Ever had one of those days where you're just dreaming of sunshine, beaches, and a laid-back luau? Me too! That's why I created this Hawaiian Luau Fried Chicken recipe – a little taste of the islands right in your kitchen. Its sweet, savory, and oh-so-crispy! I remember when my family an I would all gather around during summer time and feast. I'm craving those days again, and maybe you are too. This recipe isn't your average fried chicken; it's a flavor explosion with a tropical twist, perfect for bringing a touch of paradise to any meal. It's a flavor trip you won't want to miss!
The secret? It all starts with a luscious buttermilk marinade infused with soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and a hint of pineapple juice. I know it sounds like a wild combination, but trust me, it works! This marinade tenderizes the chicken while imparting a deep, complex flavor that's both savory and sweet. The crispy coating is a blend of flour, cornstarch, and a medley of spices, giving it that perfect crunch with every bite. You can add a few dashes of your favourite hot sauce, if you are feeling a little wild. Its time to be happy, and maybe try something new!
But wait, there's more! To take this fried chicken to the next level, we top it off with a vibrant pineapple salsa. The combination of diced pineapple, red onion, jalapeño (for a little kick), cilantro, and lime juice creates a refreshing burst of flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the chicken. It's like a party in your mouth! Believe me, my taste buds are having a dance party right now. You will be enjoying this delicious chicken so much, you will forget about what you were worrying about earlier. So lets focus on the good food in front of us!
Required Equipments
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Deep Fryer or Large Pot
- Tongs
- Wire Rack
- Paper Towels
Hawaiian Luau Fried Chicken: Frequently Asked Questions
Hawaiian Luau Fried Chicken
Bring the taste of the islands to your table with Hawaiian Luau Fried Chicken! Crispy, savory, and topped with a refreshing pineapple salsa, this recipe is a tropical delight.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 3 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- First, prepare the marinade. In a big bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and a splash of pineapple juice. This ain't just a marinade; it's a tropical bath for your chicken, infusing it with luau vibes.
- Submerge the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring they're fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer, the better – like letting your worries drift away on a Hawaiian breeze.
- When you're ready to fry, prepare the dry dredge. In another large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if you dare!). Mix well with a whisk to ensure even distribution of spices – we want every bite to be a flavor explosion!
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat every nook and cranny. For an extra crispy crust, repeat the dredging process – double the fun, double the crunch!
- Heat your oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 325°F (160°C). If using a pot, make sure it's deep enough to fully submerge the chicken. A thermometer is your best friend here, ensuring the oil is at the right temperature for perfect frying.
- Carefully lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry in batches, about 3-4 pieces at a time, for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the fried chicken from the oil using tongs and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps keep the chicken crispy and prevents it from getting soggy. Nobody likes soggy chicken!
- While the chicken is frying, prepare the pineapple salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Toss gently to combine all the flavors. This salsa is like a mini-luau in your mouth!
- Once the fried chicken is ready, serve it immediately with a generous dollop of pineapple salsa on top. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a few extra pineapple chunks for a pop of color. Each bite is a delightful fusion of crispy, savory, and sweet – a true taste of the islands!
- Don't for get to share some with your friends and family! It's a crowd pleaser.
📝 Notes
- For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the chili powder and cayenne pepper.
- Double-dredge the chicken for an extra crispy crust.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 30 g
Fat: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 2 g
Calcium: 80 mg
