Go Back
Molokai chicken served with rice and pineapple in Hawaiian-style sauce on a plate
Vicky Sharma

Hawaiian Bros Molokai Chicken Recipe (Copycat with the Real Island Flavor)

Molokai chicken recipe is a Hawaiian-inspired dish made with juicy chicken in a sweet and savory marinade. It’s easy to cook and delivers a rich, caramelized flavor, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marinate Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Hawaiian-Inspired
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

For Chicken:
  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon oil
For Marinade:
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Garlic press (optional)
  • Grater (for ginger)
  • Zip-top bag or marinating container
  • Grill (for grilling method)
  • Oven (for baking method)
  • Skillet or frying pan (for stovetop method)
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer (to check 165°F internal temp)
  • Basting brush (optional, for glaze)

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, ginger, ketchup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper until well combined.
    mixing marinade for Molokai chicken recipe
Step 2:
  1. Place the chicken in a bowl or zip-top bag, then pour the marinade over it. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavour.
    chicken marinating in sauce for molokai chicken
Step 3:
  1. Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off.
Cooking Methods
    Step 4 (Grill Method):
    1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until nicely charred.
      grilled molokai chicken with char marks
    Step 5 (Oven Method):
    1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes. Broil for 3–5 minutes for a caramelized glaze.
      molokai chicken baking in oven
    Step 6 (Stovetop Method):
    1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6–8 minutes per side. Add marinade and cook until it thickens into a glaze.
    Step 7:
    1. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
      checking chicken temperature 165 degrees
    Step 8:
    1. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
      Molokai chicken resting before serving

    Video

    Notes

    • Use chicken thighs for juicier results.
    • Marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
    • Do not reuse marinade unless boiled first for safety.
    • Medium heat prevents burning while cooking evenly.
    Serving Suggestions:
    • Serve with steamed white rice or jasmine rice
    • Pair with grilled pineapple
    • Add a fresh cabbage slaw or veggies
    Storage
    • Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3–4 days
    • Freeze up to 2 months
    • Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave
    •