Hawaiian Curry Grilled Chicken Recipe: A Smoky Tropical Feast

Transport your backyard to the sun-drenched beaches of the islands with this vibrant Hawaiian Curry Grilled Chicken recipe. There is something truly magical about the fusion of rich, creamy coconut milk, aromatic curry paste, and the smoky char that only a grill can provide. This dish strikes the perfect balance between savory, sweet, and slightly spicy, creating a flavor profile that is distinctively tropical yet universally comforting. Whether you are cooking on a flat-top Arteflame griddle or a standard grate, the caramelization of the coconut-based marinade creates a mouthwatering golden crust that locks in moisture. Perfect for summer cookouts or brightening up a winter evening, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a meal that celebrates the bold, fresh flavors of Aloha.

Ingredients

The Chicken and Marinade

• 2 lbs Chicken thighs or breasts (boneless, skinless for best grilling results)
• 1 can (13.5 oz) Coconut milk (full-fat is recommended for richer flavor)
• 2 tbsp Red or Yellow Curry Paste (adjust based on heat preference)
• 3 cloves Garlic, fresh and minced
• 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp Soy sauce (or Tamari for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tbsp Honey or Brown Sugar
• 1 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice
• 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil (for the marinade)
• Salt and Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Garnish and Serving

• Fresh Cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
• Grilled Pineapple slices (optional but highly recommended)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tropical Marinade

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the coconut milk, curry paste, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and vegetable oil.
2. Whisk the ingredients vigorously until the curry paste is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Taste the marinade carefully; it should be a balance of salty, sweet, and aromatic. Add a pinch of salt or pepper if needed.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place your chicken thighs or breasts into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow glass dish.
2. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is generously coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator. Marinate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is best to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply and tenderize it.

Step 3: Fire Up the Grill

1. Preheat your grill. If you are using an Arteflame, build a fire in the center and allow the cooktop to reach a medium-high heat. You want a temperature that will sear the meat without burning the sugars in the marinade too quickly.
2. Lightly oil the grilling surface to prevent sticking, using a paper towel dipped in high-smoke-point oil.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

1. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid to prevent flare-ups or steaming.
2. Place the chicken on the grill. If using an Arteflame, place the chicken on the flat cooktop surface (plancha).
3. Cook for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. You are looking for a deep golden-brown sear and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Avoid moving the chicken too often; let the crust form before flipping.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

1. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and place it on a serving platter.
2. Let the meat rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent.
3. Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing.

Tips

To master this Hawaiian Curry Grilled Chicken, temperature management is key. Because the marinade contains honey and coconut milk, it contains natural sugars that can caramelize quickly. If you are grilling on an open flame, keep a close eye to prevent charring. On an Arteflame cooktop, utilize the different heat zones: sear the chicken closer to the center for that initial color, then move it to the outer, cooler ring to finish cooking through without burning. For the juiciest results, opt for chicken thighs over breasts; the higher fat content works beautifully with the curry flavors and withstands high heat better. Also, do not skip the fresh lime juice at the end—the acidity cuts through the richness of the coconut milk and elevates the entire dish.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary needs or flavor preferences. If you want to turn up the heat, try adding fresh minced chili peppers or a dash of cayenne to the marinade. For a vegetarian twist, this marinade works exceptionally well with firm tofu or thick slices of cauliflower steaks. You can also embrace the "Hawaiian" theme more aggressively by skewering the chicken with chunks of red onion and bell pepper for kabobs. Here are a few favorite tweaks to try:

• Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade.
• Seafood Twist: Swap chicken for large shrimp (marinate for only 30 minutes).
• Golden Herb: Add 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder for a vibrant yellow color and earthy flavor.
• Nutty Crunch: Garnish with crushed macadamia nuts or toasted cashews before serving.

Best pairings

To create a complete island feast, you need sides that complement the creamy, spiced nature of the chicken without overpowering it. Starchy sides are excellent for soaking up any residual sauce. A classic choice is steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice, which mirrors the flavors in the marinade. For a fresher contrast, a crisp cucumber salad with vinegar dressing or a tropical slaw made with cabbage, mango, and lime vinaigrette adds a necessary crunch. Since you already have the grill hot, throw on some pineapple rings or halved peaches; the grilled fruit pairs divinely with the savory curry. Beverage-wise, an icy Mai Tai, a cold lager, or fresh coconut water will round out the meal perfectly.

Conclusion

This Hawaiian Curry Grilled Chicken is more than just a dinner recipe; it is an experience that brings people together around the fire. The ease of preparation makes it a go-to for busy weeknights, while the complex, layered flavors make it impressive enough for weekend entertaining. By blending the aromatic depth of curry with the tropical sweetness of coconut, you create a dish that is comforting, exotic, and utterly delicious. Fire up your grill, gather your friends, and enjoy the sizzling sounds and savory scents of the islands right in your own backyard. Don't forget to share your culinary creation with us—we love seeing how you bring these flavors to life!