This Hawaiian BBQ chicken is a sweet and tangy treat that’s a hit at any gathering! Juicy chicken combined with a tasty BBQ sauce makes this dish hard to resist.
I love making this on sunny days—you just marinate, grill, and enjoy! The smoky flavor combined with the sweetness is basically summer on a plate. Yum! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender while grilling. If you prefer white meat, chicken breasts work too, but watch cooking time! You could even try tofu for a vegetarian option.
Pineapple Juice: This adds a lovely sweetness and tang. If you don’t have it, orange juice or a mix of lemon and sugar can give a similar effect. Just keep in mind, it might change the flavor slightly.
Soy Sauce: This gives a great umami kick. If you’re watching your sodium, low-sodium soy sauce is a perfect swap. For a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos.
Brown Sugar: Using brown sugar gives depth and that caramelized taste. You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh is best, but if you have powdered versions, use 1/8 teaspoon of each. For less prep, pre-minced garlic in jars works fine too!
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken?
Marinating chicken is key to unlocking those rich flavors. Here are some helpful tips:
- Mix your marinade well to ensure the sugar dissolves completely for even flavor.
- Use a resealable bag or container for marinating, making sure the liquid covers the chicken fully.
- Let it sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour, but ideally, 4-6 hours enhances the flavor.
- If time is tight, even a quick 30 minutes will still add some flavor.
A well-marbled chicken helps absorb the marinade better, so don’t skip this step! Enjoy your BBQ chicken with the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors! 🍍🍗
Easy Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 avocado, sliced (for serving)
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (for serving)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
- Optional: 2 tbsp hoisin sauce or teriyaki sauce for extra glaze
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare plus at least 1 hour of marinating time in the fridge. Add about 15 minutes for grilling. So, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes total, with the best results coming from letting the chicken marinate for longer if you have the time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved and everything is nicely mixed together. This marinade is the heart of the dish, so make sure it’s flavorful!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring all the pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but ideally 4-6 hours for deeper flavor infusion.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid (but keep the marinade!). Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). As the chicken grills, brush it occasionally with the reserved marinade to create a sticky glaze that enhances those sweet flavors.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into strips. To serve, place the grilled chicken strips over a bed of cooked jasmine rice, adding sliced avocado on the side. Drizzle a little reserved marinade or extra BBQ sauce on top for more flavor.
5. Final Touches:
Garnish your dish with chopped fresh cilantro and optionally add lime wedges for a zesty finish. This sweet, smoky, and tangy Hawaiian BBQ chicken will surely impress your family and friends!
Enjoy your delightful Hawaiian BBQ chicken feast! 🍍🍗
FAQ: Easy Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a great substitute. Just be aware they may cook faster, so check the internal temperature around 4-5 minutes per side to avoid drying them out.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to help keep the chicken moist.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor even more! Just be cautious with the acidity in the marinade; if you’re using the marinade for more than 12 hours, consider reducing the soy sauce slightly to prevent the chicken from becoming too salty.
What Can I Use Instead of Pineapple Juice?
If you don’t have pineapple juice, try using orange juice or a mix of lemon juice and honey for a similar sweet and tangy flavor. Each alternative will slightly change the taste, but they’ll still be delicious!
