Introduction
If you’re dreaming of sweet and smoky flavors with a tropical twist, Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is the perfect dish for you. This recipe is all about juicy chicken, tasty BBQ sauce, and a touch of pineapple for that island-style flavor.
It’s super easy to make, and you don’t need to be a pro cook to get it right. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or cooking for a weekend party, Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is always a big hit. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can make it at home in just a few simple steps.
Ingredients – Hawaiian BBQ Chicken
Before we start cooking, let’s gather everything we need. Here are the ingredients for making the best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup pineapple juice (from canned pineapples or fresh)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Extra BBQ sauce for serving
Step by Step Process – Hawaiian BBQ Chicken
Let’s go step-by-step so you can make this dish perfectly, even on your first try.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken dry with a paper towel. Then rub the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Let it sit for about 10 minutes so the flavors soak in.
Step 2: Make the Hawaiian BBQ Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ground ginger. Stir well until everything is combined. This sauce is the star of the recipe—it brings all the sweet and smoky Hawaiian flavors.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken (Optional but adds flavor)
Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the pan and cook each side for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. This step locks in flavor and gives the chicken a nice color. You can skip this if you’re in a rush.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and pour the Hawaiian BBQ sauce over it. Add the pineapple chunks on top.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and slightly caramelized on top.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve
Once done, sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds on top if you like. Serve with steamed rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad. And there you go! Delicious Hawaiian BBQ Chicken that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Sugars | 18g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. They work great in this recipe and are often more tender than chicken breasts.
Q2: What’s the best BBQ sauce for Hawaiian Chicken?
You can use any BBQ sauce you like. A smoky, sweet BBQ sauce works best. You can also use a spicy one if you like a little heat.
Q3: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just place the seasoned chicken and sauce in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours. It turns out super tender!
Q4: What can I serve with Hawaiian BBQ Chicken?
Great sides include white rice, coconut rice, coleslaw, grilled veggies, or a fresh fruit salad.
Q5: Can I store leftovers?
Yes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is the kind of meal that makes everyone happy. It’s easy to cook, full of flavor, and brings a little taste of the islands to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a backyard BBQ, this dish will impress.
The mix of sweet pineapple, smoky BBQ sauce, and tender chicken is simply unbeatable. Plus, it’s easy enough that anyone—even a beginner—can make it. So why not try it out today? Once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked!
