As the evening light begins to dim and the soft hum of daily life fades, there’s a familiar tug at my heartstrings—the craving for something deeply satisfying yet simple to prepare. That’s when I turn to my beloved recipe for Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken. Imagine the mouthwatering aroma of freshly minced garlic mingling with soy sauce and a hint of sweetness wafting through the kitchen. It’s not just food; it’s a ticket to a cozy dinner that warms the soul.
Perfectly seasoned, tender chicken thighs are dredged to a mesmerizing golden-brown crisp, and the magic truly happens when they meet a luscious garlic sauce, balanced by a touch of sugar and the heat from jalapeños. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend, this dish ticks all the boxes: it’s easy to make, absolutely delicious, and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share a plate. So let’s dive in and awaken those taste buds with a delightful twist on a classic favorite!
Why will you love Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe requires only a few ingredients and minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for home cooks of all levels.
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of garlic, soy sauce, and sugar creates a unique savory-sweet sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress with its crispy exterior and tender meat.
Versatile Meal Option: Serve it as a main dish or slice it up for a zesty addition to salads and sandwiches.
Quick Cooking Time: You’ll have a delicious homemade meal ready in no time, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something special yet easy.
Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken thighs – 1 1/2 pounds, boneless and skinless; ideal for crispiness and flavor.
• Kosher salt – 1/2 teaspoon, enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
• Coarse ground black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon, adds a subtle kick to the dish.
• Flour – 1/2 cup, creates a deliciously crispy coating.
• Cornstarch – 1/4 cup, helps achieve that irresistible crunch.
• Oil for frying – enough to cover the bottom of the pan; choose a high smoke point oil for best results.
For the Garlic Sauce
• Soy sauce – 1/4 cup, brings in the classic savory element that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
• Sugar – 1/4 cup, balances the salty soy sauce with a hint of sweetness.
• Water – 3 tablespoons, creates a perfect sauce consistency.
• Ground ginger – 1/2 teaspoon, adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• Garlic – 2 tablespoons, minced; the star ingredient that transforms this dish into a fragrant masterpiece.
Optional Add-in
• Jalapeno – 1 sliced, if desired for a spicy kick that complements the garlic sauce.
Prepare yourself to savor every bite of this Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken that promises to be a favorite in your home!
How to Make Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken
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Season the chicken thighs with kosher salt, coarse black pepper, and ground ginger, ensuring they’re evenly coated for enhanced flavor. Let them marinate for a few minutes—this adds depth as they soak up the seasoning.
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Dredge the chicken in a mixture of flour and cornstarch. This combination is key to achieving that mouthwatering crispy exterior. Make sure each piece is fully coated, tapping off any excess to prevent clumping.
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Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. This indicates it’s hot enough to fry the chicken, which helps lock in moisture and create the perfect crispy texture.
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Fry the chicken thighs for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The sizzling sound means that delicious crispiness is happening!
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Mix soy sauce, sugar, and water in a separate bowl. This will be your sauce that will bring all those flavors together. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved completely.
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Add sliced jalapeno (if using) to the sauce mixture. This optional step adds a spicy kick that beautifully complements the savory-sweet profile of the dish.
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Pour the sauce over the fried chicken and let it simmer for a few minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb the wonderful flavors of the sauce, making every bite irresistible.
Optional: Serve with steamed rice for a perfect meal pairing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken
Season Generously: Ensure you apply kosher salt and spices evenly to the chicken thighs before dredging. This enhances the overall flavor and prevents bland bites.
Perfect Coating: When dredging in flour and cornstarch, ensure even coverage. A light shake helps remove excess, preventing a gummy texture during frying.
Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. A shimmering surface indicates it’s ready. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb oil instead of crisping up.
Simmer for Flavor: After pouring the sauce over the chicken, simmer just long enough for the flavors to meld. Avoid overcooking, which can lead to sogginess.
Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve your Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken right after cooking. It’s best enjoyed fresh and crispy!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it will make the chicken soggy.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken thighs and dredge them in the flour and cornstarch mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to keep the flavors fresh. Additionally, the garlic sauce can be mixed and refrigerated for up to 3 days before serving, ensuring that every bite bursts with flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat oil and fry the chicken straight from the fridge until golden and crispy, then pour on the chilled sauce and simmer until warmed through. This method not only saves you time but ensures your meal is just as delicious!
Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken
Let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful dish with some delicious twists!
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Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour and cornstarch for a gluten-free blend or almond flour for a crispy texture.
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Spicy Garlic Chicken: Add more sliced jalapenos or a dash of Sriracha to the garlic sauce for an extra kick. The heat complements the sweetness perfectly, elevating the overall flavor.
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Honey Garlic Chicken: Replace sugar with honey for a natural sweetness and a richer glaze that clings to the chicken beautifully. This creates a lovely finish, enhancing the dish’s overall gourmet feel.
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Citrus Twist: Incorporate zest from a lime or orange into your sauce for a fresh and vibrant flavor profile. It brightens up the dish and brings a zesty kick that’s simply refreshing.
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Herbes de Provence: Mix in herbs like thyme or rosemary with your chicken seasoning for an aromatic twist. This will infuse your chicken with rustic flavors, making it feel like a sophisticated meal.
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Coconut Milk Sauce: For a tropical flair, substitute half of the water in your sauce with coconut milk. This will add a creamy richness that pairs wonderfully with garlic.
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Vegetable Crunch: Toss in diced bell peppers or snap peas into the frying pan alongside the chicken for added texture and nutrition. They offer a lovely crunch and balance the meal wonderfully.
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Baked Option: For a healthier approach, bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes. This method achieves a crispy exterior without frying.
With these variations, your Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken can be a new experience every time!
What to Serve with Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken?
As you savor every bite of this delectable dish, it’s time to think about the perfect accompaniments that will elevate your meal experience.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the delightful sauce, providing a neutral base that perfectly balances the flavors.
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Garlic Butter Broccoli: This dish adds a crunchy, vibrant contrast with fresh garlic that harmonizes beautifully with the chicken’s aromatic sauce.
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Crispy Coleslaw: A tangy and refreshing side that introduces a nice crunch, offering a playful texture against the tender chicken.
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Pineapple Fried Rice: Bring a tropical flair! The sweet notes in the rice complement the savory chicken while adding a burst of flavor.
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Spicy Pickled Cucumbers: Bright and tangy, these add a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness of the crispy chicken.
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Mango Salad: This sweet and citrusy salad introduces a delightful freshness, enhancing the overall flavor palette of the meal.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: A side dip that adds a sweet kick, perfect for those who love a little extra heat alongside their chicken.
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Lemonade: This refreshing drink’s zestiness pairs wonderfully, cleansing the palate beautifully between bites of crispy goodness.
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Chocolate Pudding Cups: End your meal on a sweet note; a rich and creamy dessert that’s a comforting finish after a savory feast.
Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken thighs?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken thighs, look for ones that are firm to the touch with a pink hue and minimal dark spots. The skin should be intact for better flavor. I often prefer thighs that are closer to the bone for extra juiciness!
How should I store leftover Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken?
For best results, store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy it within 3 days. When you’re ready to savor those tasty leftovers, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat; this keeps them crispy while ensuring they heat evenly.
Can I freeze Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken?
Yes! To freeze, first, lay the chicken out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer the pieces to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the bag with the date!
What’s the best way to reheat the chicken for maximum crispiness?
To reheat and maintain that delicious crispiness, I recommend using your oven. Preheat it to 375°F and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This method will help avoid sogginess that often comes with microwaving.
Are there any common issues I should watch out for when making this dish?
Very! One common issue is using oil that’s not hot enough, which leads to soggy chicken. Ensure the oil shimmers before adding the chicken. Also, if your chicken ends up a bit soggy after adding the sauce, you might have simmered it too long. Just a couple of minutes will infuse flavor without losing that perfect crisp!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Switch out the soy sauce for a gluten-free version and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch for dredging. This way, everyone can enjoy that delightful Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken without worry!
Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Chicken You’ll Crave Every Week
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken thighs with kosher salt, coarse black pepper, and ground ginger, ensuring they’re evenly coated for enhanced flavor. Let them marinate for a few minutes.
- Dredge the chicken in a mixture of flour and cornstarch, ensuring even coverage.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry the chicken thighs for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Mix soy sauce, sugar, and water in a separate bowl and stir well.
- Add sliced jalapeno (if using) to the sauce mixture.
- Pour the sauce over the fried chicken and let it simmer for a few minutes.