Name: Irresistible Huli Huli Chicken: Your New BBQ Obsession
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Pineapple Juice (Adds sweetness and helps to tenderize the chicken.); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (Provides umami and saltiness.); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Responsible for caramelization and sweetness.); 1/4 cup Ketchup (Introduces depth and subtle tang.); 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar (Brightens the marinade with acidity.); 4 cloves Garlic (Infuses aromatic depth.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (Adds warmth and zest.); 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (Contributes a nutty aroma.); 1 pinch Black Pepper (Delivers a hint of spice.); 4 pieces Chicken Thighs or Breasts (Thighs are preferred for juiciness.); 2 stalks Green Onion (Adds a fresh, crisp texture.); 2 cups Cooked White Rice (Perfectly complements the chicken.); 4 slices Grilled Pineapple (Boosts the tropical vibe.)

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The sizzle of chicken on a hot grill fills the air, evoking thoughts of summer nights and backyard parties. Huli Huli Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a vibrant celebration of Hawaiian cuisine, marinated in a delightful blend of pineapple, soy, garlic, and ginger. This dish transforms ordinary evenings into delicious adventures, making it the perfect choice for BBQs or cozy family dinners. With two irresistible perks—a quick prep time and a juicy, tender finish—this grilled chicken is guaranteed to please even the pickiest of eaters. So, are you ready to bring a taste of the tropics home? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why is Huli Huli Chicken a Must-Try?

Bursting with Flavor: The combination of pineapple and soy creates a sweet and savory glaze that will tantalize your taste buds.

Easy and Versatile: Perfect for grilling, baking, or slow cooking, this dish adapts to any cooking method you prefer.

Family-Friendly: With its juicy, tender chicken and delightful glaze, it’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it ideal for any family gathering.

Tropical Experience: Elevate your dining with a hint of island flair—consider pairing it with coconut rice or a fresh tropical salsa for an extra special touch!

Ready for more? Check out how to make an Oven-Baked Version or see the delightful Honey Butter Chicken if you’re craving something different!

Huli Huli Chicken Ingredients

For the Marinade

Pineapple Juice – Adds sweetness and helps to tenderize the chicken, making it incredibly juicy.
Soy Sauce – Provides umami and saltiness; can be substituted with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Brown Sugar – Responsible for caramelization and sweetness; balances the savory notes in the dish.
Ketchup – Introduces depth and a subtle tang that complements the pineapple flavor.
Rice Vinegar – Brightens the marinade with its acidity, enhancing overall flavor.
Garlic – Infuses aromatic depth; adjust based on your personal preference for garlic intensity.
Fresh Ginger – Adds warmth and zest, crucial for that lovely Huli Huli flavor.
Sesame Oil – Contributes a rich, nutty aroma that elevates the overall taste.
Black Pepper – Delivers a hint of spice and complexity to the flavor profile.

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Thighs are preferred for juiciness; breasts can dry out, so monitor cooking time closely.

For Garnishing and Serving

Green Onion – Adds a fresh, crisp texture for garnish, enhancing the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Cooked White Rice – Perfectly complements Huli Huli Chicken, soaking up all that delicious marinade.
Grilled Pineapple Slices – These not only boost the tropical vibe but also provide a deliciously caramelized contrast to the chicken.

With these Huli Huli Chicken ingredients, you’re all set to create a vibrant dish that will transport you straight to the Hawaiian islands with every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Huli Huli Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of pineapple juice, ¼ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, and a pinch of black pepper. Ensure the mixture is well-combined and the sugar is dissolved, creating a flavorful marinade for your Huli Huli Chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken thighs or breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight, to let those delicious flavors seep in and tenderize the meat.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill
About 15 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature of 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfect sear on your Huli Huli Chicken, locking in those juicy flavors. While the grill heats up, discard the marinade used for soaking the chicken for food safety.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken on the hot grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on one side, until the chicken achieves a beautiful char and is easily lifted off the grill. Flip the chicken and baste with the reserved marinade, grilling for an additional 6-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for optimal juiciness.

Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the Huli Huli Chicken from the grill and allow it to rest for 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps retain the moisture in your chicken. After resting, slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice, garnished with fresh green onion and accompanied by optional grilled pineapple slices for a tropical touch.

Huli Huli Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore your creativity in the kitchen with these fantastic twists that will elevate your Huli Huli Chicken experience!

Oven-Baked Version: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, basting halfway for a delicious finish. This method retains all the juicy goodness while being a breeze to prep!
Stovetop Seared: Sear in a hot skillet, then simmer with the marinade until it becomes sticky. The stovetop method creates a beautiful caramelized crust that you’ll adore.
Slow Cooker Style: For an effortless dish, cook on low for 4-5 hours, then finish under the broiler for crispiness. This hands-off approach lets you focus on other dishes!
Spicy Kick: Add chili garlic sauce or Sriracha to the marinade for a fiery twist that adds depth and excitement. Spice lovers will go wild for this version!
Tropical Twist: Serve over coconut rice or pair with fresh tropical salsa for a delightful flavor pairing. The sweetness of coconut beautifully complements the chicken’s glaze.
Pineapple Substitute: Use mango puree or orange juice in place of pineapple juice for a different fruity flavor that will keep your taste buds guessing!
Gluten-Free Option: Swap soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, ensuring your dish remains gluten-free without compromising flavor.

