This Easy Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is packed with sweet and tangy flavors that will make your taste buds dance! Juicy chicken slathered in a delicious homemade BBQ sauce—you’ll love it!
I often make this dish for family gatherings, and it’s always a hit! Serve it with some rice and fresh pineapple, and you’re in for a tropical feast right at home! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy texture. If you prefer, chicken breasts work too, but they can be drier.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives the best flavor, but canned pineapple works in a pinch. Just drain it well before grilling!
Rice: White rice is a classic base for this dish, but you could use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
Honey/Brown Sugar: Both sweeteners work nicely in the BBQ sauce. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, try a sugar substitute like agave syrup.
How Do You Make the BBQ Sauce Extra Flavorful?
To elevate your BBQ sauce, slow-cook it to deepen the flavors. Mixing in fresh ingredients like garlic and ginger adds a wonderful aroma. The key is to simmer until thickened; it will coat the chicken beautifully!
- Combine all sauce ingredients in a saucepan.
- Simmer over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
What’s the Best Way to Grill the Pineapple?
Grilling pineapple enhances its sweetness and adds a lovely char. Make sure your grill pan is hot to prevent sticking. Flip the rings once golden to achieve that perfect caramelization!
- Preheat the pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook each pineapple slice for 2-3 minutes until grill marks appear.
- Don’t overcook; aim for a nice golden color!
With these tips, your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken will be bursting with flavor! Enjoy making this delightful dish!
Easy Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Toppings:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 fresh pineapple, sliced into rings
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
For the Hawaiian BBQ Sauce:
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from fresh or canned pineapple)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and tasty option for dinner. Just a little marinating time (30 minutes to 2 hours) helps to infuse incredible flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the BBQ Sauce:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), ketchup, vinegar, minced garlic, ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare Chicken:
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place them in a bowl or resealable bag and pour half of the BBQ sauce over the chicken. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for a deeper flavor.
3. Cook Pineapple:
In a grill pan or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the pineapple rings and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they become caramelized and golden brown. Remove the rings from the pan and set them aside.
4. Cook Chicken:
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil if needed. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the marinade) and place the chicken thighs in the pan. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, brushing them occasionally with the remaining BBQ sauce until the chicken is cooked through and nicely glazed.
5. Assemble the Bowl:
In serving bowls, place a scoop of cooked rice. Top each bowl with Hawaiian BBQ chicken, grilled pineapple slices, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. For some extra heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes if you like.
6. Serve:
Serve immediately and savor the delicious taste of Hawaii! This dish is perfect for bringing tropical vibes to your dinner table!
Enjoy your meal with family and friends—it’s sure to be a favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs! Just keep in mind that breasts might cook a little faster and can dry out, so monitor their cooking time closely, aiming for about 5-6 minutes per side.
Can I Make the BBQ Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the BBQ sauce a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stove before using to melt any thickness that might have developed!
How Do I Store Leftover Hawaiian BBQ Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through to maintain moisture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Bowl?
Yes! Feel free to add other grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even a side of coleslaw for extra crunch and nutrition. It’s a great way to customize your meal!
These FAQs should help you navigate the recipe and enjoy a delicious Hawaiian BBQ Chicken dinner!
