Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

The scent of caramelized chicken sizzling on the grill instantly brings back memories of summer barbecues with friends and family. This Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe is not just about tender, juicy thighs marinated in a sweet and tangy blend of flavors—it also comes together in a snap and is perfect for those craving a taste of the tropics. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you’ll have a delightful dish that’s ready to impress.

This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game, whether for a family dinner, summer gathering, or tailgate party. Plan to marinate the chicken for at least six hours or overnight to maximize flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The marinade creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs remain juicy and tender on the grill.
• Quick grilling time makes this a fast weeknight option.
• Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd!

What You’ll Need

Get ready to create a fantastic Hawaiian BBQ chicken experience with these ingredients.

For the Marinade

• 3/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 3/4 cup ketchup
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/3 cup chicken broth
• 2 1/2 tsp fresh grated ginger
• 2 tsp minced garlic

For the Chicken

• 2-5 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs

Low-sodium soy sauce is recommended for flavor control.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Honey can replace brown sugar.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Ginger paste works instead of fresh ginger.
• Chicken breasts can substitute thighs.

How to Make It

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious Hawaiian BBQ chicken.

Combine the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, chicken broth, ginger, and garlic to create the marinade.

Reserve Marinade

Reserve 1 cup of marinade in an airtight container for later basting.

Marinate Chicken

Add chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Preheat Grill

Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

Grill Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade and grill each side for about 3-4 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F).

Baste While Grilling

Baste with reserved marinade while grilling for extra flavor.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Yes, can freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure to marinate overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
• Always check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
• Use a grill brush to clean the grates before grilling for better sear marks.
• Baste the chicken multiple times for added moisture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
• Pair with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Great for summer parties or family gatherings.