Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

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Fire up your grill or stovetop because this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is a tropical flavor bomb you won’t want to miss. Juicy, tender chicken is bathed in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce infused with pineapple, then grilled to caramelized perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as perfect for summer cookouts as it is for weeknight dinners.

The magic of this dish lies in the pairing of savory barbecue glaze with the brightness of grilled pineapple. The result? A saucy, sticky, slightly smoky chicken that’s bursting with flavor in every bite. Serve it with a side of rice or tuck it into buns for BBQ chicken sandwiches—either way, this recipe delivers sunshine on a plate.

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What Kind of BBQ Sauce Works Best for Hawaiian Chicken?

The best barbecue sauce for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is one that leans into sweet and fruity flavors. Think of sauces with a base of brown sugar, honey, or pineapple juice. You can use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce and doctor it up with some crushed pineapple and soy sauce, or make a homemade Hawaiian-style sauce that balances tangy, sweet, and smoky notes.

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Ingredients for the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: These are perfect for absorbing the BBQ sauce marinade and grilling up juicy.
• Pineapple rings: Fresh or canned, these get beautifully caramelized on the grill and add a burst of tropical flavor.
• BBQ sauce: Choose a sweet-style sauce or make your own with pineapple juice, ketchup, brown sugar, and soy sauce.
• Soy sauce: Adds an umami punch that balances the sweetness.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the sauce a deeper, aromatic layer.
• Green onions and fresh parsley: For garnish, adding color and a mild bite of freshness.
• Olive oil: Used for grilling and keeping the chicken moist.

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How To Make the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining your BBQ sauce, pineapple juice (or crushed pineapple), soy sauce, and minced garlic in a bowl. Whisk it all together until smooth. Add the chicken breasts or thighs to a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour in the marinade. Seal it and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill or Skillet

When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a stovetop, a grill pan or cast iron skillet works best. Lightly brush the grates or pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken and Pineapple

Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Grill the pineapple rings alongside the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, until they develop nice char marks.

Step 4: Glaze and Rest

Brush extra BBQ sauce over the chicken during the final minutes of grilling to build up a glossy, flavorful glaze. Once done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Slice the chicken and serve it with the grilled pineapple. Sprinkle chopped green onions and parsley over the top for a pop of freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the tropical BBQ goodness.

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Serving and Storing Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

This dish shines brightest when served fresh off the grill, warm and glistening with that irresistible BBQ glaze. Pair it with coconut rice, grilled veggies, or a tropical fruit salad for a well-rounded Hawaiian-inspired meal. You can also slice it and use it in wraps, tacos, or BBQ chicken sandwiches for fun variations.

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the grilled chicken and pineapple separately for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to preserve moisture and flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving on the grill. Just adjust the cook time slightly, as they may need a couple more minutes.

Can I bake this instead of grilling?

Yes! You can bake the marinated chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes to caramelize the glaze.

What if I don’t have fresh pineapple?

Canned pineapple rings work just as well. Choose the ones packed in juice (not syrup) for best flavor.

Can I use a sugar-free BBQ sauce?

Of course! Just make sure it still has some tang or sweetness to balance the flavors. You might want to add a splash of pineapple juice or a sugar-free sweetener.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the meat.

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Definitely. Marinate the chicken the night before and grill just before serving. You can also grill it ahead and reheat gently to serve warm.

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