Name: Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 small pineapple (fresh or canned); ¼ cup pineapple juice; ¼ cup olive oil; 3 tbsp soy sauce; ½ cup BBQ sauce (such as Sweet Baby Ray’s, or your favorite); ¼ cup brown sugar; 2 tsp minced garlic; 1 tsp ground black pepper; ½ tsp sea salt; ½ tsp paprika; Optional: chopped green onion for garnish

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Introduction to Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Ah, summer! The season that beckons us to fire up the grill and indulge in tempting flavors. If you’re like me, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken wafting through the air. This delightful dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with smoky BBQ sauce, creating a culinary paradise right in your backyard. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends at a weekend gathering. Trust me, whether you’re a culinary whiz or a beginner, this joyful recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

This Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken isn’t just a meal; it’s a slice of paradise! It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal time for maximum flavor. In just 45 minutes, you’ll savor a dish that bursts with tropical sweetness and smoky goodness. Plus, it’s versatile enough to please everyone at the table. Busy days won’t feel overwhelming when you have this delicious recipe at your fingertips. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Getting the right ingredients is the key to making this Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need to kick off your tropical cooking adventure:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, juicy and tender, perfect for soaking up flavors.
Pineapple: Fresh or canned, this sweet fruit adds that essential tropical vibe—a burst of summer in every bite.
Pineapple juice: Enhances the sweetness and tenderizes the chicken, making it succulent and divine.
Olive oil: Helps keep the chicken moist and adds richness to the marinade.
Soy sauce: A savory kick to balance the sweetness, it brings all the flavors together beautifully.
BBQ sauce: Use your favorite variety; a sweet and tangy sauce works wonders for this dish.
Brown sugar: Amplifies sweetness and caramelizes on the grill for a wonderful crust.
Minced garlic: A dash of bold flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the sauce.
Ground black pepper: Just a hint to add depth and warmth to the dish.
Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors, making each bite pop on your palate.
Paprika: Adds a lovely color and mild smokiness to the chicken.
Optional garnish: Chopped green onion brings freshness and a pop of color on top!

If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute chicken thighs for a richer taste, or use turkey breasts for a leaner option. Remember, life’s busy, and adapting recipes to what you have is half the fun! You’ll find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for your printing.

How to Make Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Ready to transform your kitchen into a tropical paradise? Let’s dive into the process of making this Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken! With each step, I’ll share delicious tips to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Prep the Pineapple

Start by prepping your pineapple. If you’re using fresh pineapple, slice off the skin and core it. Then, cut the fruit into thick slices or wedges for grilling. If canned pineapple is your go-to, drain it well. Either way, sweet, juicy pineapple will elevate your dish to a whole new level of yum!

Make the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, olive oil, soy sauce, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, black pepper, sea salt, and paprika. Stir everything together until you see a beautiful blend of flavors. It’s like a tropical hug for your chicken! Toss the chicken breasts and pineapple slices in the marinade, ensuring they’re generously coated. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This step is crucial; the longer you marinate, the more flavor your chicken absorbs!

Grill the Chicken

Once your grill is preheated to medium heat, spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place those marinated chicken breasts on the grill, giving them a gentle brush with more marinade. Close the lid and let them sizzle for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for golden char marks that say, “I’m ready for a feast!”

Flip and Continue Grilling

After 5 minutes, it’s time for a flip! Carefully turn the chicken over, baste them with more marinade, and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This ensures both sides get that delightful BBQ flavor. You’ll be amazed at the aroma wafting from your grill!

Add Pineapple

Now for the grand ingredient: the pineapple! If you’d like, flip the chicken once more for even grilling. Then, add the pineapple slices to the grill. Grill everything for another 5-10 minutes, flipping the pineapple halfway through until it’s caramelized. Your chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Moist and savory, your Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is almost ready!

Serve

Remove the chicken and pineapple from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken extra tender. Slice up that juicy goodness and serve it with your favorite sides or even in a wrap. I suggest pairing it with rice or fresh veggies—it’s like the island is on your plate!

Tips for Success

Marinate the chicken longer for a deeper flavor experience—up to 2 hours works wonders!
Always preheat your grill to ensure nice char marks and juicy chicken.
Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken hits 165°F for perfect doneness.
Brushing the chicken with marinade while grilling boosts flavor and moisture.
Don’t skip resting the chicken after grilling; it makes a big difference in texture!

Equipment Needed

Grill: A charcoal or gas grill works perfectly for this recipe, but you can use a grill pan on your stovetop as an alternative.
Mixing Bowl: A large bowl to combine all those delectable marinade ingredients.
Tongs: Essential for flipping chicken and pineapple without losing those mouthwatering juices.
Meat Thermometer: A handy tool to ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Variations of Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Spicy Kick: Add some sriracha or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a fiery twist that will spice things up!
Teriyaki Style: Swap the BBQ sauce for teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile that’s equally delicious.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with thick slices of firm tofu or portobello mushrooms for a meat-free alternative.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the marinade for an aromatic twist that brightens the dish.
Fruit Medley: Experiment with grilling other fruits like mango, peaches, or bell peppers to add a burst of flavor and color to your plate!

Serving Suggestions for Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Serve with fluffy white rice or coconut rice to complement the tropical flavors.
Pair with grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a colorful plate.
A refreshing fruit salad with mint makes a perfect side dish.
For drinks, try a light and fruity sangria or coconut water to enhance the island vibes.
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for a pop of color!

FAQs about Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Here are some common questions I’ve gathered about this delightful recipe. Let’s dive into the answers so you can grill with confidence!

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before marinating. Frozen chicken can sometimes lead to uneven cooking if not properly thawed first.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can whip up the marinade a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This can save you time and boosts flavor as it marries overnight.

What can I use instead of BBQ sauce?

If BBQ sauce isn’t your thing, you can opt for teriyaki sauce or a homemade marinade using soy sauce, honey, and ginger for a yummy alternative that works just as well!

How can I tell when the chicken is done cooking?

The best way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked is by using a meat thermometer. When it registers 165°F, your chicken is ready! This prevents any worries about undercooked poultry.

Can I grill the chicken and pineapple on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes! A stovetop grill pan works great if you can’t access an outdoor grill. Just make sure to use medium heat for that lovely char and flavor. You’ll still enjoy the taste of grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken!

Final Thoughts

Cooking this Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s an adventure in your kitchen! The vibrant flavors transport you straight to a tropical paradise, where every bite feels like a mini-vacation. I love how easy and quick it is to prepare, even on a hectic weekday. Plus, it’s a dish that brings family and friends together, sparking joy and laughter around the table. So grab your grill, put on some island tunes, and embrace the deliciousness. Trust me, this recipe will create cherished moments and unforgettable flavors that will make your heart sing!