Why not take the time to experiment with these options? And if you’re still craving more chicken inspiration after your Huli Huli adventure, you can explore my delicious Honey Butter Chicken or dive into some scrumptious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves!

What to Serve with Authentic Huli Huli Chicken?

Elevate your Huli Huli Chicken experience with these delicious side dishes that promise to complement the vibrant flavors of this Hawaiian favorite.

Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice enhances the tropical essence of Huli Huli Chicken while providing a creamy contrast.
Grilled Pineapple Slices: Add extra caramelized sweetness and a touch of island flair—perfect for pairing with the smoky, tangy chicken.
Macaroni Salad: This classic accompaniment introduces a creamy, cooling element that balances Huli Huli’s bold flavors and wraps up the meal perfectly.
Asian Slaw: A crunchy, refreshing slaw adds a bright, tangy note with its crisp vegetables and zesty dressing, awakening the palate.
Mango Salsa: This tropical twist with fresh mango, lime, and cilantro provides a fruity brightness that complements the savory marinade splendidly.
Garlic Bread: Warm, toasted garlic bread creates a wonderful contrast with the soft chicken, perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.
Mai Tai Cocktail: Enjoy a refreshing sip of this fruity cocktail, providing an island vibe that perfectly complements the authentic flavors of Hawaiian cuisine.
Lemon Sorbet: To refresh your palate after the hearty chicken, this light, citrusy dessert is a perfect, zesty finish to your meal.

Make Ahead Options

Huli Huli Chicken is fantastic for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights. You can marinate the chicken (ideally overnight, up to 24 hours) in the delicious pineapple soy glaze to maximize flavor absorption. Simply whisk together your marinade and pour half over the chicken in a resealable bag or dish before refrigerating. Additionally, you can prepare the marinade up to three days in advance and store it in the refrigerator for optimal freshness. Once ready to cook, preheat your grill and grill the chicken as instructed. This not only enhances the flavors but allows you to enjoy this tropical delight with minimal effort, ensuring every bite is just as delicious!

How to Store and Freeze Huli Huli Chicken

Fridge:: Place leftover Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container, and you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.

Freezer:: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a resealable bag or airtight container, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its delicious taste.

Reheating:: To reheat, defrost the chicken in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quick meal.

Marinade Tip:: If you want to keep some of the fantastic flavors, save a small portion of the marinade before it touches the raw chicken, to brush while reheating!

Expert Tips for Huli Huli Chicken

Marinate Wisely: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight for maximum flavor absorption and tenderness, transforming your Huli Huli Chicken into a juicy delight.
Choose Chicken Thighs: Opt for boneless, skinless thighs instead of breasts for juiciness; they are less likely to dry out during cooking.
Control the Heat: Maintain medium-high heat on the grill to avoid burning the sugars in the marinade; this gives your chicken a perfect caramelized glaze.
Baste for Flavor: Basting frequently with reserved marinade while grilling ensures a delicious, layered glaze that’s packed with flavor.
Let it Rest: After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes; this crucial step locks in moisture and ensures tender bites.
Experiment with Variations: Feel free to try variations like making it spicy or serving it with coconut rice to keep meals exciting and fresh!

Huli Huli Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe fruits for the marinade?
Absolutely! When selecting pineapple for the marinade, look for one that has a sweet aroma at the base and is slightly soft to the touch. Avoid pineapples with dark spots or an overly mushy texture, as these can signify overripeness. Fresh garlic should also be firm with no signs of sprouting for the best flavor!

How should I store leftover Huli Huli Chicken?
You can keep any leftover Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its juiciness, try to consume it within this timeframe and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I freeze Huli Huli Chicken?
Certainly! To freeze, place the leftover chicken in a resealable bag or airtight container, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply defrost it in the fridge overnight, and reheat in the oven or microwave for a delightful meal!

What if my chicken is overcooked?
If you find your chicken has dried out, don’t fret! You can slice it and toss it in a bit of broth or reserved marinade to add moisture back in. Additionally, ensure that you are cooking to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and use a meat thermometer for accuracy to avoid overcooking in the future.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this Huli Huli Chicken gluten-free! Just substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which provide the same delightful umami flavor without the gluten. Always check labels to be sure the other ingredients you use are also gluten-free, particularly ketchup.

Can I marinate the chicken for longer than 24 hours?
It’s best to marinate the chicken for a maximum of 24 hours. While a longer marination can intensify the flavors, it might also lead to a mushy texture due to the pineapple juice’s tenderizing effect. Stick to 1-24 hours for the perfect balance!