The aroma wafting through my kitchen instantly transports me to the sunny shores of Hawaii, where every bite of Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken is like a mini vacation. This dish brings together a delightful crunch and a sweet, sticky garlic sauce that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Within just 30 minutes, you can whip up this quick crowd-pleaser that promises to satisfy your cravings for comfort food. Garlic lovers, rejoice! The savory notes of garlic enveloping tender chicken will have you savoring each bite. What’s not to love about a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare? Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Garlic Chicken So Irresistible?
Flavor Explosion: With a rich, garlicky sauce that’s sweet and savory, this Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken is a taste sensation!
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Everyone loves crispy chicken, and this dish is guaranteed to impress friends and family alike.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with fluffy jasmine rice or sautéed veggies for a wholesome meal that’s customizable to your taste.
Aloha Spirit: Enjoy a touch of Hawaiian cuisine that brings the island vibes straight to your dinner table. Whether you’re drawn to recipes like Garlic Butter Chicken or craving something new, this dish is a winner.
Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken (2 pounds) – Main protein source, sliced into cubes. Use breast or thigh for best results.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon) – Used to tenderize chicken and enhance the sauce’s consistency.
For the Sauce
- Soy Sauce (3/4 cup) – Adds umami flavor and saltiness. Low-sodium soy sauce can be used as a substitute.
- Sugar (3/4 cup) – Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce with sweetness. Brown sugar can provide a richer taste.
- Garlic (1/2 cup, crushed) – Key flavor component; brings a bold garlic punch.
- Green Onion (1/4 cup, chopped) – Adds freshness and mild onion flavor.
- Sesame Oil (1 tablespoon) – Provides depth and nuttiness to the sauce.
- Red Chili Flakes (1 teaspoon) – Introduces heat and spice. Adjust to taste for less heat.
- White Pepper (1/2 teaspoon) – Adds mild pepper flavor without overpowering.
For the Coating
- Flour (1 1/2 cups) – Main coating for frying; provides crunch.
- Cornstarch (1/2 cup) – Used with flour for an extra crispy coating.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Enhances overall flavor.
For Frying
- Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon) – Helps to enhance the marinade.
- Additional Vegetable Oil (for frying) – Ensure a deep fry for maximum crispiness.
This Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to be savored!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken
Step 1: Make the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine 3/4 cup soy sauce and 3/4 cup sugar over medium heat. Stir the mixture, bringing it to a gentle boil for about 2-3 minutes until the sugar fully dissolves. Add 1/2 cup crushed garlic, 1/4 cup chopped green onion, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon red chili flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon white pepper, then boil for another minute. Remove the sauce from heat and set it aside to cool.
Step 2: Marinate Chicken
In a large bowl, place the 2 pounds of cubed chicken. Pour 4-5 tablespoons of the garlic sauce over the chicken, and add 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Mix thoroughly, making sure each piece of chicken is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes, or refrigerate it for deeper flavor infusion up to overnight.
Step 3: Prepare the Coating
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup cornstarch, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to create the dry coating. To this mixture, add 3 tablespoons of the prepared garlic sauce, stirring until it forms small clumps. This step ensures a flavorful and crispy coating for your Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken later on.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a wide frying pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers, reaching around 350°F (175°C). While the oil heats, take the marinated chicken and coat each piece in the dry mixture, pressing the coating to adhere properly. Fry the chicken in batches, ensuring not to crowd the pan, for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer fried pieces to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
Once all the chicken is fried, gently reheat the remaining garlic sauce if desired. Toss the crispy chicken in the warm sauce for an even coating, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Pair your Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken with fluffy jasmine rice or fried rice for a delightful complete meal that captures the essence of Hawaiian comfort food.
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken
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Perfect Temperature: Use a thermometer to check that your oil is around 350°F (175°C) before frying; this ensures a crispy texture without oil absorption.
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Marination Matters: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for deeper flavor absorption—essential for amazing Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken.
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Coating Technique: Press the flour and cornstarch mixture onto the chicken firmly to prevent it from falling off during frying; overcrowding can cause steaming rather than frying.
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Batch Frying: Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain oil temperature. This step is crucial for achieving that desired golden-brown crunch.
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Sauce Serving: If tossing the chicken in garlic sauce, do it right before serving to keep the coating crispy. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
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Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results—it helps retain that lovely crunch!
Make Ahead Options
These Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, soaking it in the flavorful garlic sauce to allow the bold flavors to infuse deeply. Additionally, prepare the dry coating mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container—this will ensure it stays fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat oil and fry the marinated chicken until golden brown and crispy. For the best results, reheat any leftover garlic sauce gently before tossing it with the fried chicken, giving you restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken
The perfect meal isn’t complete without delightful sides that enhance the flavors and textures of your main attraction.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy side absorbs the sticky garlic sauce beautifully, making every bite memorable.
