Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe — I still remember the first time I tasted it, right off a street grill in Honolulu. The smoky-sweet aroma, the caramelized glaze, and that juicy bite—it felt like a warm tropical hug in every mouthful.

Back home, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. So, I made it my mission to recreate that unforgettable experience in my own kitchen.

This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe is the result of countless tests, tweaks, and taste sessions. It’s bold, easy to make, and hits that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and lightly spiced. Whether you’re firing up the grill, air frying for ease, or baking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe brings island vibes to your table every single time.

It’s not just chicken—it’s a memory in the making. One you’ll come back to, again and again.

Don’t miss our creamy garlic chicken if you’re craving another rich, flavor-packed chicken recipe tonight.

Let’s dive into the only Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe you’ll ever need.

Ingredients for the Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Essential Ingredients for Marinade and Garnish

Creating the perfect Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe begins with the right ingredients. This flavorful dish is built on the harmony of sweet pineapple, savory soy, and aromatic spices. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Ingredient	Purpose
2 lb chicken thighs or breasts	Juicy, tender base protein
20 oz can pineapple rings + ¾ cup juice	Signature tropical sweetness
⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce	Adds deep umami flavor
1 tbsp sesame oil	Adds nutty depth
2 cloves garlic (or 1 tsp powder)	Sharp bite of flavor
1 tbsp minced ginger	Warm, peppery zing
3 tbsp brown sugar	Balances the salt with sweetness
⅓ cup ketchup	Rich tomato base
2 tsp tomato paste	Boosts BBQ flavor
½ tsp red pepper flakes	Adds mild heat
½ tsp nutmeg & ¼ tsp chili powder	Subtle warmth and spice
Chopped green onions & cilantro	Fresh garnish to brighten it up

Every great Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe starts here—with a marinade that fuses sweet and savory flavors to perfection.

Optional Add-Ins and Substitutions You Can Try

Want to personalize your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe? Here are some smart swaps and flavorful extras:

• Use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat
• Fresh pineapple for brighter, natural flavor
• Avocado slices for creamy texture
• Honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar
• Liquid smoke if you’re baking instead of grilling
• Serve it with rice, roasted veggies, or even in wraps

Check out our blackstone chicken fried rice for another crowd-pleasing dish to serve alongside your Hawaiian-style meal.

How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Preparing the Marinade and Marinating the Chicken

Now that you’ve gathered the essentials, it’s time to bring your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe to life.

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:

• Pineapple juice
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Brown sugar
• Ketchup
• Tomato paste
• Red pepper flakes
• Nutmeg
• Chili powder

Taste and tweak—it should be balanced, bold, and just a little bit sweet.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

• Pat dry the chicken.
• Add it to a ziplock bag or deep bowl.
• Pour in half of the marinade. Toss until coated.
• Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 24 hours).
• Save the other half of the marinade separately to use for basting later.

This marinade is the heart of your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe, so let it work its magic.

Grilling, Air Frying, or Baking: Your Choice of Cooking Method

No matter how you cook it, this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe delivers flavor in every bite.

Grilling Instructions

• Preheat grill to medium
• Clean and oil grates
• Grill chicken for 3 minutes per side, then baste with simmered marinade
• Flip until internal temp reaches 165°F
• Grill pineapple rings in the last 4 minutes

Air Fryer Instructions

• Set to 350°F
• Add marinated chicken in a single layer
• Cook 15–18 minutes, basting halfway with simmered marinade
• Finish with fresh pineapple

Oven Instructions

• Bake at 375°F for 16–18 minutes
• Baste halfway through
• Serve with warm or room-temp pineapple slices

Don’t miss our creamy ranch chicken breast if you’re in the mood for another foolproof, flavorful chicken meal.

This step-by-step Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe is designed to be flexible, easy, and absolutely delicious—whichever way you cook it.

The Secret to Authentic L&L Hawaiian BBQ Chicken at Home

What Makes L&L Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Unique?

If you’ve ever stood in line at an L&L Hawaiian Barbecue and taken that first bite, you already know—L&L’s chicken isn’t just grilled meat; it’s a flavor bomb. What sets their Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe apart is the precise layering of sweetness, smoke, and soy-based depth. It’s not overly sticky, not too spicy—just balanced, bold, and downright addictive.

The signature comes from:

• A marinade that leans heavy on pineapple and soy
• A char-grilled sear that slightly caramelizes the sugars
• Juicy dark meat that stays tender under high heat
• Simple plating: steamed rice, maybe some macaroni salad, and grilled pineapple

It’s comfort food—but with island soul.

Tips to Recreate That Island-Style Flavor at Home

You don’t need a commercial kitchen to make your homemade Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe taste like it came straight out of an L&L kitchen. Here’s how to nail it:

1. Use Chicken Thighs

They hold moisture better and caramelize beautifully on the grill.

