Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Name: Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 2-5 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs; 3/4 cups low-sodium soy sauce; 3/4 cups ketchup; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1/3 cup chicken broth; 2 1/2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; Fresh parsley for garnish

Published: June 4, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful Marinade: The combination of ingredients creates a rich and delicious flavor that enhances the chicken.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you can prepare this dish without hassle.
Quick Grilling: Grill the chicken in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice or salad for a complete meal that fits any occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves BBQ chicken! It’s sure to impress friends and family alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Grill
Plastic food wrap
Food brush
Airtight container

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the marinade ingredients thoroughly.
Grill: Provides that smoky flavor while cooking the chicken quickly.
Plastic food wrap: Helps to ensure the chicken marinates properly by sealing in flavor.
Food brush: Ideal for applying reserved marinade while grilling for added flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2-5 lb Chicken thighs (boneless skinless)
3/4 cups Soy sauce (low-sodium)
3/4 cups Ketchup
1 cup Brown sugar (packed)
1/3 cup Chicken broth
2 1/2 teaspoons Fresh Ginger (grated)
2 teaspoons Garlic (minced)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, chicken broth, ginger, and garlic. Mix well until all ingredients are blended smoothly. Reserve 1 cup of this marinade in an airtight container and refrigerate it for later use.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the mixing bowl with the marinade. Ensure they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic food wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for optimal flavor.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill over medium heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes or until fully cooked through. While grilling, use a food brush to apply the reserved marinade to enhance flavor.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove chicken from the grill. Serve hot with rice and sliced avocados on the side. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch. Enjoy your delicious Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken!

How to Serve Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Serving the Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe can elevate your meal experience. This dish combines robust flavors and tender chicken, making it perfect for various occasions.

With Rice

Steamed White Rice: The classic choice that absorbs the delicious BBQ sauce.
Coconut Rice: Add a tropical twist with creamy coconut flavor to complement the chicken.

With Vegetables

Grilled Vegetables: A colorful mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and onions adds freshness to your plate.
Coleslaw: A crunchy side that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken, adding texture and zest.

As Tacos

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos: Shred the grilled chicken and serve in tortillas with pico de gallo and avocado for a fun twist.

With Salads

Tropical Fruit Salad: Combine pineapple, mango, and kiwi for a refreshing side that balances savory flavors.
Green Salad: A light mixed greens salad drizzled with citrus dressing offers a crisp contrast.

How to Perfect Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

To make sure your Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Bold Marinate Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor absorption.
Bold Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill properly to ensure even cooking and great char marks.
Bold Basting Technique: Regularly brush the reserved marinade on the chicken while grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.
Bold Chicken Quality: Use high-quality boneless skinless thighs for better texture and juiciness.
Bold Rest Period: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps retain juices.

Best Side Dishes for Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Pairing sides with your Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Fried Rice: A savory fried rice with peas and carrots is a hearty option that complements the barbecue flavors.
Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad adds a rich texture that pairs well with grilled chicken.
Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a crispy side that balances well with tender meat.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter offers sweetness that complements the tangy BBQ sauce.
Pineapple Salsa: Fresh pineapple salsa brings brightness and acidity, enhancing each bite of chicken.
Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds crunch and is perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating chicken can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of when making the Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe.

Skipping the marinating time: Marinating for a shorter time may result in less flavor. Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 6 hours or overnight for the best taste.
Using high-sodium soy sauce: High-sodium soy sauce can overpower the dish. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to maintain a balanced flavor profile.
Not reserving enough marinade: Forgetting to reserve marinade for basting can lead to dry chicken. Always set aside some marinade before adding the chicken.
Grilling at too high a temperature: Cooking on very high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Aim for medium heat and check internal temperatures regularly.
Ignoring food safety practices: Using the same marinade that held raw chicken can cause contamination. Always use separate utensils and containers for cooked food.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Freeze in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
The chicken can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and reheat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little water or broth, and warm the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate your chicken thighs for at least 6 hours or overnight if possible. This ensures maximum flavor infusion.

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes! While thighs work best due to their juiciness, you can also use boneless skinless breasts. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What side dishes pair well with Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe?

This dish goes wonderfully with rice, grilled vegetables, or fresh salad. Feel free to mix and match according to your preferences!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and store it in the refrigerator overnight or freeze it before grilling.

Final Thoughts

The Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile enough for different occasions. You can customize it by adding your favorite spices or sides. Give it a try; it’s sure to wow your guests!

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