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Fried Rice: A savory option that complements the crunchy chicken while adding extra vegetables and flavors for a wholesome experience.
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Hawaiian Macaroni Salad: Creamy and rich, this classic side brings a refreshing contrast to the bold, garlicky chicken.
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Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Adds a sweet and tangy element that elevates the tropical essence of the dish.
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Sautéed Broccoli: A vibrant and crunchy choice, it offers a healthy dimension, balancing the richness of the chicken.
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Coconut Rice: Subtle coconut flavor enhances your meal with a tropical touch, harmonizing with the Hawaiian vibe.
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Mango Salsa: This bright and fruity salsa brightens each bite, offering a zesty contrast to the savory chicken.
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Cold Beer: Enjoy a crisp lager or tropical ale that perfectly pairs with fried chicken, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Haupia (Coconut Pudding): Finish your meal with a smooth and creamy dessert that echoes the flavors of Hawaii, leaving you feeling satisfied.
By choosing from this array of sides, you’ll create a joyful table that showcases the spirit of indulgence and warmth found in Hawaiian cuisine!
Storage Tips for Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken
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Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken immediately after cooking. However, if left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety.
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Fridge: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing to avoid condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
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Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps restore that delicious crunch and keep the chicken moist.
Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize the dish to your taste preferences!
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Wings or Drumettes: Swap chicken cubes for wings or drumettes for a fun finger food option that’s perfect for parties. The crispy skin will soak up the flavorful sauce beautifully!
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Baked Version: For a lighter alternative, bake the chicken instead of frying. Simply place coated chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F until golden brown and crispy for a healthier touch.
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Different Sauces: Try using hoisin sauce or teriyaki as a base instead of the garlic sauce for a sweet and tangy twist, introducing new layers of flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour in the coating for those sensitive to gluten. You won’t sacrifice any crunch!
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Spicy Kick: Add more red chili flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce if you crave an extra spicy kick. This will awake your taste buds and add a surprising zing.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the garlic sauce to freshen up the dish and add a burst of garden flavor, enhancing its aromatic appeal.
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Tropical Vibes: Try adding pineapple chunks to your fried chicken just before serving for a sweet, tangy flavor reminiscent of Hawaiian style. It’s the perfect combo for summer!
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Mix and Match Proteins: Experiment with shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a delightful spin! Both options will soak up the amazing flavors of the garlic sauce, making for a fresh take on this dish.
With these variations, you can enjoy the comforting taste of Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken in new and exciting ways! Don’t forget to explore more delicious meals like the Garlic Chicken Gnocchi or Garlic Butter Chicken to keep inspiring your kitchen adventures!
Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for my recipe?
Absolutely! For the most tender and juicy Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken, I recommend using chicken thighs or breasts. Look for pieces that are fresh with a pinkish hue and firm texture. Avoid chicken with dark spots or a slimy surface, as these can indicate spoilage.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very easy! Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken is cooled completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make it soggy. Just reheat it in the oven to restore that lovely crunch!
Can I freeze Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken?
Of course! To freeze your delicious Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken, first let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
What if my chicken coating isn’t crispy?
No worries! The most common reason for a lackluster coating is either overcrowding the pan when frying or not heating the oil enough. To achieve that perfect crunch, ensure your oil reaches about 350°F (175°C) before you start frying. Fry the chicken in small batches, and press the coating firmly onto the chicken pieces to keep it from falling off.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
I’m glad you asked! This Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken contains soy sauce, which might be an issue for those with gluten or soy allergies. To make it gluten-free, look for gluten-free soy sauce alternatives. Also, the heat from chili flakes can be adjusted or omitted for those sensitive to spice. Make sure to serve it with fluffy jasmine rice if gluten is a concern!
How long does the marination process take?
Marinating your chicken for at least 30 minutes is essential for flavor absorption, but if you really want to enhance those garlicky goodness flavors, letting it marinate overnight will yield the best results. Just keep it covered in the fridge for a richer taste and juicier texture!
Savor Hawaiian Fried Garlic Chicken in 30 Minutes or Less
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine 3/4 cup soy sauce and 3/4 cup sugar over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
- Add 1/2 cup crushed garlic, 1/4 cup chopped green onion, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon red chili flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon white pepper. Boil for 1 minute and remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, place 2 pounds of cubed chicken and pour 4-5 tablespoons of garlic sauce over it along with 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Mix thoroughly and let marinate.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 cup cornstarch, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add 3 tablespoons of garlic sauce and mix until forms clumps.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan until it shimmers. Coat each piece of marinated chicken in the dry mixture and fry in batches for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Once fried, toss the chicken in the warm garlic sauce or serve the sauce on the side. Pair with jasmine rice or fried rice.