Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Name: Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts; ¼ cup oil; 1 cup barbecue sauce; 2 teaspoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 (15-ounce) can pineapple slices

Published: July 19, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 40 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Amazing Flavor: The combination of barbecue sauce and pineapple creates an irresistible sweet and savory taste.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or slice it for sandwiches or salads.
Colorful Presentation: Grilling pineapple alongside the chicken adds visual appeal to your plate.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and lower in carbs, this dish fits well into many diets.

Tools and Preparation

To make Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment allows for efficient cooking and enhances the overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Large resealable plastic bag
Medium-sized mixing bowl
Whisk
Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on your chicken and pineapple.
Large resealable plastic bag: Makes marinating easy and reduces mess while ensuring even coverage of flavors.
Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
¼ cup oil
1 cup barbecue sauce
2 teaspoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon minced garlic

For the Pineapple

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

For Garnish

Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

How to Make Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large resealable bag, combine the chicken breasts, oil, and half of the marinade mixture made from whisking together the barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
Seal the bag tightly and chill for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. Remember to reserve the remaining marinade for later use.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Grease your outdoor grill and preheat it to medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the bag, discarding the marinade before placing it on the grill.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Grill each piece of chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4: Grill the Pineapple Slices

While grilling chicken, place pineapple slices on the grill next to it.
Grill for approximately 2-3 minutes until they are heated through and begin to char slightly.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once cooked, brush your grilled chicken with reserved barbecue sauce.
Top with chopped fresh cilantro for garnish before serving alongside grilled pineapple slices. Enjoy this flavorful Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken!

How to Serve Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Serving it creatively can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fun serving suggestions to make your meal memorable.

On a Bed of Grilled Pineapple

Serve the chicken atop grilled pineapple slices for a tropical touch. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the savory flavors of the chicken beautifully.

With Fresh Cilantro Garnish

Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the dish to add a burst of color and freshness. This herb enhances the overall flavor profile.

Alongside Coconut Rice

Pair the chicken with coconut rice for an extra layer of tropical flavor. The creaminess of coconut rice balances the tangy barbecue sauce.

In Tacos

Shred leftover chicken and use it as a filling for soft tortillas. Top with cabbage and drizzle more barbecue sauce for a delicious taco twist.

How to Perfect Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

To achieve perfectly grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken, consider these essential tips. They will help you enhance flavor and ensure juicy, tender results.

Pound the Chicken Evenly: This ensures that all parts cook at the same rate, preventing any undercooked or overcooked sections.
Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if possible. The longer it sits in the marinade, the better it tastes.
Preheat Your Grill Properly: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve nice grill marks and prevents sticking.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption without drying it out.
Let It Rest: After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture and makes each bite juicier.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Pairing side dishes with grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken can enhance your meal’s appeal and balance flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the barbecue sauce.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter is a classic side that complements summer flavors beautifully.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and citrus can provide a healthy contrast to richer dishes.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover barbecue sauce from your plate.
Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans pair well with grilled meats, adding depth to your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables brings color and nutrition to your plate while balancing flavors nicely.
Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers comfort and pairs well with grilled dishes, making it a crowd favorite.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of savory chicken, enhancing your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.

Skipping the marinating step: Marinating enhances flavor. Always allow your chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for the best taste.
Not preheating the grill: A cold grill can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it.
Using low-quality barbecue sauce: The barbecue sauce is key to your dish’s flavor. Choose a quality sauce that complements your grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken.
Ignoring internal temperature: Undercooked chicken can be unsafe. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Overcrowding the grill: This can lower the grill’s temperature and lead to steaming rather than grilling. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Containers: Use airtight containers or resealable bags for best results.

Freezing Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Duration: You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months.
Containers: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag or container.

Reheating Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until hot, usually around 2-3 minutes.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth and heat the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What goes well with Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken?

Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken pairs well with rice, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. Adding grilled vegetables can also enhance the meal.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can substitute pork or tofu for a different twist on this flavorful dish.

How do I make my own barbecue sauce?

To make homemade barbecue sauce, combine ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, and spices like garlic powder and paprika. Adjust ingredients according to your taste preferences.

What is the best way to serve Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken?

Serve it over grilled pineapple for an impressive presentation. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor and color!

Final Thoughts

Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor that delights everyone at the table. This dish is versatile; consider customizing it with different marinades or side dishes that suit your taste. Whether it’s a family dinner or a summer cookout, this recipe is sure to impress!

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