Kona Grill Macadamia Nut Chicken: A Crispy, Nutty Delight
When it comes to indulgent yet comforting dishes, Kona Grill Macadamia Nut Chicken is a showstopper. With its crispy golden crust, tender chicken, and luxurious shoyu-cream sauce, this dish has earned a devoted following. Whether you’ve tried it at Kona Grill or are looking to recreate it at home, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this delicious masterpiece.
What Makes Kona Grill Macadamia Nut Chicken So Special?
This dish is not your average fried chicken. It’s elevated with a tropical flair, thanks to the addition of crushed macadamia nuts, which provide a rich, buttery crunch. Paired with creamy shoyu sauce and a side of mashed potatoes and sautéed vegetables, it’s a delightful fusion of textures and flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
- Crunchy & Buttery – The macadamia nut crust gives it a crisp, golden texture with a nutty depth.
- Savory & Sweet – The balance of flavors makes each bite irresistible.
- Easy to Make – Despite its gourmet appeal, it’s surprisingly simple to recreate at home.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home – Skip the reservations and enjoy this fan-favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Kona Grill Macadamia Nut Chicken
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup macadamia nuts (finely crushed)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp butter (for frying)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Shoyu Cream Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup shoyu (soy sauce)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tsp ginger (grated)
For the Sides (Optional):
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed or sautéed vegetables (such as asparagus or green beans)
How to Make Kona Grill Macadamia Nut Chicken
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking.
- Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three separate bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs mixed with milk
- Bowl 3: Crushed macadamia nuts mixed with panko breadcrumbs
Step 3: Coat and Cook the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, ensuring a full coat.
- Press firmly into the macadamia nut-panko mixture until evenly coated.
- In a large pan, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a baking sheet and place in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Step 4: Make the Shoyu Cream Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream, shoyu, and honey, stirring well.
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- Plate the crispy chicken over a bed of mashed potatoes.
- Drizzle generously with shoyu cream sauce.
- Serve with sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Garnish with extra crushed macadamia nuts if desired.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Macadamia Nut Chicken
- Use Fresh Macadamia Nuts – Stale nuts can give an off-flavor, so make sure they are fresh.
- Crush the Nuts Finely – A food processor works best for an even coating.
- Don’t Skip the Panko – It adds extra crunch to the crust.
- Bake for Extra Crispiness – If your chicken isn’t crispy enough after frying, pop it in the oven for a few more minutes.
- Serve Immediately – The sauce and crust are best enjoyed fresh and hot.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Component | Per Serving (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 720 kcal |
| Protein | 45g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 50g |
| Sodium | 890mg |
This dish is rich and indulgent, so if you’re counting calories, you might want to go easy on the sauce (but let’s be real, the sauce is the best part!).
Why You Should Try Making Kona Grill Macadamia Nut Chicken at Home
If you’ve never tried making Kona Grill Macadamia Nut Chicken at home, now’s your chance! Not only will you impress your family and friends, but you’ll also enjoy a restaurant-quality meal for a fraction of the price. Plus, you get bragging rights. Imagine telling people, “Yeah, I make a killer macadamia nut chicken.” Sounds good, right?
Whether you’re craving comfort food, hosting a dinner party, or just want to shake up your weeknight meal routine, this dish is a winner. So, put on that apron, grab some macadamia nuts, and get cooking!
Final Thoughts
Kona Grill Macadamia Nut Chicken is a delicious blend of crunchy, creamy, and savory flavors that make every bite unforgettable. With its easy preparation and gourmet taste, it’s a must-try for any home cook looking to impress. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.
So go ahead, give it a try, and let the flavors transport you to a tropical paradise—minus the airfare! 🍗🥥🌴