As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.
Imagine a tropical breeze wafting through your backyard as you grill up some delicious Hawaiian BBQ chicken. These five recipes bring together sweet and savory elements that'll elevate any meal. From skewers packed with juicy flavors to tacos that burst with tropical goodness, there's something for everyone. You won't want to miss the unique twists these dishes offer, making your summer gatherings unforgettable. What's your favorite way to enjoy BBQ chicken?
Key Takeaways
- Classic BBQ Hawaiian Chicken Skewers feature a pineapple-infused marinade, grilled with colorful vegetables for a vibrant presentation.
- Pineapple Teriyaki Grilled Chicken offers a quick, savory-sweet option enhanced by fresh pineapple, perfect for any meal.
- Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos combine sweet BBQ chicken with fresh toppings in warm corn tortillas, ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
- Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa blends honey and chili for a unique taste, complemented by refreshing mango salsa.
- Coconut Rum BBQ Chicken Thighs deliver a tropical twist with a marinade of coconut milk and dark rum, creating juicy, caramelized chicken.
Classic BBQ Hawaiian Chicken Skewers
BBQ Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite. The juicy chicken pieces marinated in a pineapple-infused sauce are skewered with vibrant vegetables, making this dish perfect for summer barbecues or family gatherings.
Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also offer a visually appealing presentation that will impress your guests.
Marinating the chicken is the key to achieving maximum flavor. The marinade, featuring ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar, coats the chicken, tenderizing it while infusing it with a delicious blend of taste. Once grilled to perfection, these skewers are sure to become a staple at your backyard cookouts.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by preparing the marinade. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, minced garlic, and ground ginger until well combined.
Reserve a small amount of the marinade for basting later. In a large resealable plastic bag or bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the marinade, making sure the chicken is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
Once marinated, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, bell pepper, and red onion onto the skewers, alternating between ingredients for a colorful presentation. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
Baste with the reserved marinade during the last few minutes of grilling for added flavor.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions after grilling.
If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. Always verify your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
Enjoy your BBQ Hawaiian Chicken Skewers with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Pineapple Teriyaki Grilled Chicken
Pineapple Teriyaki Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the tropical flavors of Hawaii right to your backyard barbecue. This recipe features juicy chicken marinated in a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce, infused with the vibrant taste of fresh pineapple. Grilling the chicken not only enhances its flavor but also gives it a lovely char that complements the sauce perfectly.
Whether you're hosting a summer cookout or enjoying a family dinner, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of pineapple and teriyaki creates a beautifully balanced flavor profile that enhances the natural taste of the chicken. With minimal preparation and a quick cooking time, this recipe is as convenient as it's delicious.
Serve it alongside steamed rice and grilled vegetables for a complete meal that transports you to a tropical paradise with every bite.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
To prepare the Pineapple Teriyaki Grilled Chicken, start by marinating the chicken breasts. In a bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and honey if desired.
Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they're well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor. While the chicken is marinating, soak wooden skewers in water if you plan to grill the chicken with pineapple chunks.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and season with salt and pepper. If using skewers, thread pineapple chunks onto the skewers alternating with the chicken pieces.
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste with leftover marinade during cooking for added flavor. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. When cooking Pineapple Teriyaki Grilled Chicken, it's important to keep an eye on the grill to prevent the chicken from overcooking or burning due to the sugars in the teriyaki sauce.
For added flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a hint of spice. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought teriyaki sauce, but homemade is always best for peak flavor. Enjoy your tropical grilled feast!
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos are a delightful fusion of flavors that bring the tropical taste of Hawaii right to your dinner table.
These tacos feature tender, sweet, and savory BBQ chicken, topped with fresh pineapple, crunchy cabbage, and a zesty sauce, all nestled in warm corn tortillas. With their vibrant colors and mouthwatering taste, they make for a perfect weeknight meal or a fun dish for gatherings with family and friends.
The beauty of Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos lies in their versatility. You can easily customize them according to your taste preferences by adding different toppings or adjusting the level of spice.
