POLYNESIA/PACIFIC RIM ~ Polynesian Chicken with Coconut
Polynesia (from Greek: πολύς many, νῆσος island) is a large grouping of over 1,000 islands scattered over the central and southern Pacific Ocean. According to the Columbia Encyclopedia, the Polynesian Island region is composed of the Hawaiian Islands, Samoa, Tonga and the islands of French Polynesia, including Tahiti. In contemporary interpretations of Pacific Rim cuisine, regional ingredients, including Pacific fish, tropical fruits, nuts, indigenous herbs and spices, take center stage.
POLYNESIAN COCONUT CHICKEN
2 tablespoons soy sauce, low sodium
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ginger
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
8 boneless skinless chicken breasts
8 ounces pineapple slices in juice, drained
4 teaspoons coconut flakes
In small bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic powder; mix well. Place chicken on plate. Brush both sides of each chicken breast with soy sauce mixture. Cover; let stand for 15 minutes at room temperature to marinate. Heat grill. When ready to barbecue, oil grill rack. Place chicken on gas grill over medium high heat or on charcoal grill 4 to 6 inches from medium high coals. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until chicken is tender and juices run clear, turning once. Top each with pineapple slice during last few minutes of cooking time. Serve sprinkled with coconut.
Source: S's recipe collection.