Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe You’ll Instantly Love

Have you ever craved a dish that instantly transports you to a tropical paradise? This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe might be just what your weeknight dinner or backyard BBQ is missing. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory, infused with juicy pineapple glaze and bold island-inspired flavors, this recipe brings the aloha spirit straight to your plate.

What I love most about it is how easy it is to prepare—whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer cookout or looking to shake up your regular dinner routine. The flavorful BBQ marinade soaks into tender boneless chicken thighs, creating that irresistible caramelized finish you’ll want to savor again and again.

Ready to bring a taste of the islands to your table? Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish unforgettable.

Ingredients for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Before we dive into the marinade magic, let’s get everything prepped. This recipe keeps it simple but flavorful, using pantry staples with a tropical twist. Here’s what you’ll need to bring those bold Hawaiian flavors to life:

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs – They’re juicy, tender, and soak up the marinade beautifully. If you want a slimmer cut, you may alternatively use chicken breasts.

For the Marinade:

• ½ cup pineapple juice: This adds a touch of tropical flavor and softens the chicken.
• ¼ cup soy sauce – Adds that savory depth we all crave in BBQ dishes.
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce – Gives a subtle sweetness and a rich umami base.
• A spoonful of brown sugar adds sweetness and helps caramelize on the grill.
• One tablespoon of sesame oil: A small amount adds a lot of nutty flavor.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic brings punch and personality to the marinade.
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger – A little zing that makes a big difference.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional) – For a slight tang to balance the sweetness.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Just enough to round out the flavor.

Optional Garnishes and Add-ons:

• Grilled pineapple slices – A must if you love doubling down on that tropical flair.
• Chopped green onions or cilantro – For a fresh, colorful finish.
• Sesame seeds – A nice crunch and visual pop.

Pro Tip:
Mix your marinade ingredients in a bowl or resealable bag, then add the chicken and let it soak for at least 2 hours—overnight if you can. This gives the BBQ marinade time to work its magic, making each bite extra flavorful.

Up next, I’ll walk you through how to cook this island-inspired masterpiece to perfection—grill marks and all.

How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Ready to fire up the flavor? This Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe is all about bold taste and simple steps. Whether you’re grilling outside or cooking indoors, these instructions will guide you through every juicy, caramelized bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken
This step is where the magic happens. The longer the chicken sits in that sweet and savory BBQ marinade, the more flavorful it becomes.

• In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and vinegar (if using).
• Add the boneless chicken thighs and toss to coat well.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

2. Preheat Your Grill (or Skillet)
For that classic grilled chicken finish, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. No grill? No problem. A stovetop grill pan or even a cast iron skillet works great too.

3. Grill the Chicken

• Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. (Don’t toss the leftover marinade just yet—we’ll use it in a second.)
• Depending on its thickness, cook the chicken on the grill for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for nice char marks and a juicy center.
• Optional: While the chicken grills, bring the leftover marinade to a simmer in a small saucepan for 5 minutes. It may be used as a glaze or to baste the chicken while it’s cooking.

4. Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer if you have one—165°F (74°C) is the sweet spot for perfectly cooked chicken that’s still juicy.

5. Let It Rest
Before slicing, allow the chicken to rest for five minutes after grilling. This helps spread the liquids evenly and guarantees that every mouthful stays tender.

Pro Tip:
If you’re short on time, try cutting the chicken into chunks and skewering them for quicker cooking and extra char. It also makes a fun, island-style presentation.

Next up, I’ll show you some delicious ways to serve this vibrant island-inspired barbecue dish—whether it’s for a backyard party or a simple family dinner.

Pro Tips and Variations for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Want to take your Hawaiian BBQ chicken from great to unforgettable? These tips and variations will help you tailor the dish to your taste, make meal prep easier, and even add a little tropical twist your guests won’t see coming.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Marinate Overnight for Maximum Flavor
  If time allows, marinate your chicken overnight. The pineapple juice helps tenderize the meat while allowing the BBQ flavors to fully absorb.
• Pat Chicken Dry Before Grilling
  Gently pat the chicken with paper towels before placing it on the grill. This prevents flare-ups and gives you that golden, caramelized finish.
• Use a Thermometer for Perfect Juiciness
  Chicken can go from juicy to dry in minutes. A quick temperature check ensures it hits that ideal 165°F every time.
• Don’t Skip the Rest Time
  This ensures every bite remains tender and helps redistribute the juices evenly. Slice too early and the juices will run out—worth the short wait!
• Grill Pineapple for a Bonus Layer of Flavor
  Toss a few pineapple rings on the grill. The slight char enhances their natural sweetness and complements the BBQ chicken perfectly.

Tasty Variations to Try

• Spicy Hawaiian BBQ Chicken
  Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade if you love a little heat with your sweet.
• Baked Version
  No grill? No problem. Baste the marinated chicken midway through the 25 to 30 minutes of baking at 400°F (200°C) to create a sticky coating.
• Slow Cooker Shortcut
  Toss everything into a slow cooker and cook on low for 5–6 hours. It won’t have grill marks, but it’s ultra tender and packed with island BBQ flavor.
• Add Coconut Milk for Creaminess
  Stir a splash of coconut milk into your reserved marinade while simmering. It gives the glaze a richer, creamier finish.
• Turn It into Tacos or Bowls
  Slice up the grilled chicken and serve it in soft tortillas with slaw or over steamed rice with veggies for a full meal.

