Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

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This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is a summer favorite that brings together the irresistible sweetness of pineapple with the savory depth of smoky barbecue sauce. Each bite of the tender grilled chicken bursts with tropical flavor, making it perfect for backyard cookouts, weeknight dinners, or even meal prep lunches. The caramelized edges and juicy interior create a harmony that’s hard to beat.

What makes this dish stand out is its simplicity paired with bold flavors. A quick marinade does all the heavy lifting, infusing the meat with hints of garlic, soy, and ginger before it’s charred to perfection. Paired with grilled pineapple slices, this recipe feels like a mini island getaway with every forkful.

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Ingredients for this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can pineapple rings (or fresh pineapple slices)
• Fresh chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish

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Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground ginger, olive oil, and black pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. While the grill heats, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Reserve a small amount of the marinade for basting (boil it first if you plan to use it).

Step 3: Grill the Chicken and Pineapple

Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). During the last few minutes, brush the chicken with the reserved marinade.

At the same time, add the pineapple slices to the grill. Grill them for 2-3 minutes per side until they show nice char marks.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Transfer the grilled chicken and pineapple to a plate. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or green onions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 1 hour is recommended, but overnight will give you the most flavor.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs are juicier and work well with this recipe, but adjust the cooking time as needed.

What type of barbecue sauce is best?

A smoky, slightly sweet barbecue sauce works best to complement the pineapple. You can also use a spicy version for more kick.

Can I cook this chicken indoors?

Yes! A grill pan or even a skillet on the stove works fine. Just make sure you still get some char and that the internal temp hits 165°F.

Is fresh pineapple better than canned?

Fresh pineapple brings a brighter flavor and texture, but canned works perfectly for convenience.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Try coconut rice, grilled vegetables, or a light coleslaw to keep the tropical theme going.

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