Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe lovers know there’s something special about that sweet, smoky, and tangy flavor all in one bite. Whether you’re planning a laid-back cookout or just need a quick weeknight dinner with flair, this dish brings island-inspired magic right to your table. In this guide, you’ll get a step-by-step walkthrough—from marinating to cooking methods—plus answers to common questions and perfect pairings to make your meal complete.
This isn’t just another chicken recipe. It’s a way to turn everyday ingredients into something deeply flavorful and satisfying.
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Why This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe Means So Much to Me
I first fell in love with this Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe during family summers spent in the backyard. My grandmother had a way of transforming everyday ingredients—pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar—into something truly magical. She never wrote it down. It was all memory, taste, and a splash of instinct. I’d watch her pour the marinade over a bowl of chicken thighs, then slow-grill them as the glaze thickened and caramelized.
We’d sit outside, bare feet in the grass, paper plates loaded with rice and chicken, the grill still warm behind us. This wasn’t just food. It was connection.
What Sets This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe Apart
The balance of flavors in this Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe is what makes it special. You get the tropical tang of pineapple, the deep saltiness of soy, and just enough sweetness to caramelize perfectly. Unlike some versions that rely on store-bought sauces, this one gives you full control over flavor—plus it’s easy to adjust for spice or sweetness.
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The Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe for Sweet, Sticky Flavor
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Hawaiian
Description
This Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe blends sweet pineapple, savory soy, and a smoky char to create an island-inspired dish perfect for any night of the week. Grill, bake, or sear—it’s flavorful, juicy, and easy to make with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup pineapple juice (from canned pineapple in juice, not syrup)
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
¼ cup brown sugar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
Grilled pineapple slices, for serving
Cooked rice or coconut rice, for serving
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Stir well.
Set aside ½ cup of marinade for basting later.
Place chicken in a large zip-top bag or bowl. Pour remaining marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for more flavor.
Remove chicken from marinade and let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
Grilling Method: Preheat grill to medium-high. Cook chicken 6–7 minutes per side, basting with reserved marinade until internal temp reaches 165°F.
Oven Method: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, brushing with reserved marinade halfway through.
Stovetop Method: Sear chicken in a hot skillet for 4–5 minutes per side. Cover and cook until done, basting with reserved marinade.
Serve with grilled pineapple, rice, and your favorite side.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 servings
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Mastering the Ingredients in This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe
The secret to a great Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe lies in a short list of smart, flavorful ingredients. This recipe doesn’t call for anything fancy—just the right balance of sweet, salty, and tangy components that turn simple chicken into something unforgettable.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pineapple juice (from a can of pineapple slices in juice—not syrup)
- Low-sodium soy sauce for depth
- Brown sugar for caramelization
- A few cloves of fresh garlic and about a thumb’s worth of ginger, both minced
- Sesame oil (optional but adds richness)
- Boneless chicken thighs or breasts
If you’re short on time or pantry items, you can easily adapt this. No pineapple juice? Try orange juice with a splash of vinegar. No fresh garlic? Garlic powder works in a pinch. Want extra heat? A spoonful of sriracha or chili paste does the trick.
Need a tropical side to go with it? You’ll love our slow cooker candied yams recipe—a soft, sweet pairing that balances the grilled flavor perfectly.
How to Prep This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe for Bold Flavor
Start by mixing your marinade and setting aside a generous splash—about half a cup—for basting. Pour the rest over the chicken and marinate in the fridge for a few hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
Before it hits the heat, let the chicken sit out for around 15 minutes to take the chill off and help it cook evenly. If grilling, oil the grates first. If baking, foil-line your pan for faster cleanup.
Don’t skip grilling or broiling your pineapple slices—just a couple minutes per side is all it takes to bring out that charred sweetness. Need another summer-friendly side? Try these spring slow cooker recipes for more flavor-packed options that work for any occasion.
How Often Should You Turn Chicken in a Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe?
A common mistake with any Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe is over-flipping. For the best results, turn the chicken only once—twice at most—during cooking. Constant turning prevents that golden, caramelized layer from forming, especially when using sugar-rich marinades like this one.
