Golden grill marks on juicy chicken, rich barbecue glaze, and sweet pineapple slices—that’s the vibrant story told by Hawaiian BBQ Chicken. This dish is a tropical escape on a plate, combining the smoky depth of traditional BBQ with the bright, fruity sweetness of island ingredients. It’s a perfect centerpiece for summer dinners, backyard gatherings, or when you just need to feel like you’re on a beach, even from your kitchen table.

What sets this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken apart is the balance of savory and sweet. The chicken is marinated in a blend of soy sauce, garlic, and pineapple juice, then grilled to perfection and brushed with a bold barbecue sauce infused with a hint of brown sugar and ginger. Each bite delivers an irresistible contrast—charred edges, tender meat, and bursts of caramelized pineapple that make this meal unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Sweet & Smoky Perfection: Combines the best of island-inspired ingredients with bold barbecue flair.
Perfect for Grilling Season: This recipe shines when made on an outdoor grill, but works just as well on an indoor grill pan.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate the chicken in advance and save time on busy days.
Customizable: Add heat with chili flakes or keep it mild and sweet for the whole family.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s visually stunning and deliciously satisfying—ideal for serving guests or making weekday dinners feel special.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Getting everything ready is essential to the success of your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken. Here’s what you need in terms of tools and why each one matters:

Grill or Grill Pan: The heart of this recipe is the grilled flavor. A gas or charcoal grill is perfect for that smoky char, but a stovetop grill pan works great indoors.
Mixing Bowls: Use one large bowl for marinating the chicken—glass or stainless steel are best to avoid reacting with acidic pineapple juice.
Tongs: Essential for flipping the chicken without piercing it and losing those delicious juices.
Basting Brush: To apply the BBQ sauce evenly while grilling. This ensures the glaze caramelizes beautifully.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the pineapple rings and prepping green onions or herbs for garnish.
Meat Thermometer (optional but helpful): Guarantees your chicken is cooked through safely to 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
Aluminum Foil or Grill Mat: Useful if you’re grilling delicate pineapple slices or want to avoid mess.

Having the right tools helps streamline the process and ensures better cooking results every time.

Preparation Tips

Marinate Longer for More Flavor: While 30 minutes is fine in a rush, letting the chicken sit in the marinade for 2–4 hours really locks in flavor.
Use Fresh Pineapple: It brings better texture and sweetness than canned, especially when grilled.
Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Space the chicken apart to allow even cooking and beautiful grill marks.
Room Temp Chicken: Let the marinated chicken sit out for 15 minutes before grilling to ensure it cooks evenly.
Reserve Marinade with Caution: If you want to baste with marinade, boil it first to kill any bacteria.

These preparation pointers help set the stage for a flawless grilling session, leading to juicy, flavorful chicken that bursts with island character.

Ingredients for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this tropical-inspired barbecue favorite. Be sure to gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

For the Marinade:

1/2 cup pineapple juice – Adds natural sweetness and tenderizes the chicken.
1/3 cup soy sauce – Brings savory umami balance to the sweetness.
2 tablespoons brown sugar – Enhances the caramelization on the grill.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar – Offers a gentle tang to brighten the marinade.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Gives depth and warmth.
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger – Adds a zesty, aromatic kick.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps carry the flavors and keeps the chicken moist.

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – You can also use thighs if preferred; they’re juicier and forgiving on the grill.

For Grilling and Garnish:

4–6 pineapple rings (fresh preferred) – Grilled pineapple offers sweet, smoky contrast.
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade) – Look for one with a hint of sweetness to complement the dish.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley – Optional, for garnish.
2 tablespoons chopped green onions – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

This ingredient list captures the essence of Hawaiian BBQ—sweet, tangy, savory, and completely mouthwatering.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, minced garlic, ginger, and olive oil. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2–4 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill or Grill Pan

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to become ashy before cooking. Lightly oil the grill grates or your grill pan to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until nicely charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid pressing down on the chicken to keep the juices intact.

Step 4: Baste with BBQ Sauce

During the final few minutes of grilling, brush each piece of chicken generously with BBQ sauce. Flip and repeat on the other side. Allow the sauce to caramelize slightly without burning—watch closely.

Step 5: Grill the Pineapple

Place the pineapple rings on the grill for 2–3 minutes per side until they develop grill marks and a bit of char. This enhances their sweetness and gives a smoky touch.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Transfer the grilled chicken to a serving plate. Add the grilled pineapple on the side or on top. Drizzle with a bit more warm BBQ sauce if desired. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor.