2. Balance Your Marinade

Too much sugar can burn, and too little makes the flavor fall flat. Stick to the tested mix of brown sugar, ketchup, soy, and pineapple juice.

3. Simmer Before Basting

Don’t baste with raw marinade. Simmer the reserved half to create a thick, sticky glaze that’s safe and flavorful.

4. Grill for Texture

You’ll get a slightly crisp edge with those classic grill lines—key to the real L&L experience.

5. Serve Island-Style

Layer it over rice, add grilled pineapple rings, and sprinkle with chopped green onion and cilantro. Keep it simple and satisfying.

Discover more flavor-packed ideas like our garlic parmesan chicken recipe for dishes that pack a serious punch in every bite.

The beauty of this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe is that it gives you all the L&L vibes, with none of the takeout cost. It’s simple, it’s satisfying, and with these tips, it’s spot-on authentic.

Grilling Tips for Juicy Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Preparing Your Grill the Right Way

When it comes to nailing the texture and taste of this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe, the grill is your best friend. But preparation is key—don’t just throw the chicken on and hope for the best.

Here’s how to prep like a pro:

1. Clean your grates
   Start with a clean grill to avoid sticking and unwanted char flavors. Use a wire brush before turning on the heat.
2. Oil it up
   Lightly brush the grates with oil using tongs and a paper towel to create a nonstick surface.
3. Preheat to medium
   Aim for about 375–400°F. This temperature allows the marinade to caramelize without burning.
4. Keep your tools nearby
   Have tongs, a basting brush, and your simmered marinade ready to go—once it’s on the grill, you’ll need to work fast.

How to Know When the Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked

Cooking chicken over open flame can be tricky. Overdo it, and it dries out. Undercook it, and you’re risking food safety. This part of your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe is where technique really shines.

Use these pro tips:

• Flip only when needed
  Start with 3 minutes per side, then rotate every few minutes while basting. Don’t keep flipping—it’ll dry out.
• Baste often, but smartly
  Use your simmered marinade, not raw, to baste as it cooks. This locks in flavor and gives a beautiful glaze.
• Check the internal temp
  Your chicken is done when it hits 165°F in the thickest part. Use a meat thermometer—don’t guess.
• Rest before slicing
  After removing from the grill, let your chicken rest for 5 minutes. It keeps juices locked in and makes each bite better.

Looking for inspiration? Try our smoked chicken legs if you’re craving more grill magic and smoky depth.

A perfect Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe isn’t just about flavor—it’s about mastering the grill. Follow these steps, and you’ll serve up juicy, tender chicken that steals the show every single time.

Serving Ideas for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Best Side Dishes: Rice, Pineapple, and More

Once your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe is grilled to juicy perfection, the next question is—what do you serve it with?

Here are classic and creative sides that pair beautifully:

🌴 Traditional Hawaiian Plate Style:

• Steamed white rice: Soaks up that sweet-savory glaze effortlessly.
• Grilled pineapple rings: Add caramelized fruitiness and a warm tropical note.
• Macaroni salad: A creamy, cooling contrast to the BBQ heat.

🥗 Fresh & Light Options:

• Cucumber pineapple salad: Crisp, tangy, and refreshing.
  Try our pineapple cucumber salad for the perfect match.
• Grilled corn on the cob: Sweet, smoky, and simple.
• Sautéed bok choy or snap peas: Add crunch and greens to balance the plate.

🍽 Comfort Food Favorites:

• Garlic mashed potatoes: Hearty and indulgent.
• Hawaiian-style dinner rolls: Soft and slightly sweet—great for sandwiches!

No matter how you plate it, this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe brings the flavor. Your sides just bring it all together.

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Bowl, Salad, or Wrap: Creative Ways to Serve

Want to switch things up from the standard dinner plate? This recipe is flexible and fun to repurpose. Here are some crowd-favorite ways to serve it:

🥣 Make It a Bowl

Layer steamed rice, sliced BBQ chicken, grilled pineapple, avocado, and a sprinkle of green onion in a bowl. Top with leftover marinade drizzle for extra flavor.

🌯 Wrap It Up

Roll the chicken with cabbage slaw, sliced mango, and a smear of spicy mayo in a tortilla for a Hawaiian BBQ wrap that travels well.

🥗 Toss a Salad

Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken slices, and pineapple chunks. Add a light sesame dressing and toasted almonds for crunch.

Check out our chicken salad with apples and walnuts if you’re craving something equally refreshing but with a twist.

Your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe isn’t just one meal—it’s a launchpad for multiple mouthwatering variations. From bowls to wraps, the island flavor never has to stop.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Storing Leftovers Correctly (Fridge and Freezer)

One of the best parts about this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe is how well it stores. Whether you’re prepping ahead or saving leftovers, here’s how to keep that flavor fresh:

🧊 Refrigerating

• Store cooked chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Keep leftover grilled pineapple in a separate container if possible.

