories, with 3g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1915mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).

148 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.6g 5% DV
Total Fat 1.3g 2% DV
Carbs 32.4g 12% DV
Fiber 3.9g 14% DV
Sugar 2.8g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1915.4mg 83% DV
Potassium 391.5mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 1.4mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 11.4mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 52.8mg 59% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 32.6mg 3% DV
Iron 3.1mg 17% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
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 boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but you may need to adjust cooking times. Boneless pieces cook faster, so monitor them closely to avoid drying out. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?

If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can use soy sauce combined with a dash of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute. This will mimic the tangy flavor while still complementing the dish's overall taste.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the marinade. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. You can also serve with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for an extra kick.

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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