Chicken and Squash Recipe Hawaii Style for Easy Meals

When you think of Hawaiian cuisine, vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients often come to mind. One such delightful dish that captures the essence of the islands is the Chicken and Squash recipe Hawaii.

This meal combines tender, juicy chicken with the naturally sweet and creamy texture of local squash varieties, creating a harmonious blend of taste and nutrition. Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner or want to impress your guests with a tropical-inspired dish, this recipe brings a slice of paradise straight to your kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the balance of flavors that make it both satisfying and wholesome. From the subtle hints of garlic and ginger to the freshness of herbs and a touch of island-inspired seasoning, every bite transports you to the sun-soaked beaches of Hawaii.

Plus, it’s adaptable for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend feasts. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this tropical favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken and Squash Hawaiian recipe is a perfect fusion of local island flavors and easy-to-find ingredients. You’ll appreciate how the natural sweetness of the squash complements the savory chicken, enhanced by aromatic herbs and spices common in Hawaiian cooking.

It’s a one-pan meal that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor, making it ideal for busy cooks or anyone seeking a vibrant, healthy dinner option.

Moreover, this dish is versatile — you can easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite vegetables to personalize it. It’s also family-friendly, colorful, and caters to both novices and experienced home chefs.

You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cups Hawaiian pumpkin or kabocha squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or coconut sugar
• 1 teaspoon Hawaiian sea salt or regular sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 1 cup chicken broth, low sodium preferred
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Cutting board
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Grater for ginger

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken and squash. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Peel and cube the squash into roughly 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
2. Heat the skillet. Place your skillet over medium heat and add the coconut oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Add garlic and ginger. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
4. Cook the chicken. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Sear them until lightly browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Season the dish. Pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the seasonings.
6. Add squash and broth. Add the cubed squash and chicken broth to the pan. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
7. Simmer and cover. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
8. Check for doneness. The chicken should be cooked through and the squash tender but not mushy. If needed, cook an additional 5 minutes uncovered to thicken the sauce.
9. Garnish and serve. Remove from heat and sprinkle with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

“For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.”

You can substitute the Hawaiian pumpkin with butternut squash or acorn squash if those are easier to find. To make this dish spicier, add more crushed red pepper or a dash of Hawaiian chili pepper sauce.

For a creamy twist, stir in a splash of coconut milk during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

For a complete meal, add chopped bell peppers or snap peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking to keep them crisp. Serve this with steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.

If you prefer white meat, chicken breasts can be used but cook carefully to avoid dryness.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Hawaiian chicken and squash dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a traditional island feel, serve it alongside steamed white or brown rice and a fresh pineapple salsa.

You can also enjoy it over coconut rice for an extra tropical touch.

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken and squash. For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice or sautéed greens like kale or spinach.

Don’t forget a refreshing tropical drink or iced tea to complete your Hawaiian-inspired meal.

If you enjoy exploring recipes that combine hearty proteins with fresh vegetables, you might also love checking out these dishes: Baked Chicken and Veggies Recipe Copper Pan Delight, All Recipes Chicken Rice and Vegetable Soup Ideas, and Best Chicken Broccoli Vegetable Soup Instant Pot Recipes.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Squash Hawaiian recipe is a wonderful way to bring the vibrant flavors of the islands into your home kitchen. It’s simple, nutritious, and offers a comforting balance of sweet and savory that will delight your taste buds.

Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress with its colorful presentation and rich flavor profile.

With easy-to-follow steps and flexible ingredient options, it’s perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, the natural sweetness of the squash paired with tender chicken makes it a wholesome meal that nourishes both body and soul.

Dive into this recipe and enjoy a delicious trip to Hawaii without leaving your dining table!

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