If you are craving a dish that brings a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors, look no further than this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe. It combines tender grilled chicken seasoned with aromatic spices, topped with juicy pineapple chunks, tangy BBQ sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Every bite is a delightful fusion that transports you straight to the islands with its tropical vibes and mouthwatering taste. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this recipe is straightforward, quick, and packed with bold flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe plays an essential role in creating that signature combination of smoky, sweet, and savory notes. From the perfectly seasoned chicken breasts to the fresh pineapple and cilantro, all come together effortlessly to deliver stunning flavor and texture.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that soaks up all the delicious spices and BBQ sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to keep the chicken moist while giving a subtle richness and aiding in even seasoning adherence.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings depth and a gentle pungency that enhances the savory profile.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a hint of sweetness and complexity to the chicken’s exterior.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Delivers smoky warmth and a vibrant color that sets the tone for a barbecue classic.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers a mild heat that balances the sweetness in this dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce: Provides tangy, sweet, and smoky notes that glaze the chicken just before serving.
- 1/4 cup pineapple chunks, drained: The tropical sweet burst that elevates this recipe beyond your average BBQ chicken.
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion: Adds crunch and a pungent bite for contrast.
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly over the top to give a creamy texture and mild flavor.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal brightness that finishes off the dish wonderfully.
How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Start by heating your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high. This ensures you’ll get those beautiful grill marks and that smoky flavor that’s key to this chicken’s appeal. Patience here sets the stage for juicy, evenly cooked chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the grill heats up, rub both chicken breasts evenly with olive oil. This step locks in moisture and helps the spices adhere better. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference in tenderness and flavor.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt evenly over both sides of the chicken. These spices create a delicious crust and infuse every bite with smoky, savory goodness.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This timing keeps the chicken juicy but thoroughly cooked, perfect for carrying the BBQ and pineapple toppings.
Step 5: Glaze with BBQ Sauce
In the last minute of cooking, brush generous amounts of BBQ sauce on both sides of each chicken breast. The heat will caramelize the sauce slightly, adding that irresistible sticky glaze that’s signature to this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe.
Step 6: Add Pineapple and Red Onion
Just before removing the chicken from the heat, pile on the pineapple chunks and sliced red onions. They warm up slightly without losing their fresh texture, delivering a sweet and tangy burst with every bite.
Step 7: Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken and let it melt for 1 to 2 minutes. The cheese adds a creamy richness that balances the smoky BBQ and the tart pineapple, making each mouthful extra indulgent.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the chicken from the grill and transfer it to a serving plate. Garnish with the chopped fresh cilantro, adding a splash of green and a fresh herbal flavor that makes the dish pop visually and taste-wise.
How to Serve Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is the star garnish for this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe. Its bright, lemony notes cut through the smoky richness and add a fresh finishing touch. You can also add a few extra pineapple chunks or a sprinkle of green onions for more color and layers of flavor.
Side Dishes
This flavorful chicken pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice to soak up the BBQ and pineapple juices. You could also serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a crunchy coleslaw to keep things light and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the grilled chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens or in a taco shell for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken tacos. Another great idea is to make sliders using small buns, adding extra pineapple and maybe a dollop of spicy mayo for that perfect sweet-heat combo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken separate from any fresh toppings like cilantro ensures it stays fresh longer.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken breasts wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When freezing, avoid adding fresh garnishes or cheese; add those after reheating for the best results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals to avoid drying out the chicken. Add fresh pineapple, cheese, and cilantro after reheating for a freshly made taste.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully because they are juicier and more forgiving on the grill. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they reach the proper internal temperature.
Is fresh pineapple necessary, or can I use canned?
Canned pineapple chunks work perfectly as long as they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture. Fresh pineapple adds extra brightness but canned keeps things simple and still tastes great.
Can I make this recipe indoors without a grill?
Yes! A stovetop grill pan or even a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat can easily replicate the grilling effect. Just watch closely to prevent burning and maintain that beautiful smoky crust.
How spicy is this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe?
It’s mild to moderate in spice, mainly from the black pepper and smoky paprika. If you want some heat, adding a pinch of cayenne or serving with spicy BBQ sauce will do the trick.
What kind of BBQ sauce works best?
Choose a barbecue sauce that’s balanced with a bit of sweetness and tanginess. A classic hickory or honey BBQ sauce pairs well, enhancing the flavors without overpowering the pineapple and spices.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a special treat but comes together with ease. The vibrant mix of smoky spices, sweet pineapple, and melty cheese makes every bite a celebration. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how simple and delicious bringing tropical BBQ flavor to your dinner table can be. So fire up your grill, gather these ingredients, and enjoy a little taste of paradise tonight!
Print
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 30m
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
A delicious Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe featuring grilled boneless, skinless chicken breasts seasoned with aromatic spices, topped with tangy BBQ sauce, juicy pineapple chunks, red onions, and melted mozzarella cheese. Garnished with fresh cilantro, it’s a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors ideal for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Toppings
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple chunks, drained
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat to ensure optimal cooking temperature for the chicken.
- Prepare Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts evenly with olive oil to help spices adhere and prevent sticking during grilling.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts for a flavorful crust.
- Grill Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill or grill pan and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring it’s cooked thoroughly.
- Apply BBQ Sauce: During the last minute of cooking, brush both sides of the chicken with BBQ sauce to add a delicious tangy glaze.
- Add Toppings: Just before removing the chicken from heat, top each breast with pineapple chunks and sliced red onion to infuse sweet and savory flavors.
- Melt Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken and let it melt for 1-2 minutes, creating a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Remove and Plate: Take the chicken off the grill and transfer to a plate carefully to retain all the toppings.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top for a fresh, aromatic finish.
- Serve: Serve immediately to enjoy the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken at its best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- You can substitute mozzarella with Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese for variation.
- If a grill is unavailable, a grill pan on the stovetop works perfectly.
- Drain pineapple chunks well to avoid excess moisture on the chicken.
- For extra smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika with a stronger profile or adding a dash of liquid smoke in the BBQ sauce.
