Crispy, golden, and bursting with addictively savory-sweet flavor, Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken is a true island classic that wins hearts at first bite. Imagine juicy chicken, marinated just right, coated in a shatteringly crisp crust, and finished with a fragrant garlic glaze that will have everyone reaching for seconds. This recipe captures the joyful spirit of Hawaiian gatherings and brings big flavors to your own table in a totally doable way, no matter where you are.

Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to be amazed by how a handful of everyday ingredients can come together to form such a satisfying and unforgettable dish. Each element here brings something unique, from the crunch of the coating to the deep umami notes of the marinade—so don’t underestimate the power of each one!

Chicken thighs: Juicier and more flavorful than breasts, thighs are ideal for tender, succulent bites.
Soy sauce: Adds deep umami and saltiness to the marinade, creating a perfectly seasoned foundation.
Fresh garlic: The star aromatic—finely minced, it makes every bite pop with that signature garlicky kick.
Ginger: Adds brightness and a gentle zing that balances the richness of the chicken.
Sugar: A touch of sweetness rounds out the savory flavors and helps caramelize the crust.
Sesame oil: Infuses the marinade with a nutty, toasty depth—just a little goes a long way!
Cornstarch: Key for an ultra-crispy coating that shatters when you bite in.
All-purpose flour: Works with cornstarch for the ideal balance of crunch and sturdiness.
Eggs: Help the coating stick and add an extra layer of richness to each piece.
Vegetable oil (for frying): Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for perfect crisping without overpowering flavors.
Green onions: Optional, but they add fresh color and a gentle bite when sprinkled as garnish.

How to Make Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Pieces

Start by combining soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, sugar, and sesame oil in a large bowl. Add your trimmed chicken thighs and toss until each piece is thoroughly coated. Let this luscious mixture marinate for at least 30 minutes—or even overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor. This is where the Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken really starts developing its irresistible layers of taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Coating

In a separate shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, flour, and a pinch of salt. Beat the eggs in another bowl. Once the chicken has had time to soak up all that delicious marinade, dip each piece in the egg, then dredge it in the cornstarch-flour mix until evenly coated. This double-dip method ensures each piece will be gloriously crispy!

Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection

Pour about two inches of vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep pan and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Working in batches, gently lower the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and super crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch, making sure not to crowd the pan. Set the cooked chicken on a rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Signature Garlic Glaze

In a small pan, heat a couple of tablespoons of vegetable oil and sauté minced garlic until just fragrant and slightly golden. Pour this garlicky oil over your freshly fried chicken, or toss the pieces gently to ensure every bite gets a glossy, flavor-packed finish. This final step is what makes Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken truly unforgettable.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Scatter finely sliced green onions over the crisp, glazed chicken for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and extra crunchy!

How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions is classic, but a dusting of toasted sesame seeds or a wedge of lemon adds another layer of flavor and a bit of flair. Trust me, these little touches give your Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken that irresistible “something extra” everyone loves at potlucks and parties.

Side Dishes

Nothing goes better with this dish than a scoop of fluffy steamed rice to soak up every last bit of garlic goodness. If you’re feeling festive, add a bright Asian-style slaw, grilled pineapple slices, or even classic macaroni salad for a true Hawaiian plate lunch experience!

Creative Ways to Present

Pile your Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken high on a rustic platter lined with banana leaves for island vibes, or make mini fried chicken sliders for a fun party twist. For something different, nestle the pieces in lettuce wraps with pickled veggies for a refreshing hand-held treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your leftover Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken cool completely before placing it in an airtight container and refrigerating. It’ll stay crisp and tasty for up to three days, making it a fantastic candidate for meal prep or late-night snacking.

Freezing

If you’ve made a big batch, let the fried pieces cool and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents sticking and preserves that coveted crunch for up to two months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the chicken in a hot oven (about 375°F/190°C) for 10-12 minutes or until sizzling and heated through. This helps revive the crispy exterior, so your Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken tastes just as amazing the next day.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can swap in chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, but keep a close eye to avoid overcooking—they’ll be a bit less juicy than traditional thighs.

Is it possible to bake instead of fry?

While baking can work, frying really delivers that unforgettable crunch. If you must bake, arrange coated chicken on a wire rack, spray with oil, and bake at 425°F until golden, turning once.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free (like tamari). The taste stays just as marvelous!

Does the garlic flavor mellow after cooking?

Absolutely. Sautéing the garlic softens its raw sharpness, creating a mellow, aromatic glaze that’s rich but never overwhelming.

What’s the best oil for frying this chicken?

Go with a neutral, high-heat oil such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. These ensure the Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken gets crispy without adding any unwanted flavors.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a family-friendly meal that packs bold flavor and big crunch, give Hawaiian Garlic Fried Chicken a place on your table. It’s easier than you think, fun to share, and promises to turn any dinner into a tropical celebration!