Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

I recently discovered a recipe that transforms simple chicken into a flavorful island escape. The marinade, bursting with soy, pineapple, and ginger, infuses every bite with a delightful zing. I love how these grilled chicken recipes bring a hint of paradise to my meal, inviting me to explore a whole new realm of flavor.

I recently discovered this Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe that takes me straight to paradise. I start with 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and marinate them in a blend of 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/2 cup pineapple juice, and 2 tablespoons of freshly grated ginger.

Add 3 garlic cloves, minced, into the mix along with 1/4 cup brown sugar, a tablespoon of rice vinegar, and a tablespoon of sesame oil. A pinch of salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper helps to balance all the flavors.

I’ve been trying out different marinated chicken recipes and this one really stands out among other BBQ chicken recipes I have seen in various chicken recipes videos. The hints of tropical sweetness along with the savory marinade make this dish perfect whether eaten with rice or paired with grilled pineapple.

If you love Hawaiian BBQ or grilled chicken recipes, this one is definitely a must-try.

Why I Like this Recipe

1. I really love how the marinade infuses so many flavors into the chicken. The mix of soy sauce, pineapple juice, ginger and garlic makes every bite taste bold and a bit tangy, which is something i always look for in a good recipe.

2. I appreciate how simple it is to prepare this dish. Even though you gotta marinate the chicken for a bit, the steps are straightforward and not too complicated, so i never feel overwhelmed.

3. I dig the way grilling gives it that perfect charred and crispy skin. It creates a fun texture contrast with the juicy meat inside that i find super satisfying.

4. I enjoy how versatile this recipe is. I can serve it with rice, salad, or even some grilled pineapple, which makes it a great option whether im cooking for myself or having friends over.

Ingredients

• Chicken Thighs: Provide a great source of protein and are packed with flavor.

  They are a bit fatty which makes them juicy and perfect for BBQ.

• Soy Sauce: Adds a salty, savory taste that deepens the overall flavor.

  It also contributes a touch of umami with every bite.

• Pineapple Juice: Brings a sweet and tangy twist to the marinade.

  It balances the salty and savory notes for a tasty kick.

• Ginger & Garlic: These staples contribute a spicy, aromatic flavor that makes each bite exciting.

  They add a natural boost to the dish.

• Brown Sugar: Provides a subtle sweetness that works amazingly with the tangy pineapple juice for a well rounded flavor.

Ingredient Quantities

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Optional: Sesame seeds for garnish

How to Make this

1. In a large bowl, mix the soy sauce, pineapple juice, freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper really well until the sugar is kinda dissolved.

2. Add the 8 chicken thighs into the bowl making sure they’re all coated in the marinade. Cover it up and let it chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or even overnight if you got the time.

3. When you’re ready, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

4. Take the chicken out of the marinade letting the extra liquid drip off. If you like basting, save that marinade.

5. Lightly oil the grill grates so the chicken doesn’t stick, then place the thighs on the grill skin-side down.

6. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, turning them once, until you get a nice char and they’re cooked through.

7. Optionally, baste with the reserved marinade while grilling to boost the flavor even more.

8. Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F before you take it off the grill.

9. Remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes so the juices can settle.

10. Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top if you like them, then serve up with rice, salad, or even some grilled pineapple for a taste of paradise. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. A large mixing bowl
2. Measuring cups and spoons
3. A grater for the ginger
4. A knife and cutting board for the garlic (and optional green onions)
5. A whisk or spoon to mix the marinade
6. A grill (or grill pan)
7. Tongs for turning the chicken
8. A basting brush (optional)
9. A meat thermometer
10. A plate or tray to let the chicken rest

FAQ

Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Instead of soy sauce you can use coconut aminos which is a bit sweeter and less salty.
• If you dont have pineapple juice try orange juice or even a mix of orange juice and a little apple juice.
• No fresh ginger? Use about ½ teaspoon of dried ginger powder instead (it wont have exactly the same flavor, but it’ll do).
• Rice vinegar can be swapped with apple cider vinegar in an equal amount.

Pro Tips

1. If you can, let the chicken sit in the marinade overnight so it really soaks in all that flavor – marinating for just a few hours is cool, but longer really makes a difference.
2. When you take the chicken off the grill, let it rest for a few mins, because if you cut it right away, you might lose all its juicy goodness.
3. Save some of that extra marinade to baste the chicken while it’s on the grill; just be sure to let it cook down a bit so you dont risk any bacteria.
4. Make sure to preheat your grill well; a hot grill helps you get a nice char and keeps the chicken from sticking.