If grilling, wait until the chicken releases easily from the grates before flipping (usually around 6–7 minutes per side). On the stovetop, avoid moving the chicken until a deep brown crust forms. And for oven-baked versions, no flipping is needed unless you broil at the end.
Want more smart BBQ swaps and twists? Try our Cinco de Mayo slow cooker recipes, where bold flavors meet easy prep—a great match for this chicken’s energy.
What to Serve with This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe
The best part about a good Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe? It goes with almost everything. Whether you’re planning a backyard feast or a cozy dinner, pairings make it shine.
Start with grilled pineapple—it echoes the marinade and adds natural sweetness. A side of steamed white rice or coconut rice balances the bold flavors. For added crunch, go with a colorful slaw made from cabbage, shredded carrots, and a splash of sesame dressing.
Want a heartier meal? Try it with our summer slow cooker recipes like corn on the cob or scalloped potatoes—easy, make-ahead dishes that free up your hands. For something lighter, pair it with air fryer banana chips for a salty-sweet snack that keeps with the tropical vibe.
And don’t forget drinks! A fresh limeade or pineapple-mint cooler ties it all together beautifully.
Is This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe Healthy—and How to Store It Right
When it comes to nutrition, a Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe made at home can be surprisingly balanced. Using lean cuts like boneless, skinless chicken breasts and keeping the sugar content in check helps you enjoy a flavorful dish without the guilt. Pineapple juice adds vitamin C, and soy sauce offers depth with very little fat.
Once cooked, let the chicken cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator—it’ll stay fresh for several days. To reheat, toss it in a skillet over medium heat with a spoonful of marinade or a splash of water to bring back the moisture.
Got extra pineapple and leftover rice? Build a tropical lunch bowl the next day—it’s a fun, no-waste twist that keeps the flavor going.
Conclusion: A Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe That Brings Everyone to the Table
With its balance of sweet pineapple, bold soy, and that perfect grill-kissed finish, this Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe delivers a dish that feels like a little tropical getaway. It’s easy to prep, family-friendly, and perfect for any occasion—from summer gatherings to cozy weeknight dinners. Whether you’re new to grilling or just love island-style meals, this one’s sure to become a favorite.
If you’ve enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore more flavor-packed dishes on Yumi Meals like our BBQ corned beef brisket or Cinco de Mayo slow cooker meals—each one tested and loved in my own kitchen.
Let’s keep the joy of cooking alive, one delicious meal at a time.
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FAQ About This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe
How often should I turn Huli Huli chicken?
When cooking Huli Huli-style chicken, it’s best to turn it just once or twice. Let each side cook long enough to develop a caramelized crust from the marinade. Turning it too often can cause the glaze to burn or stick, especially on a grill. For the best results in your Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe, aim for about 6–7 minutes per side before flipping.
What does Hawaiian barbecue taste like?
Hawaiian barbecue blends sweet, savory, and tangy flavors into one mouthwatering bite. You’ll taste hints of pineapple, ginger, garlic, and soy—plus that rich char if you grill it. A good Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe balances natural fruitiness with umami depth, often finished with a sticky glaze or grilled pineapple.
Is Hawaiian BBQ chicken healthy?
Yes, it can be! When you make your Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe at home, you control the ingredients. Use skinless chicken breasts or thighs, low-sugar marinades, and fresh produce to keep it lean. Grilling also reduces added fats, making it a heartier but health-conscious choice compared to fried or breaded options.
What to pair with Hawaiian BBQ chicken?
This chicken goes great with coconut rice, grilled pineapple, or fresh slaw. If you want comfort food-style sides, try slow cooker corn or scalloped potatoes. For lighter meals, banana chips, fruit skewers, or a citrus salad bring out the island flavor of your Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe.
Welcome to Yumi Meals!
I’m Yumi, and this space is a heartfelt extension of my lifelong love for cooking. What began in my grandmother’s kitchen has become a journey of sharing soulful, approachable recipes that celebrate connection, tradition, and creativity. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, I hope Yumi Meals brings warmth and inspiration to your table.
