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
Scale
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.
