hawaiian barbecue chicken recipe
The Best hawaiian barbecue chicken recipe
Hawaiian barbecue chicken is one of those recipes that just works every single time. It’s sweet, tangy, and packed with flavor, but it’s also simple enough that I can throw it together on a busy weeknight without stressing. My kids absolutely love it—even the picky one who usually turns his nose up at anything with sauce will ask for seconds. The best part is how versatile it is. You can grill it, bake it, or even toss it in a slow cooker, and it always comes out tender and delicious.
What I really appreciate about this recipe is how it balances taste with nutrition. The pineapple adds natural sweetness and a boost of vitamin C, while the soy sauce and garlic bring depth without being overly heavy. It’s a great way to get protein into the kids without them even realizing they’re eating something wholesome. Plus, it’s perfect for everything from casual family dinners to summer cookouts with friends. Leftovers reheat well, too, which is always a win in my book. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s easy, flavorful, and just a little bit different, this is the one to try.
Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken
A sweet and tangy Hawaiian-inspired barbecue chicken dish that’s perfect for grilling or baking. The pineapple and barbecue sauce blend creates a delicious glaze with a tropical twist.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ginger powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your grill for medium-high heat.
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2 Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
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3 In a mixing bowl, whisk together all the Hawaiian barbecue sauce ingredients until well combined.
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4 Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until lightly browned.
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5 Pour the Hawaiian barbecue sauce over the chicken, coating it evenly. If using an oven, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. If grilling, reduce heat to medium and cover the grill.
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6 Bake or grill the chicken for 15-20 minutes, basting with the sauce every 5 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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7 Remove the chicken from the oven or grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with pineapple chunks, green onions, and sesame seeds before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking dish or grill pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs
- Oven or grill
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken Works
This Hawaiian barbecue chicken recipe is a foolproof crowd-pleaser that always delivers, no matter the occasion. The sweet and tangy glaze caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving it that perfect balance of flavor without being too complicated, and the juicy, tender meat makes it a hit with both kids and adults. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a big family cookout, this dish is easy to scale up, looks impressive on the table, and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken
1. What type of chicken is best for Hawaiian barbecue chicken?
The best cuts for Hawaiian barbecue chicken are boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Thighs stay juicier and more flavorful during grilling, while breasts cook faster and are leaner. For extra tenderness, you can also use chicken drumsticks or wings, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
2. Can I make Hawaiian barbecue chicken without a grill?
Yes! You can cook Hawaiian barbecue chicken in the oven, on a stovetop grill pan, or even in an air fryer. For the oven, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, basting with sauce halfway through. A grill pan will give you char marks, while an air fryer (at 375°F for 12–15 minutes) yields crispy edges.
3. What’s the key to a good Hawaiian barbecue sauce?
The signature sweet-and-tangy flavor comes from a balance of pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ketchup. For depth, add garlic, ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Simmer the sauce for 10–15 minutes to thicken it and meld the flavors. Some recipes also include a hint of sesame oil or a dash of hot sauce for extra complexity.
4. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out on the grill?
To keep chicken moist, marinate it for at least 2 hours (or overnight) in the barbecue sauce or a simple brine (salt + water). Grill over medium heat (not high) and avoid pressing the chicken with a spatula, which squeezes out juices. Baste frequently with extra sauce during cooking, and let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes after grilling before serving.
5. What are the best side dishes to serve with Hawaiian barbecue chicken?
Classic pairings include sticky white rice or coconut rice, grilled pineapple slices, and macaroni salad. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Hawaiian-style potato salad or garlic butter corn on the cob also complement the sweet and savory flavors.
