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Homemade Kilauea Chicken - A perfectly made chicken on my kitchen table, overhead image.
Antonio Morelli

Kilauea Chicken Recipe

A juicy, sweet, and spicy Hawaiian-style grilled chicken made with pineapple marinade and bold flavors.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American BBQ Fusion, Hawaiian-Inspired
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 700-800 g chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp brown sugar or honey
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 1 tsp chili flakes
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp sesame oil

Equipment

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs
  • Basting brush
  • Knife & cutting board
  • Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)

Method
 

  1. Mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes to make marinade.
  2. Add chicken and marinate for 2–4 hours (overnight for best flavor).
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and oil lightly.
  4. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
  5. Baste with extra marinade during cooking for a glossy finish.
  6. Rest for 5 minutes, then garnish and serve hot.

Notes

  • Marinate longer for deeper flavor, but avoid over 24 hours
  • Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness
  • Cook on medium heat to prevent sugar from burning
  • Always rest chicken before cutting for the best texture
  • Adjust spice level based on your preference