Hawaiian Style BBQ pupu Chicken

Hawaiian-style BBQ pupu chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors that captures the essence of the islands in every bite. This dish, known for its sweet and savory profile, showcases marinated chicken pieces that are grilled to perfection, imparting a smoky aroma reminiscent of traditional Hawaiian luaus. The marinade typically blends the rich, tropical sweetness of pineapple with the umami depth of soy sauce, balanced by a hint of garlic and ginger for an extra layer of complexity. Often served as a pupu, or appetizer, this dish invites diners to experience a taste of aloha, making it a perfect addition to any gathering where you want to introduce a touch of Hawaiian hospitality. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a taste of the tropics, Hawaiian-style BBQ pupu chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• Chicken Marinade:
  • 2 pounds of chicken thighs or drumsticks
  • 1 cup soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for a bit of heat)

BBQ Glaze:

1/2 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup hoisin sauce, 1/4 cup pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder

Garnish:

Sliced scallions, Sesame seeds, Fresh pineapple chunks (optional)

Instructions:

• Marinate the Chicken:
  • In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and chili flakes. Mix well to dissolve the sugar.
  • Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for the best flavor.
• Prepare the BBQ Glaze:
  • In a saucepan, combine ketchup, hoisin sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a simmer.
  • Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
• Grill the Chicken:
  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  • Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Discard the marinade.
  • Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Apply the Glaze:
  • During the last few minutes of grilling, generously brush the chicken with the BBQ glaze, turning occasionally to caramelize the glaze onto the chicken.
• Serve:
  • Transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter.
  • Garnish with sliced scallions, sesame seeds, and fresh pineapple chunks.
  • Serve hot with your favorite sides like rice, macaroni salad, or grilled vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian-style BBQ Pupu Chicken!