How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken: A Flavorful Recipe for Your Next Feast
A tender, juicy chicken dish smothered in a sweet and tangy Hawaiian BBQ sauce. This crowd-pleasing recipe offers an irresistible taste of the islands, perfect for hosting a luau, preparing a quick family dinner, or any festive feast.
Equipment
- 1 Grill, Stovetop Skillet, or Oven For cooking the chicken
- 1 Resealable Bag or Shallow Dish For marinating the chicken
- 1 Bowl For whisking the marinade ingredients
- 1 Whisk For mixing the sauce ingredients
- 1 Basting Brush For brushing additional marinade during cooking
- 1 Meat thermometer To ensure internal temperature reaches 165° F
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts for a leaner option)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice Use fresh for a brighter flavor
- 1/4 cup soy sauce low-sodium recommended
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
- Optional Sesame seeds For garnish
- Optional chopped green onions For garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
- Place the chicken (thighs or breasts) in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it.
- Seal the bag/dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
- Preheat your grill, stovetop skillet, or oven to medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side.
- Brush additional marinade during cooking for extra flavor.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving.
- Pair with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.