❄️ Freezing

• Slice or shred the chicken before freezing for easy use later.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Label the date for easy tracking.
• Freeze extra marinade (unused, not raw-contact) for next time.

Pro tip: Freeze in portion sizes to reheat only what you need.

Reheating Without Drying Out the Chicken

Reheating BBQ chicken can be tricky—but not with the right methods. Here’s how to keep your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe moist and flavorful after day one:

🔥 Oven Method (Best for Texture)

• Preheat to 350°F
• Add a splash of chicken broth or leftover marinade over the chicken
• Cover with foil to trap moisture
• Bake for 10–12 minutes until heated through

🔄 Microwave Method (Quick Option)

• Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish
• Add 1 tsp water or sauce
• Cover loosely and heat in 30-second bursts until hot

🍳 Skillet Method

• Heat a little oil or marinade in a nonstick skillet
• Reheat chicken over medium-low, covered
• Flip once and baste to restore that glossy finish

Don’t miss our melt-in-your-mouth chicken breast if you’re after another leftover-friendly dinner winner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Nutrition Information and Customization Tips for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Caloric Breakdown and Nutritional Notes

The beauty of this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe is that it’s flavorful and relatively light, especially when served with fresh sides.

Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving (based on thighs, no rice or avocado):

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	280–310 kcal
Protein	25–28g
Carbohydrates	10–12g
Sugar	6–8g
Fat	14–17g
Sodium	450–600mg

Note: These values will vary depending on portion size, exact ingredients used, and whether you grill, bake, or air fry. Also, the calorie count is slightly overestimated, since about half of the marinade is discarded after soaking the raw chicken.

If you want a more health-focused take, this recipe is totally adaptable.

Make It Healthier or Spicier: Modifications You Can Try

You don’t need to stick to one version of this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe. Make it your own with these healthy and tasty tweaks:

✅ For a Lighter Option:

• Use chicken breasts instead of thighs to cut down on fat.
• Replace brown sugar with honey or coconut sugar.
• Serve with cauliflower rice or a simple cabbage slaw instead of white rice.

🔥 For More Heat:

• Add extra red pepper flakes or a squeeze of sriracha to the marinade.
• Include jalapeños in your grilled veggie sides for a bold contrast.

🌿 For Freshness:

• Add lime zest or a splash of rice vinegar to brighten the flavor.
• Garnish with mint or Thai basil for a cool island twist.

Check out our cheesy chicken bake if you’re in the mood for something comforting yet customizable for low-carb or high-protein diets.

Whether you’re counting macros or simply craving flexibility, this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe has room to adapt—without ever sacrificing flavor.

Over-Marinating or Undercooking: What to Watch Out For

While this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe is beginner-friendly, a few small missteps can impact flavor and texture. Here’s how to avoid the most common pitfalls:

❌ Over-Marinating

• While it’s tempting to marinate overnight and beyond, chicken thighs only need 20 minutes to 12 hours max.
• Too long in acidic pineapple juice can break down the protein, making the chicken mushy.

❌ Undercooking or Overcooking

• Chicken must hit 165°F internally—not 160, not 180.
• Undercooking is unsafe; overcooking dries it out.
• Use a meat thermometer for guaranteed results.

❌ Basting with Raw Marinade

• Never use marinade that touched raw chicken for basting unless it’s been simmered for 5–10 minutes to kill bacteria.
• Always reserve a portion beforehand for safe use.

Flavor Balance: How to Adjust Sweetness, Salt, and Spice

This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe should deliver a perfect punch of sweet, savory, and smoky heat. But if you’re not tasting the balance, here’s how to fix it:

🔄 Too Sweet?

• Add a splash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lime to tame the sugar.

🔄 Too Salty?

• Mix in a little more pineapple juice or brown sugar to mellow it out.

🔄 Too Mild?

• Kick it up with extra chili powder, sriracha, or even a pinch of cayenne.

Remember—marinade is like music. It’s all about balance. Taste before you pour, and tweak the notes to fit your flavor style.

Looking for a savory twist? Don’t miss our balsamic baked chicken breast for a bold, tangy dish that’s equally foolproof

FAQs About Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Make This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe Your Summer Staple

This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe isn’t just another meal—it’s an experience. It’s the taste of warm nights, island breezes, and unforgettable flavor on every plate. Whether you’re grilling outside with friends or meal-prepping on a weeknight, this recipe delivers every single time.

From the smoky-sweet marinade to the juicy grilled perfection, you’ve now got everything you need to recreate authentic Hawaiian flavor—right at home.

Don’t miss our lemon pepper chicken if you’re looking to explore more bold, bright chicken recipes.

So go ahead. Fire up the grill. Your island-inspired dinner is waiting.