Notes

Chicken Cut Options: While chicken breasts are lean and quick-cooking, boneless thighs are an excellent alternative if you prefer richer flavor and more moisture.
Marinade Reuse Tip: Never use leftover marinade from raw chicken as a sauce unless it’s boiled for several minutes to eliminate bacteria.
BBQ Sauce Style: A sweet and tangy BBQ sauce works best here. You can even stir a little pineapple juice into store-bought sauce to tailor the flavor to this dish.
Indoor Cooking Option: Don’t have a grill? You can use a cast iron grill pan or even bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, finishing with a quick broil for a charred look.
Meal Prep Friendly: This chicken can be marinated, grilled, and refrigerated for up to 3 days—perfect for prepping meals ahead of time.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Marination: This step is crucial for infusing flavor and tenderizing the chicken. Don’t cut it short unless you’re really pressed for time.
Grilling Cold Chicken: Letting the chicken come to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before grilling ensures even cooking.
Overcrowding the Grill: Give each piece space. Crowding causes steaming instead of searing.
Too Much Sauce Too Soon: Adding BBQ sauce too early can result in burnt sugar and bitterness. Always apply in the final minutes of grilling.
Not Checking Temperature: Guessing leads to undercooked or dry chicken. Use a meat thermometer if available.
Neglecting Pineapple: Fresh, lightly grilled pineapple isn’t just a garnish—it completes the dish. Don’t skip it!
Forgetting Rest Time: Let the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Ignoring Grill Cleaning: A dirty grill can lead to sticking and unpleasant flavors. Preheat and scrape it clean before starting.

What to Serve With Hawaiian BBQ Chicken?

To turn your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken into a full tropical-inspired meal, pair it with sides that complement its sweet and savory flavors. Whether you’re throwing a backyard cookout or enjoying a weeknight dinner, these options bring balance, texture, and variety to the plate.

8 Recommended Sides:

Coconut Rice
Fragrant jasmine rice cooked with coconut milk creates a creamy, slightly sweet base that pairs beautifully with the BBQ chicken.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Brushed with lime butter and sprinkled with sea salt, grilled corn adds smoky crunch and freshness.
Macaroni Salad (Hawaiian Style)
Creamy and tangy with a touch of sweetness, this chilled pasta salad is a traditional island favorite.
Tropical Fruit Salad
A colorful mix of mango, papaya, pineapple, and kiwi drizzled with lime juice and mint—a refreshing contrast to the savory main.
Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
Soft, slightly sweet rolls are perfect for mopping up extra BBQ sauce or making mini chicken sliders.
Garlic Green Beans
Sautéed with olive oil and garlic, these offer a simple, savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the chicken.
Baked Sweet Potatoes or Sweet Potato Fries
Earthy and sweet, these are a healthier alternative to regular fries and complement the tropical theme.
Cucumber Mango Slaw
Crisp, vibrant, and a little tangy, this slaw adds crunch and color, making the plate pop both visually and flavor-wise.

Storage Instructions

Properly storing your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken ensures it stays fresh and flavorful for leftovers or meal prep.

Refrigeration: Allow the chicken to cool completely, then place in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips: Warm gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of water or BBQ sauce to retain moisture. You can also microwave on medium power in 30-second bursts, turning occasionally.
Do Not Freeze Pineapple Garnish: Grilled pineapple does not freeze well—it becomes mushy when thawed. Add fresh pineapple after reheating if desired.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

This nutritional breakdown is for one serving (based on 4 servings total) and may vary depending on the BBQ sauce and exact portion sizes used:

Calories: 340 kcal
Protein: 32g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugars: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 820mg
Cholesterol: 85mg

This dish is rich in protein, slightly sweet from the pineapple and sauce, and balanced by lean meat and fresh ingredients. For a lower-sugar version, use a reduced-sugar BBQ sauce and serve with veggies instead of sweet sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving on the grill. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a few minutes longer than breasts.

2. What’s the best BBQ sauce for this recipe?

A sweet and tangy sauce works best—look for one with notes of honey, molasses, or brown sugar. You can also add a splash of pineapple juice to your favorite brand to customize it.

3. Can I make this in the oven instead of a grill?

Yes! Bake the marinated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, then broil for 2–3 minutes to caramelize the BBQ sauce and mimic a grilled texture.

4. How long should I marinate the chicken?

Ideally, marinate for 2–4 hours. If you’re in a hurry, 30 minutes will work, but the flavor won’t be as deep. Avoid marinating for more than 8 hours to prevent the meat from becoming mushy.

5. Is this recipe spicy?

No, it’s naturally sweet and savory. To add heat, mix chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the BBQ sauce or marinade.

6. Can I prepare this ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! Marinate the chicken the day before, grill it the day of, and keep it warm in a low oven or covered on a serving platter.

7. What’s a good substitute for pineapple juice?

Orange juice or mango juice can work in a pinch, though the flavor will shift slightly. Add a teaspoon of vinegar or lime juice to balance the sweetness.

8. How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook it—use a meat thermometer to ensure it hits 165°F (74°C). Also, avoid pressing the chicken down while grilling, which can squeeze out moisture.

Conclusion

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and vibrant textures that bring a touch of island life to your plate. With its perfect harmony of sweet pineapple, savory marinade, and smoky char, this dish is bound to become a favorite whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just craving something a little special on a weeknight.

The steps are simple, the ingredients are accessible, and the flavor is unforgettable. Serve it with tropical sides, enjoy it as leftovers, or pair it with your favorite cocktails—the versatility is just as impressive as the taste.