There’s something irresistible about Hawaiian BBQ—the sweet and tangy marinades, the smoky char from the grill, and the juicy, melt-in-your-mouth meat that makes you close your eyes and savor every bite. Why settle for takeout when you can recreate those bold island flavors at home, fresher and more delicious than any restaurant could deliver?
This list is your ticket to a tropical backyard feast, packed with 11 mouthwatering Hawaiian BBQ recipes that bring the Aloha spirit straight to your plate. Imagine sticky-sweet teriyaki chicken thighs caramelizing on the grill, tender pork slathered in a pineapple-infused glaze, or smoky kalua pork slow-cooked until it falls apart with just a fork. From classic huli huli chicken to Hawaiian-style grilled shrimp skewers with a kick of chili and lime, these recipes balance sweetness, smokiness, and just the right touch of savory umami.
But we’re not stopping at the mains—think buttery grilled corn brushed with coconut milk, creamy mac salad with a hint of ginger, and fluffy white rice soaking up all those luscious BBQ juices. We’ve even thrown in a few surprises, like Hawaiian BBQ sliders piled high with tangy slaw and grilled pineapple rings, because every great BBQ deserves the perfect bite-sized encore.
So fire up the grill, grab a cold drink, and get ready to transform your next cookout into a Hawaiian luau. Your taste buds (and your hungry friends) will thank you.
Grilled Teriyaki Shrimp
Grilled Teriyaki Shrimp is a delightful dish that balances the savory richness of teriyaki sauce with the fresh taste of perfectly grilled shrimp. The sweetness from the marinade enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor, creating an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s super easy to make, making it a great option for both busy weeknights and casual weekend gatherings.
This dish shines with its smoky, charred exterior and tender, juicy interior. Marinating the shrimp allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while grilling gives it that authentic Hawaiian BBQ flair. Serve it up with a side of rice or veggies, and you’ll forget all about takeout!
Pineapple Salsa
Pineapple salsa is a refreshing and vibrant addition to any meal. With its sweet and tangy flavors, this salsa is perfect for brightening up grilled meats or simply enjoying with tortilla chips. It’s a quick and easy recipe that requires minimal prep time, making it an ideal choice for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
The combination of juicy pineapple, crisp bell peppers, and zesty lime creates a delightful explosion of flavor in every bite. This salsa not only adds color to your table but also pairs beautifully with Hawaiian BBQ dishes, ensuring every meal feels like a tropical getaway.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl.
- Toss gently to mix, ensuring the pineapple and other vegetables are evenly distributed.
- Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Let the salsa sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve with tortilla chips, or use it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.
Kalua Pork Sliders
Kalua pork sliders bring a taste of Hawaii right to your kitchen! Tender, smoky pork is paired with fresh toppings, all nestled between soft slider buns. The combination of flavors is a delightful mix of savory and slightly sweet, making these sliders a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
This recipe is simple to prepare, perfect for busy weekdays or weekend barbecues. With just a few ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can enjoy a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds pork shoulder
- 2 tablespoons sea salt
- 2 tablespoons liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup Hawaiian barbecue sauce
- 1 cup diced pineapple (optional)
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- Lettuce leaves (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: Rub the pork shoulder with sea salt, black pepper, and liquid smoke. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil.
- Cook: Place the wrapped pork in a slow cooker on low heat for about 8-10 hours until it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Mix in the barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
- Assemble the Sliders: Place a generous amount of the shredded pork on each slider bun. Top with diced pineapple and sliced green onions, if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy the sliders warm, perhaps with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a delicious meal.
Maui Style BBQ Ribs
Get ready to savor the taste of the islands with Maui Style BBQ Ribs! These ribs are all about that tender, fall-off-the-bone goodness, infused with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce that will transport your taste buds to a Hawaiian paradise. The combination of savory flavors and a touch of sweetness makes this dish a true treat for any occasion.
Making these ribs is a simple process, perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs. With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll have a delicious meal that rivals your favorite takeout. Fire up your grill and let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- In a bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and apple cider vinegar.
- Season the ribs with salt and pepper. Brush a generous amount of the sauce mixture over both sides of the ribs.
- Place the ribs on the grill, bone side down. Cook for about 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with more sauce.
- Once the ribs are tender and caramelized, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice the ribs, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Loco Moco with BBQ Sauce
Loco Moco is a beloved Hawaiian dish that combines a hearty burger patty, fluffy rice, and a runny fried egg, all smothered in savory BBQ sauce. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day. It’s an easy recipe to whip up, making it a great option for a home-cooked feast that rivals takeout.
This dish is a delightful fusion of tastes and textures, with the juicy burger and runny egg balanced by the sweetness of the BBQ sauce. It’s a fun, casual meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious Loco Moco!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Patties: In a bowl, mix the ground beef with soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form into two burger patties.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness.
- Fry the Eggs: In another pan, fry the eggs sunny-side up until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny.
