Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Name: Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts; ¼ cup oil; 1 cup barbecue sauce; 1 (15-ounce) can pineapple slices; Pineapple juice from can; 2 teaspoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Published: June 28, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of barbecue sauce, pineapple, and soy sauce delivers a sweet and savory flavor that is truly irresistible.
Impressive Presentation: Serving the chicken over grilled pineapple not only enhances the taste but also makes for a beautiful dish that will wow your guests.
Versatile Pairings: This dish pairs well with various sides like rice, salads, or grilled vegetables, allowing you to customize your meal.
Healthy Option: With lean chicken and fresh ingredients, this recipe provides a delicious yet nutritious meal option.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Large resealable bag
Medium-sized bowl
Whisk
Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: A good quality grill ensures even cooking and adds that smoky flavor to your chicken.
Large resealable bag: Perfect for marinating the chicken, it keeps everything contained and minimizes mess.
Whisk: Essential for combining marinade ingredients thoroughly to ensure maximum flavor in every bite.
Tongs: Useful for flipping the chicken on the grill without piercing it, which helps retain juiciness.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
¼ cup oil
1 cup barbecue sauce

For the Pineapple

1 (15-ounce) can pineapple slices
Pineapple juice from can

For Marinade

2 teaspoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon minced garlic

For Garnish

Chopped fresh cilantro

How to Make Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large resealable bag, combine 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness, with ¼ cup oil.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 1 cup barbecue sauce, pineapple juice from can, 2 teaspoons soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon minced garlic.
Pour half of this mixture into the bag with the chicken. Seal it tightly and chill for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. Reserve the remaining sauce.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Grease and preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the bag and discard the marinade.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and is no longer pink in the center.

Step 4: Grill the Pineapple Slices

While grilling the chicken, place 1 (15-ounce) can pineapple slices on the grill.
Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they are heated through and begin to char slightly.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

Once cooked, brush the grilled chicken with reserved barbecue sauce.
Top with chopped fresh cilantro for garnish.
Serve immediately alongside grilled pineapple slices for a colorful presentation!

How to Serve Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken offers a delightful mix of flavors that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

On a Bed of Rice

Serve the chicken over steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a filling meal that absorbs the delicious barbecue flavors.

With Grilled Vegetables

Pair with grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and onions to add color and nutrition to your plate while complementing the chicken’s sweetness.

In Tacos

Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in soft tortillas with fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime for a fun twist.

With Fresh Salad

Create a vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chicken.

As a Sandwich

Slice the chicken and serve it on a toasted bun with coleslaw and extra barbecue sauce for a tasty sandwich option.

Topped with Fresh Pineapple Salsa

Add diced pineapple, red onion, and jalapeño for a refreshing salsa that enhances the tropical flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Achieving perfectly grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is easy with just a few tips. Follow these guidelines to enhance your grilling experience.

Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for better flavor and texture.
Marinate Longer: For maximum taste, let your chicken marinate overnight. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes.
Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the chicken. This helps create beautiful grill marks and prevents sticking.
Use Meat Thermometer: Always check for doneness by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This helps retain juices for tender meat.
Experiment with Marinade: Feel free to adjust the marinade ingredients according to your taste preferences—add spices or switch up the sauce!

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Complementing your Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken with delicious side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great options:

Coconut Rice
A creamy coconut-infused rice that pairs perfectly with the sweet flavors of the chicken.
Coleslaw
A crisp coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of grilled meats.
Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn grilled until tender makes for a classic side that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Sweet Potato Fries
Crispy sweet potato fries provide a delightful contrast to savory BBQ chicken while adding a nutritious twist.
Grilled Asparagus
Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil offer an elegant touch to your meal.
Baked Beans
Sweet baked beans add heartiness and complement barbecue dishes beautifully.
Garlic Bread
Toasted garlic bread can soak up any leftover sauce while adding flavor and texture to your plate.
Fruit Salad
A refreshing fruit salad made from seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate after savoring rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

Skipping the Marinade: Marinating chicken enhances flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step; allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or longer for best results.
Not Preheating the Grill: A properly preheated grill ensures even cooking. Always preheat your grill before adding the chicken to prevent sticking and achieve those perfect grill marks.
Using Low-Quality Barbecue Sauce: The sauce is crucial for flavor. Choose a high-quality barbecue sauce that complements the Hawaiian elements, or consider making your own for a fresh taste.
Ignoring Temperature Guidelines: Cooking chicken to the proper internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit is vital for safety. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is fully cooked.
Overcooking the Pineapple: Pineapple can burn quickly on the grill. Watch it closely and remove it as soon as it’s heated through and slightly charred, typically around 2-3 minutes per side.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Timeframe: Store Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Container: Use an airtight container to keep the chicken fresh.

Freezing Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Timeframe: Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Container: Place in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth. Heat chicken covered for about 5-10 minutes until warmed, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use skin-on chicken for Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken?

Using skin-on chicken can work but may require adjustments in cooking time. Skin-on chicken takes longer to cook thoroughly compared to boneless options.

What sides go well with Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a lighter option.

How do I customize my Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken?

Feel free to add different spices to your marinade or try other fruits like mango or peaches alongside pineapple. This adds variety while keeping that tropical flair!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and grill it just before serving for maximum freshness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is an easy yet impressive dish that’s bursting with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether served at a family dinner or summer barbecue, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table! Give it a try today!

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