If you are craving a tropical twist on classic grilled chicken, this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe is your new go-to. It brilliantly combines the smoky richness of BBQ sauce with the sweet, tangy burst of pineapple, creating a flavor explosion that feels like a mini vacation with every bite. Juicy, tender chicken mingled with that perfect caramelized pineapple makes this dish irresistibly delicious and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a casual weeknight dinner or a lively backyard barbecue, this recipe promises a crowd-pleasing hit that’s packed with vibrant taste and simple ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe. Each component is simple yet essential, contributing its own unique notes—from sweetness and umami to freshness and color.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose thighs for juiciness or breasts for leaner meat; both soak up the marinade beautifully.
- Pineapple rings (fresh or canned): They add that signature tropical sweetness and caramelize gorgeously on the grill.
- BBQ sauce: A rich and smoky base for the marinade that complements the chicken’s flavor perfectly.
- Soy sauce: Adds a savory depth and balances the sweetness with a touch of saltiness.
- Minced garlic: Provides a fragrant punch that wakes up the marinade.
- Green onions (for garnish): Bring a fresh, mild crunch and a pop of vibrant green color.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a bright herbal note and pretty finishing touch.
- Olive oil: Used to lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and help with caramelization.
How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the BBQ sauce, pineapple juice (or crushed pineapple), soy sauce, and minced garlic in a bowl. This marinade is the magic blend that infuses the chicken with bold Hawaiian flavors — the sweet pineapple and rich BBQ combined create a delightful balance that sets this recipe apart.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts or thighs in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least one hour, or even better, overnight if you have the time. This soak allows the chicken to absorb all the juicy, tangy goodness, resulting in a tender, flavorful bite every time.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Grill
Next, get your grill or grill pan ready by preheating it to medium-high. Brush the grates with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and promote those gorgeous grill marks that add both texture and smoky flavor.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken and Pineapple
Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. At the same time, grill the pineapple rings for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a caramelized char. The lightly smoky pineapple slices complement the tender chicken beautifully and can be served alongside or on top.
Step 5: Baste with Extra BBQ Sauce
While the chicken is finishing its final minutes on the grill, brush on some extra BBQ sauce for an added layer of sticky, flavorful glaze. This step amps up the sauciness and ensures every bite is packed with that irresistible Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe flavor.
Step 6: Rest and Slice the Chicken
Once grilled perfectly, let the chicken rest off the heat for about five minutes. Resting helps lock in the juices so the meat stays moist and tender when you slice it.
Step 7: Serve with Grilled Pineapple and Garnishes
Plate the sliced chicken alongside the warm, caramelized pineapple rings. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and parsley for a fresh, colorful finish that makes this dish look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Bright green onions and fresh parsley are classic garnishes that add freshness and chewable texture, balancing the smoky, sweet chicken. They also give your plate a vibrant pop of color, making the dish visually inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe with fluffy coconut rice or a crisp, tangy coleslaw to complement the sweet and savory flavors. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also works beautifully to keep the meal bright and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken and pineapple on a bed of grilled corn off the cob and drizzle with extra BBQ sauce. You could also assemble it into a hearty sandwich or wrap, adding lettuce and a creamy dressing to bring it all together, perfect for casual lunches or picnics.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hawaiian BBQ Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the grilled pineapple separately if possible to maintain its texture and brightness.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note that pineapple texture might change slightly after freezing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the chicken juicy. Avoid microwaving directly as it can dry out the meat. Add a splash of BBQ sauce or pineapple juice to refresh the flavors during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually a great choice for this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe because they tend to stay juicier and more flavorful when grilled.
Do I have to marinate the chicken overnight?
While marinating overnight enhances the flavor, even just one hour in the marinade will impart delicious taste, so don’t worry if you’re short on time.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and pineapple on a grill pan or even bake them in the oven under the broiler, though grilling really adds that perfect smoky character.
What if I don’t have fresh pineapple juice?
No problem! Use juice from canned pineapple or even a little crushed pineapple to mix into your marinade for that sweet tropical touch.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe is mild and sweet, perfect for all ages, but you can always add a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce to the marinade if you like a bit of heat.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe is one of those rare dishes that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Its bright, tropical flavors, smoky char from the grill, and irresistible glaze combine to create a meal that feels like a celebration. Whether you’re sharing it with family or friends, it’s sure to bring smiles and satisfy cravings for something sweet, savory, and downright delicious. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and enjoy a taste of the islands right at home.
Print
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe combines tender grilled chicken with a tangy and sweet pineapple-infused BBQ sauce. Marinated to perfection and served with charred pineapple rings, it offers a delightful balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice or crushed pineapple
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
Grill and Garnish
- 4 pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, pineapple juice or crushed pineapple, soy sauce, and minced garlic until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deepen.
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking and to help achieve beautiful grill marks.
- Grill Chicken and Pineapple: Remove chicken from marinade and place on the grill. Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). At the same time, grill the pineapple rings for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized and tender.
- Brush with BBQ Sauce: During the last few minutes of grilling, generously brush the chicken with additional BBQ sauce to enhance flavor and glaze the surface.
- Rest the Chicken: After grilling, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Serve and Garnish: Slice the rested chicken and serve with the grilled pineapple rings. Garnish with sliced green onions and freshly chopped parsley for a fresh and vibrant finish.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- If using canned pineapple, drain well before grilling to prevent flare-ups.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Can be served with rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Leftover chicken works great cold in sandwiches or salads.