This recipe is super flexible, so don’t be afraid to get creative. Whether you like it smoky, spicy, or extra tropical, Hawaiian BBQ chicken is one of those dishes that never gets old. Let’s keep going and explore the best ways to serve it up island-style.

Serving Suggestions for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Once your Hawaiian BBQ chicken is grilled to perfection, the fun part begins—serving it up in a way that brings out all those smoky, sweet, and tangy island flavors. Whether you’re planning a laid-back dinner or a full-blown tropical cookout, these ideas will help you create a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable.

Classic Island-Style Plates

• Serve over white or jasmine rice
  Let that flavorful BBQ glaze soak into a fluffy bed of rice—simple, comforting, and absolutely delicious.
• Add a scoop of macaroni salad
  Channel authentic Hawaiian plate lunch vibes by pairing your chicken with creamy mac salad and a tangy cabbage slaw.
• Include grilled pineapple slices
  Sweet, charred pineapple is the perfect pairing for BBQ chicken. It complements the sauce and adds visual appeal to your plate.

Light & Fresh Options

• Make a Hawaiian BBQ chicken salad
  Slice the chicken and lay it over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. Drizzle with a light sesame or citrus vinaigrette.
• Serve in lettuce wraps
  To add a low-carb twist, stuff crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves with shredded carrots, diced BBQ chicken, and a little teriyaki or spicy mayo.
• Build a BBQ chicken bowl
  Start with rice or quinoa, then add your chicken, edamame, pickled onions, and a dollop of pineapple salsa or sriracha aioli.

Crowd-Pleasing Party Ideas

• BBQ chicken sliders
  Shred the chicken and pile it onto Hawaiian sweet rolls with pickled jalapeños or coleslaw for easy handheld bites.
• Taco night, island-style
  Use soft tortillas or grilled flatbread and top with chopped Hawaiian BBQ chicken, mango salsa, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
• Skewers for easy entertaining
  Thread chunks of marinated chicken with pineapple and red bell peppers. Great for parties and super kid-friendly, too.

This dish brings vibrant, tropical energy to the table—so don’t be afraid to mix and match sides and sauces to suit your taste or the occasion. Whether plated traditionally or served in a fresh, modern format, Hawaiian BBQ chicken always delivers a taste of aloha.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about Hawaiian BBQ chicken—that perfect harmony of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors transports you straight to the islands with every bite. It’s a recipe that’s both easy to make and impossible to forget, whether you’re serving it up on a busy weeknight or sharing it with friends at your next backyard BBQ.

This dish’s adaptability is what sets it apart. You can keep it classic with rice and grilled pineapple, or mix it up with tacos, salads, or sliders. However you choose to serve it, the bold flavors and tender texture never disappoint.

And let’s not forget—this isn’t just a recipe. It’s an invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy food that feels as joyful as it tastes. Whether you’re new to BBQ or a seasoned grill master, this Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.

So fire up the grill, grab that bottle of pineapple juice, and let’s bring a little aloha to the table—one delicious bite at a time.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great for this recipe. Just be sure to monitor the cooking time to avoid overcooking, as breasts can dry out faster than bone-in chicken. If you’re using them, consider marinating for a little longer to keep them juicy.

2. Can I make the Hawaiian BBQ chicken in the oven instead of grilling?
Yes! If you don’t have access to a grill, simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for about 25-30 minutes, basting with the BBQ sauce halfway through for extra flavor. If you want a grill-like finish, you can broil the chicken for the last 3-5 minutes to get a nice caramelized glaze.

3. How can I store leftovers?
You may keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three or four days if you put them in an airtight container. For best results, reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to preserve the chicken’s juiciness. The chicken freezes nicely for up to three months if you want to keep it for a longer period of time. Just make sure to freeze it in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag.

4. Can I use a different kind of meat in this recipe?
Yes! While this recipe is traditionally made with chicken, you can also use pork or tofu for a different take. For pork, pork tenderloin or chops work well, and for tofu, be sure to press it first to remove excess moisture, then marinate and cook as you would with chicken.

5. Can I make the BBQ sauce from scratch?
Absolutely! If you prefer a homemade BBQ sauce, you can combine ingredients like ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and your favorite spices. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your taste for the perfect BBQ flavor.

6. Can I add more spice to the sauce?
Yes, you can easily adjust the heat level by adding a teaspoon of chili flakes, hot sauce, or a small chopped jalapeño to the BBQ sauce. Just add a little extra honey or brown sugar to temper the heat if you like a sweeter sauce.

7. How can I make this recipe low-carb?
For a low-carb version, skip the rice and opt for a bed of leafy greens or cauliflower rice. You can also serve the chicken with zucchini noodles or grilled veggies to keep the dish light but still full of flavor.

By now, you should be ready to master the Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe and make it your own. Whether you’re tweaking the ingredients or adding your own spin, the key is to enjoy the process and share the love with friends and family. Happy cooking!