- Assemble: On a plate, layer cooked rice, a burger patty, and top it with a fried egg. Drizzle BBQ sauce generously over the top.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions if desired and enjoy your homemade Loco Moco!
Huli Huli Chicken
Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian classic that brings the taste of the islands straight to your grill. With its sweet and savory marinade, this dish is a perfect mix of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. The preparation is simple, making it great for a backyard cookout or a cozy family dinner.
This dish features marinated chicken that becomes tender and juicy after grilling, with a delightful caramelization that adds a smoky flavor. Serve it alongside grilled pineapple for a truly authentic experience, and enjoy the sunshine and tropical vibes right at home.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pineapple slices for grilling
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken to the bowl and coat thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Grill the Pineapple: During the last few minutes of cooking, add pineapple slices to the grill and cook until caramelized.
- Serve: Plate the grilled chicken and pineapple together, and enjoy this Hawaiian delight!
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Teriyaki chicken skewers are a delightful treat that combines sweet and savory flavors with a hint of smokiness from the grill. These skewers are marinated in a rich teriyaki sauce, providing a mouthwatering taste that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re simple to make, making them a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend barbecue.
Grilling chicken skewers is not only easy but also a great way to bring out the natural flavors of the chicken. Pair them with fresh vegetables for a colorful presentation and added crunch. These skewers are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the teriyaki sauce, honey, and vegetable oil. Add the chicken pieces and stir until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken, bell pepper, and onion onto the soaked skewers, alternating between ingredients.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your delicious teriyaki chicken skewers hot off the grill!
BBQ Ahi Poke Bowl
If you’re craving a taste of Hawaii without the takeout, the BBQ Ahi Poke Bowl is a fantastic choice. This dish combines tender, grilled ahi tuna with fresh veggies and a kick of flavor, making it both healthy and satisfying. It’s not only delicious but also simple to whip up at home, perfect for a laid-back dinner or a gathering with friends.
The balance of savory and fresh elements in this poke bowl is what makes it special. The grilled tuna, paired with crunchy vegetables and a zesty sauce, creates a refreshing meal that bursts with flavor. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh ahi tuna, diced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup diced mango
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Cooked rice or quinoa for serving
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and rice vinegar. Add the diced ahi tuna and mix to coat. Let marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
- Grill the Tuna: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated tuna for about 2-3 minutes on each side, just until cooked through but still tender. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Assemble the Bowl: In serving bowls, start with a base of cooked rice or quinoa. Top with grilled tuna, diced cucumber, mango, shredded carrots, and avocado slices.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy your BBQ Ahi Poke Bowl fresh!
Coconut Rice
Coconut rice is a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine. With its creamy texture and subtle sweetness, it complements a variety of savory dishes and brings a taste of the tropics to your table. This recipe is simple to prepare, making it a great addition to any meal.
The rich flavor of coconut milk combined with fluffy rice creates a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or seafood. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, so you’ll have more time to enjoy your meal with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
- Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
BBQ Veggie Platter
This BBQ Veggie Platter is a vibrant and delicious option for anyone looking to enjoy fresh, grilled vegetables. The smoky flavor from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the veggies, making them a perfect side dish or a light main course. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare!
Roasted to perfection, this platter is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Toss in your favorite dipping sauce, and you have a dish that everyone will love. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a variety of seasonal veggies!
Ingredients
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup corn, cut from the cob
- 1 cup red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup eggplant, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- Place the veggies in a grill basket or directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and have grill marks.
- Remove from the grill and let cool slightly before transferring to a serving platter.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as a spicy aioli or a tangy vinaigrette.
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
Hawaiian macaroni salad is a creamy, comforting dish that perfectly complements any BBQ spread. With its rich texture and a hint of sweetness, it brings a delightful balance to grilled meats and savory sides. This recipe is simple to whip up, making it a go-to choice for gatherings or a quick family meal.
The combination of elbow macaroni, mayonnaise, and a touch of vinegar gives it that signature Hawaiian flair. You can customize it with veggies like carrots and peas for added crunch and color. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before serving!
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup grated carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup diced celery
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and let it cool.
- Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and pickle relish if using.
- Combine ingredients: Add the cooled macaroni, grated carrots, chopped green onions, and diced celery to the dressing. Mix well until everything is coated.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors blend.
- Serve: Give it a good stir before serving, and enjoy this Hawaiian classic alongside your favorite BBQ dishes!
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian BBQ isn’t just food—it’s a vibe. The kind of meal that turns an ordinary dinner into a mini-vacation, where every bite feels like sunshine and ocean breeze. With these 11 recipes, you’ll never look at takeout the same way again. Whether you’re craving the classics or ready to try something new, these dishes bring the flavors of the islands to your kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. So throw on your favorite Hawaiian shirt, crank up the ukulele tunes, and let’s get grilling—your homemade luau starts now!
