Huli Huli Chicken has a special place in my heart, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you! It reminds me of warm summer evenings and the incredible aroma of grilling chicken wafting through the air. This Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is marinated in a sweet, savory, and tangy sauce that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving it this irresistible sticky glaze. Learning how to make Huli Huli Chicken at home was a game-changer for my BBQs. The combination of pineapple juice, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a flavor explosion that’s truly unforgettable. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Huli Huli Chicken
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this incredible dish!
- Unbeatable Flavor: The sweet and savory pineapple-soy marinade creates a perfectly caramelized, sticky glaze that’s absolutely delicious.
- Quick Prep Time: With just 10 minutes of active prep, this Easy Huli Huli Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthier Option: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs makes it a leaner protein choice compared to some other grilled meats.
- Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are common pantry staples, making this an affordable way to enjoy a taste of Hawaii.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore the sweet, tangy flavor of this Easy Huli Huli Chicken.
- Perfect for Grilling: It’s designed for the grill, bringing out those smoky notes and char you crave.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course or even in salads and wraps.
Authentic Huli Huli Chicken Ingredients
Gathering these key components will help you create a truly memorable Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken. The magic of this dish lies in its vibrant marinade, and getting the proportions just right is crucial for that classic sweet and savory profile. These ingredients form the heart of the Huli Huli Chicken marinade, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- 4-5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs – these stay juicy and absorb the marinade beautifully
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar – for that essential caramelized sweetness
- 1/2 cup ketchup – adds a tangy base and helps with glaze consistency
- 1/2 cup light soy sauce – provides the savory, umami depth
- 1/2 cup canned pineapple juice – the secret to tenderizing and adding a tropical sweetness
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste – for a warm, zesty kick
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste – essential for that pungent aroma and flavor
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin – adds an earthy, subtle warmth
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper – for a gentle bite
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika – adds a hint of smokiness and color
- Pineapple rings for grilling – optional, but adds a fantastic grilled fruit element
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions for garnish – for a fresh, oniony finish
How to Make Huli Huli Chicken
Get ready for the most amazing grilled chicken you’ve ever tasted! This Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken recipe is surprisingly simple, and the results are just incredible. Following these steps will ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, juicy, and infused with that signature sweet and savory flavor.
- First things first, let’s get that grill ready. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F (200°C). Make sure to oil your grill grates really well to prevent any sticking – nobody wants their delicious chicken to get stuck!
- Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the marinade. In a large bowl or a sturdy zip-top bag, combine all the marinade ingredients: 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/2 cup light soy sauce, 1/2 cup canned pineapple juice, 1 tablespoon ginger paste, 1 tablespoon garlic paste, 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth and fragrant.
- It’s important to set aside about 1/2 cup of this glorious marinade. This reserved sauce will be used to baste the chicken while it cooks, adding extra flavor and that beautiful sticky glaze.
- Next, add your 4-5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the remaining marinade. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated. For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight. This marinating time is key for tender, flavorful chicken.
- Once your chicken has had plenty of time to soak up all that goodness, it’s time for Huli Huli Chicken grilling! Place the marinated chicken thighs directly on the preheated grill.
- Grill the chicken for about 10 minutes on the first side. You’re looking for some nice char marks.
- Flip the chicken thighs and continue grilling for another 8-10 minutes. During this time, brush the chicken with the reserved marinade a couple of times. Keep an eye on the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- If you’re grilling pineapple rings, pop them on the grill alongside the chicken during the last few minutes. Grill them until they have lovely, lightly charred marks.
- Carefully remove the chicken and pineapple from the grill. Brush the chicken with a final coating of the reserved Huli Huli Chicken sauce.
- Garnish your masterpiece with 1/2 cup sliced green onions. Serve immediately with the grilled pineapple and your favorite side dishes for an unforgettable meal. The aromas during Huli Huli Chicken grilling are just out of this world!
Pro Tips for the Best Grilled Huli Huli Chicken
Want to elevate your Huli Huli Chicken game? These tips will help you achieve that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors every time.
- Always use boneless, skinless chicken thighs; they stay incredibly moist and absorb the marinade better than breasts.
- Don’t skip the marinating time! At least 4 hours is good, but overnight is even better for maximum flavor infusion.
- Grill in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the grill. This ensures even cooking and proper charring.
- Reserve some marinade for basting, but remember to bring it to a boil before using it on the cooked chicken to kill any bacteria.
What’s the secret to perfect Huli Huli Chicken?
The real magic for an Authentic Huli Huli Chicken lies in the perfect balance of the sweet and savory chicken marinade. Letting the brown sugar, pineapple juice, and soy sauce caramelize on the grill creates that signature sticky glaze.
Can I make Huli Huli Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can definitely marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. This extended marinating time really deepens the flavor for your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?
A common pitfall is overcooking, which makes the chicken dry. Always use a meat thermometer, aiming for 165°F (74°C). Also, ensure your grill grates are well-oiled to prevent sticking during the Huli Huli Chicken grilling process.
Best Ways to Serve Huli Huli Chicken
This delicious Huli Huli Chicken is fantastic on its own, but serving it with the right sides really makes it a complete Hawaiian feast. It’s the perfect centerpiece for any backyard BBQ or luau-inspired gathering.
- Serve your perfectly grilled Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken alongside grilled pineapple rings – they get wonderfully sweet and slightly charred on the grill, complementing the chicken’s glaze beautifully.
