Go Back
Hawaiian BBQ chicken served with coconut rice avocado and grilled vegetables

Best Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Recipe

Easy grilled Hawaiian BBQ chicken thighs with a sweet soy ginger marinade that creates tender, juicy meat with an irresistible caramelized crust.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Marinating Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 23 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian Fusion, Hawaiian
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2.5 lb chicken thighs boneless, skinless
  • 0.75 cup soy sauce low-sodium
  • 0.75 cup ketchup
  • 1 cup brown sugar packed
  • 0.33 cup chicken broth
  • 2.5 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
  • 2 teaspoon garlic minced

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Gas or charcoal grill
  • Food brush for basting
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Airtight container for reserved marinade

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, chicken broth, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk until the sugar dissolves. Reserve 1 cup of marinade in an airtight container and refrigerate for basting.
  2. Add chicken thighs to the bowl with remaining marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for best results.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
  4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard used marinade. Place thighs on preheated grill and cook for 3 to 4 minutes without moving.
  5. Flip chicken and brush generously with reserved marinade. Continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes, brushing occasionally, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. Remove from grill and let rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving. Serve with rice, sliced avocado, and your favorite sides.

Notes

For maximum flavor, marinate overnight. The sugar in the marinade caramelizes beautifully but can burn quickly, so watch closely during the last minutes of grilling. Fresh ginger and garlic make a significant difference in flavor. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 4 months.
QR Code linking back to recipe