Are you craving a delicious, easy-to-make dinner that transports you to a tropical paradise? Look no further! This Malibu Chicken recipe is a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. The sweet and savory combination of pineapple, coconut, and chicken is simply irresistible, and the vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well. Get ready to experience a taste of the islands in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup Malibu rum (optional, can substitute with pineapple juice for a non-alcoholic version)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or quinoa (for serving)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare your ingredients. Cut the chicken into cubes, drain the pineapple if using canned, and measure out all your spices and liquids. Having everything ready will make the cooking process much smoother.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
Create the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Malibu rum (or pineapple juice), soy sauce, honey, lime juice, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Simmer:
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Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Add the pineapple chunks and shredded coconut. Stir to combine everything evenly.
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Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together. The sauce should coat the chicken nicely.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Malibu Chicken immediately over cooked rice or quinoa. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
Cooking Tips for the Best Malibu Chicken:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey. Conversely, add more if you like it sweeter.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli to make this a complete and healthy meal.
- Make it spicier: For those who love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Variations:
- Sheet Pan Malibu Chicken: Roast the chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan for an easier cleanup.
- Slow Cooker Malibu Chicken: Simmer the chicken and sauce in a slow cooker for a hands-off cooking method.
- Grilled Malibu Chicken: Grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for a precise analysis based on your exact recipe ingredients.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Malibu Chicken recipe is a perfect example of how easy and delicious healthy meals can be. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this taste of paradise!