- For a truly satisfying meal, pair it with a scoop of fluffy white rice or coconut rice to soak up any extra marinade. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some steamed edamame also works wonderfully.
- Consider this an Aloha chicken recipe; it pairs perfectly with classic Hawaiian sides like macaroni salad or a fresh fruit salad for a vibrant and complete dining experience.
Nutrition Facts for Huli Huli Chicken
Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving for this delicious Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken. This recipe is packed with flavor, and understanding the nutrition can help you fit it into your meal plan.
- Calories: Estimated 350-400
- Fat: Estimated 15-20g
- Saturated Fat: Estimated 4-6g
- Protein: Estimated 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: Estimated 25-30g
- Fiber: Estimated 1-2g
- Sugar: Estimated 25-30g
- Sodium: Estimated 800-1000mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used for your Huli Huli Chicken recipe.
How to Store and Reheat Huli Huli Chicken
You’ve made a fantastic batch of Huli Huli Chicken, and now you’re wondering how to keep that deliciousness fresh! Proper storage is key to maintaining the flavor and texture of this wonderful Polynesian chicken recipe. Once the chicken has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. Stored this way in the refrigerator, your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken will stay tasty for about 3 to 4 days.
If you find yourself with extra chicken and want to save it for even longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, I love placing it in a hot skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side to get that nice glaze back. Alternatively, you can reheat it on a baking sheet in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps revive the sticky, sweet glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions About Huli Huli Chicken
What is Huli Huli Chicken?
Huli Huli Chicken is a beloved Hawaiian dish featuring chicken grilled with a sweet and savory marinade. The name “Huli Huli” means “turn turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the traditional method of rotating the chicken over the coals. This process allows the marinade to caramelize beautifully, creating a sticky, flavorful glaze.
What makes the Huli Huli Chicken sauce so special?
The signature Huli Huli Chicken sauce is a delicious blend of pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. This combination creates a unique sweet, tangy, and savory profile that is both addictive and incredibly satisfying. It’s what gives the chicken its distinctive flavor and beautiful glossy finish.
Can I make Huli Huli Chicken without a grill?
Absolutely! While grilling is traditional and imparts a wonderful smoky flavor, you can achieve delicious results using other methods. Baking in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until cooked through, or finishing under the broiler for a nice char, are great alternatives. You can also use a grill pan on the stovetop.
How do I get the best flavor from my Huli Huli Chicken marinade?
For the most intense flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the enzymes in the pineapple juice and the salt from the soy sauce to tenderize the meat and infuse it with all those delicious flavors. Don’t be afraid to let it sit!
Variations of Huli Huli Chicken You Can Try
While this classic Huli Huli Chicken recipe is amazing as is, there are so many fun ways to mix it up! Whether you have dietary needs or just want to experiment with flavors, these twists on the traditional Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken are sure to please.
- Gluten-Free Version: Easily make this dish gluten-free by swapping the soy sauce for coconut aminos or a gluten-free tamari. This keeps the savory depth while accommodating dietary needs.
- Spicy Kick: Want to add some heat? Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha into the marinade. This creates a wonderfully spicy and sweet contrast, making it a truly unique Polynesian chicken recipe.
- Oven-Baked Method: If grilling isn’t an option, don’t worry! Bake your marinated chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, then finish it under the broiler for a few minutes to get that lovely caramelization. This method still yields a fantastic Pineapple glazed chicken.
- Teriyaki-Style Twist: For a flavor profile closer to a classic Teriyaki chicken recipe Hawaiian style, you can slightly increase the brown sugar and add a touch of mirin to the marinade.
Delicious Huli Huli Chicken: 10 Minute Prep
- Total Time: 4.5 - 8.5 hours (including marinating)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy this authentic Huli Huli Chicken recipe, a Hawaiian-style grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and savory pineapple-soy glaze with ginger and garlic. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 4–5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup light soy sauce
- 1/2 cup canned pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
- Pineapple rings for grilling
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse chicken thighs and pat dry.
- In a large bowl or zip bag, whisk together brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, pineapple juice, ginger, garlic, vinegar, cumin, pepper, and paprika to create the Huli Huli chicken marinade.
- Set aside 1/2 cup of the marinade for basting or serving.
- Add chicken to the remaining marinade, ensuring it is well coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat grill to medium-high (around 400°F) and oil grates.
- Grill chicken for 10 minutes on one side, then flip and grill for another 8-10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Grill pineapple rings until lightly charred.
- Remove chicken and pineapple from grill. Brush chicken with reserved Huli Huli chicken sauce.
- Garnish with green onions and serve with grilled pineapple and a side dish.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use coconut aminos or gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Spice it up by adding red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade.
- If not grilling, bake at 375°F and finish under the broiler.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat leftovers in a hot skillet or under the broiler to restore texture.
- Cooked chicken freezes well for up to a month.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1 thigh)
- Calories: Estimated 350-400
- Sugar: Estimated 25-30g
- Sodium: Estimated 800-1000mg
- Fat: Estimated 15-20g
- Saturated Fat: Estimated 4-6g
- Unsaturated Fat: Estimated 10-14g
- Trans Fat: Estimated 0g
- Carbohydrates: Estimated 25-30g
- Fiber: Estimated 1-2g
- Protein: Estimated 30-35g
- Cholesterol: Estimated 100-120mg