Whether you're a fan of extra heat or prefer a milder flavor, these tacos can accommodate your cravings while offering a unique twist on traditional taco night.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup Hawaiian BBQ sauce
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 cup shredded green cabbage
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking Instructions:
Start by preheating your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then brush both sides with Hawaiian BBQ sauce. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
While the chicken is resting, warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.
Assemble the tacos by placing a few slices of grilled chicken on each tortilla. Top with diced pineapple, shredded cabbage, and chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of citrus.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce for a few hours or overnight before grilling.
This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in an even more delicious taco.
Additionally, consider adding avocado slices or jalapeños for extra creaminess or heat.
Adjust the toppings to fit your preferences for a personalized touch. Enjoy your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos with friends and family!
Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken With Mango Salsa
Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa is a delightful dish that brings a tropical twist to the classic BBQ chicken. The combination of sweet mango and spicy seasonings creates a tantalizing flavor profile that will impress your family and friends at any summer gathering. This recipe not only showcases the juicy tenderness of grilled chicken but also highlights the vibrant and invigorating taste of fresh mango salsa.
To achieve the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, marinate the chicken in a mix of honey, soy sauce, and chili flakes. This marinade infuses the meat with flavor while keeping it moist during grilling. Paired with a bright and zesty mango salsa, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire, transporting your taste buds straight to a Hawaiian paradise.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, chili flakes, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
While the chicken marinates, prepare the mango salsa by combining diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro in a separate bowl. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the grilled chicken topped with the fresh mango salsa for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the marinade. If you can't find ripe mango, avocado can be a delicious substitute in the salsa. Additionally, feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less jalapeño according to your taste preference.
This dish pairs beautifully with coconut rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your Hawaiian BBQ feast!
Coconut Rum BBQ Chicken Thighs
Coconut Rum BBQ Chicken Thighs are an enticing tropical twist on traditional BBQ chicken, perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy dinner. The combination of coconut milk, brown sugar, and rum creates a sweet and savory marinade that infuses the chicken with a rich flavor.
When grilled to perfection, the chicken thighs become tender and juicy, with a beautifully caramelized exterior that will impress your family and friends. This dish not only brings a taste of the islands to your table, but it also offers a delightful contrast between the smoky BBQ flavor and the sweet notes of coconut and rum.
Pair it with grilled vegetables or a revitalizing pineapple salad for a complete meal that transports you straight to a beachside paradise.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup dark rum
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the coconut milk, dark rum, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is dissolved and the marinade is well blended.
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they're fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off, and discard the remaining marinade. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill.
Cook for about 6-7 minutes, then flip and continue grilling for another 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Extra Tips:
For an added layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken for longer than 2 hours or even overnight. This allows the spices and coconut flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.
Always verify the grill is preheated, as this helps in achieving a crispy skin. If you want to enhance the BBQ flavor, baste the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling. Enjoy your Coconut Rum BBQ Chicken Thighs with a side of grilled pineapple for a truly tropical experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead of Thighs in These Recipes?
Swapping chicken thighs for breasts is like trading a sturdy boat for a sleek canoe. You can do it, but the texture and flavor might change. Just adjust cooking times to guarantee everything's cooked perfectly!
What Sides Pair Well With BBQ Hawaiian Chicken?
When serving BBQ Hawaiian chicken, you'll love pairing it with coconut rice, grilled pineapple, or a fresh coleslaw. These sides enhance the sweet and savory flavors, making your meal even more delicious and satisfying.
How Do I Store Leftovers From These Recipes?
You wouldn't want your delicious leftovers to vanish into oblivion! Store them in airtight containers, refrigerate within two hours, and enjoy them within three to four days for maximum flavor and freshness. Don't let them go to waste!
Can I Make These Recipes in an Oven Instead of on a Grill?
Yes, you can definitely make these recipes in an oven instead of on a grill. Just preheat your oven, adjust cooking times, and keep an eye on the temperature for perfect results. Enjoy your meal!
What Are the Best Marinades for BBQ Hawaiian Chicken?
For BBQ Hawaiian chicken, you'll love marinades like a mix of soy sauce, pineapple juice, ginger, and brown sugar. They'll infuse your chicken with sweetness and tang, making every bite deliciously irresistible.
