This Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe brings bold sweet-and-savory flavor with almost no effort. The marinade blends pantry staples into a glossy glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Each bite delivers juicy chicken with rich flavor and a hint of ginger and garlic. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a backyard cookout, this recipe keeps things simple while still feeling special. Plus, it pairs perfectly with rice, avocado, or grilled vegetables, making it a go-to meal you’ll come back to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe
- Sweet and savory flavor in every bite
- Juicy grilled chicken that stays tender
- Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep or quick dinners
- Family-friendly and incredibly satisfying
Ingredients Needed
Ingredients List
- 2–5 lb chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- ¾ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¾ cup ketchup
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- ⅓ cup chicken broth
- 2 ½ teaspoons fresh ginger (grated)
- 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
Ingredient Notes
Chicken thighs work best for this Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful on the grill. Soy sauce adds depth, while ketchup gives body and tang. Brown sugar creates that sticky glaze everyone loves. Ginger and garlic bring balance and freshness that keep the flavor from feeling too heavy.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs if needed
- Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar
- Replace chicken broth with water
- Use bottled garlic and ginger if short on time
How to Make It
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, chicken broth, ginger, and garlic in a large bowl. Mix well and reserve 1 cup of marinade for grilling.
Step 2: Add chicken thighs to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Step 3: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Remove chicken from marinade.
Step 4: Grill chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side. Brush with reserved marinade while cooking.
Step 5: Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest, then serve.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Marinate overnight for stronger flavor
- Always reserve marinade before adding chicken
- Grill on medium heat to avoid burning
- Let chicken rest to keep juices inside
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not reserving marinade for glazing
- Using high heat and burning the sauce
- Skipping marination time
- Overcooking the chicken
Serving Suggestions + Easy Variations
Serve this chicken over rice with avocado and lime for a fresh, balanced meal. Add grilled pineapple for a tropical twist. You can also slice the chicken for tacos, wraps, or bowls. For extra heat, add chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade. For a sweeter version, mix in pineapple juice.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
- Store in airtight container up to 4 days
- Reheat gently to keep moisture
- Freeze for up to 4 months
FAQS
Can I bake this instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 425°F and broil at the end for caramelization.
How long should I marinate?
At least 6 hours, but overnight gives the best flavor.
Can I use chicken breasts?
Yes, but they cook faster and can dry out.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, up to 4 months.
Why This Recipe Works
This Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe works because it balances sweet and savory flavors perfectly. The brown sugar caramelizes during grilling, while soy sauce adds depth. Meanwhile, chicken thighs stay juicy under heat, and the marinade creates a glossy coating that locks in flavor and moisture.
Conclusion
This Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. It’s sweet, savory, juicy, and perfect for both busy nights and weekend cookouts. Once you try it, it will quickly become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
Print
Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe made with juicy grilled chicken thighs coated in a sweet and savory marinade. Perfect for easy dinners, meal prep, or summer cookouts.
Ingredients
2–5 lb chicken thighs boneless skinless
3/4 cup soy sauce low-sodium
3/4 cup ketchup
1 cup brown sugar packed
1/3 cup chicken broth
2 1/2 teaspoons fresh ginger grated
2 teaspoons garlic minced
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, chicken broth, ginger, and garlic. Mix well and reserve 1 cup for grilling.
2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium heat and remove chicken from marinade.
4. Grill chicken for 4 to 5 minutes per side, brushing with reserved marinade while cooking.
5. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest before serving.
Notes
Always reserve marinade before adding raw chicken.
Chicken thighs stay juicier than chicken breasts.
Store leftovers in fridge up to 4 days or freeze up to 4 months.