Chef Mitchell preparing Spicy Hawaiian Fried Chicken
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Spicy Hawaiian Fried Chicken recipe during a trip to Hawaii, where the flavors of the islands captivated my taste buds. After much experimentation in my kitchen, I perfected this dish, balancing the heat of the spices with the sweetness of pineapple. It's now a family favorite that brings the vibrant spirit of Hawaiian cuisine to our dinner table. Every bite takes me back to those sunny shores!"

Chef Mitchell has over a decade of experience in crafting Hawaiian dishes and dinner recipes. His passion for bold flavors and fresh ingredients shines through in every recipe he creates. With a background from a renowned culinary school, he has mastered the art of bringing the tastes of Hawaii to life.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Spicy Hawaiian Fried Chicken served on a plate

Why This Spicy Hawaiian Fried Chicken Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because of its unique combination of spicy and sweet flavors, perfectly embodying Hawaiian cuisine. The crispy fried chicken serves as a delicious base for the bold sauce, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. The marinade tenderizes the chicken, allowing it to soak up the sauce beautifully. This creates a harmony of textures and tastes that is truly satisfying.

The technique used in coating and frying the chicken is key to achieving that perfect crunch. By allowing the chicken to marinate, we ensure maximum flavor while the flour coating, seasoned with spices, adds a delightful crispiness. Frying in hot oil seals in moisture and yields a golden-brown exterior. Together, these elements create a dish that's not only appetizing but also comforting.

💡 Professional Tip

For the crispiest chicken, ensure your oil is at the right temperature before frying. If the oil is too cold, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy. If it's too hot, the coating may burn before the chicken cooks through. Using a thermometer can help maintain the ideal frying temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and even fry it ahead of time. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore its crispiness. Toss in the sauce just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens. This will mimic the tanginess and acidity of buttermilk, helping to tenderize the chicken.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the chicken. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.

Yes, you can freeze the fried chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven from frozen, ensuring it heats through and remains crispy.

This dish pairs well with fluffy white rice or fried rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Consider serving it with a refreshing coleslaw or a side of grilled vegetables for a balanced meal. A tropical fruit salad can also complement the flavors beautifully.

Stored properly in an airtight container, Spicy Hawaiian Fried Chicken can last in the refrigerator for about 3 days. It's best to consume it within this timeframe for optimal flavor and freshness.

You can prepare and marinate the chicken in advance. Just remember to coat it in flour and fry it right before serving for the best texture. Alternatively, you can fry the chicken ahead of time and reheat it just before serving.

The best way to reheat Spicy Hawaiian Fried Chicken is in the oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken is dry and lacks moisture.

Solution: Make sure the chicken is well-marinated in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes or overnight if possible. Avoid overcooking by monitoring the internal temperature closely.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The chicken coating is not crispy.

Solution: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. Let the chicken rest after frying to allow steam to escape, preventing the coating from becoming soggy.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The chicken is tough and dry.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, monitor the frying time closely and check the internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F without exceeding it.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The inside of the chicken is raw while the outside is cooked.

Recovery: If the outside is browned but the inside is undercooked, lower the heat and continue cooking until done. Consider cutting the chicken into smaller pieces for more even cooking.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The outside of the chicken is burnt while the inside is raw.

Prevention: If the exterior burns too quickly, reduce the heat and fry in smaller batches to maintain a consistent temperature. This allows for thorough cooking without burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or more soy sauce to cut the sweetness.

Too Salty: If too salty, balance it with a bit of sugar or honey to offset the saltiness.

Bland: If the chicken is bland, increase the seasoning in the marinade or add more spices to the flour coating.

Fresh ingredients for Spicy Hawaiian Fried Chicken

Essential Ingredients for Spicy Hawaiian Fried Chicken

The key ingredients in this recipe include chicken, which should be fresh and high-quality for the best flavor. The marinade made from buttermilk adds tenderness, while the flour coating seasoned with spices contributes to the perfect crunch. The sauce, made from pineapple juice and sriracha, balances spicy and sweet, enhancing the dish significantly.

Using fresh, quality ingredients is crucial for achieving the best results. Opt for organic chicken whenever possible, and make sure your spices are fresh and potent. The combination of sweet and spicy in the sauce should be balanced, so adjust the ingredients to your taste for a personalized flavor.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Choose bone-in chicken pieces for juiciness and flavor. Marinating in buttermilk not only tenderizes the meat but also adds depth to the overall taste. Consider using a mix of thighs and drumsticks for varying textures.
  • Sriracha: Sriracha is a versatile hot sauce that adds heat and flavor. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. You can also substitute with other hot sauces or add chili flakes for extra heat.
  • Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice is ideal for this recipe as it adds natural sweetness and acidity. If using canned juice, select a brand without added sugars for a more authentic taste. Pineapple juice enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
Cooking process for Spicy Hawaiian Fried Chicken

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The process of making Spicy Hawaiian Fried Chicken is straightforward and rewarding. Start with marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor and moisture. Preparing a seasoned flour mixture helps create a crisp crust that locks in the juiciness of the chicken while frying. Each step is designed to enhance the flavors and textures.

Once the chicken is coated in flour and fried to golden perfection, tossing it in the sweet and spicy sauce is the final touch. This step not only adds flavor but makes the dish visually appealing. Following these steps ensures a delicious result every time.

Key Technique for Perfect Spicy Hawaiian Fried Chicken

The key to achieving perfect Spicy Hawaiian Fried Chicken lies in the marination and frying technique. Marinating the chicken in buttermilk tenderizes the meat and infuses flavor, while the seasoned flour coating creates a crunchy texture. Maintaining the oil temperature during frying ensures even cooking and golden-brown crust, providing that irresistible bite every time.

Spicy Hawaiian Fried Chicken

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/4 cup honey
    For sweetness
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
    Adds umami flavor
  • 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
    For heat
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
    For sweetness and acidity

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk
    For marinating
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    For coating
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    Adds flavor
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    Adds flavor
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
    Adds color
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
    For heat
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    For seasoning
  • vegetable oil
    For frying

Instructions

  1. Marinate Chicken

    In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with buttermilk and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Prepare Coating

    In another bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

  3. Coat Chicken

    Take marinated chicken, shake off excess buttermilk, and coat each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture.

  4. Heat Oil

    In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.

  5. Fry Chicken

    Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.

  6. Prepare Sauce

    In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, sriracha, honey, and soy sauce; cook over medium heat until slightly thickened.

  7. Toss Chicken in Sauce

    Once chicken is cooked and crispy, remove from oil and toss in the prepared sauce.

  8. Garnish and Serve

    Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Spicy Hawaiian Fried Chicken, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it, but be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spicy Hawaiian Fried Chicken with a side of fluffy white rice or a colorful salad. It pairs wonderfully with tropical fruits like mango or pineapple for a refreshing contrast. Don't forget to provide additional dipping sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra flavor.

Recipe Variations

You can customize this recipe by experimenting with different spices in the flour coating or using different hot sauces to adjust the heat level. For a healthier version, try baking the chicken instead of frying, or use boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option.