hawaiian bbq chicken recipe

The Best hawaiian bbq chicken recipe

I’ve been making this Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe for years, and it’s hands-down one of my family’s absolute favorites. There’s something about that sweet and tangy glaze that just hits the spot—it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve at a cookout or potluck. My kids always ask for seconds, and honestly, I don’t blame them. The flavors are bold without being overpowering, and it pairs perfectly with just about anything, from rice to grilled veggies to a fresh green salad.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to throw together without sacrificing flavor. The marinade comes together in minutes, and you can either grill the chicken or bake it if the weather isn’t cooperating. Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to a lot of store-bought BBQ sauces, since you control the sugar and ingredients. The pineapple juice adds natural sweetness, and the garlic and ginger give it a nice kick without being spicy. It’s a balanced meal that feels indulgent but is actually pretty good for you, especially if you use lean chicken breasts or thighs. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick, satisfying dinner, this Hawaiian BBQ chicken never disappoints.

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

4.5 from 1062 votes

A sweet and tangy grilled chicken dish featuring a tropical twist with pineapple and barbecue sauce. Perfect for summer cookouts or a quick weeknight dinner with a taste of the islands.

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Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time30 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time45 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Hawaiian BBQ Sauce

• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For Serving

• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
• Sesame seeds for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. 2 Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Coat evenly, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
3. 3 While the chicken marinates, prepare the Hawaiian BBQ sauce. In a saucepan, combine barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. 4 Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
5. 5 Remove chicken from the marinade (discard used marinade) and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste with the Hawaiian BBQ sauce during the last 2 minutes of grilling.
6. 6 While the chicken cooks, grill the pineapple chunks, bell pepper, and red onion for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly charred.
7. 7 Slice the grilled chicken and serve with the grilled pineapple, bell pepper, and red onion. Drizzle with additional Hawaiian BBQ sauce, garnish with cilantro and sesame seeds, and enjoy!

🔧Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Grill or grill pan
• Tongs
• Basting brush
• Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 25g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra tenderness, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating. If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, basting with sauce halfway through.

This Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe is a surefire way to bring everyone together, no matter the occasion. The sweet and tangy flavors are always a hit with both kids and adults, making it a stress-free choice for family gatherings. Plus, it’s simple to prepare in big batches, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the people you love.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

1. What ingredients do I need for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken?

You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, ketchup, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and optional ingredients like pineapple chunks or bell peppers for extra flavor. Some recipes also include sesame oil or honey for sweetness.

2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful during grilling. If using breasts, avoid overcooking them to prevent dryness. Marinating for at least 4 hours (or overnight) helps keep them tender.

3. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will add some flavor, though the results won’t be as rich.

4. Can I bake Hawaiian BBQ Chicken instead of grilling?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 25-30 minutes (or until internal temperature reaches 165°F). Brush with extra sauce halfway through for extra caramelization.

5. What sides pair well with Hawaiian BBQ Chicken?

Classic sides include steamed white rice, grilled pineapple slices, macaroni salad, or a fresh green salad. For a lighter option, try roasted vegetables or coconut rice to complement the sweet and savory flavors.