Name: Grill Up Flavorful Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tonight!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 26 min
Total time: 36 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (Juicy and tender, perfect for grilling.); 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Helps prevent sticking on the grill.); ½ cup Soy Sauce (Brings savory umami flavor.); ⅓ cup Brown Sugar (Contributes sweetness and caramelization.); ½ cup Pineapple Juice (Adds tropical flair and acidity.); ¼ cup Ketchup (Provides sweetness and thickness.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Ginger, Minced (Imparts aromatic warmth.); 3 cloves Garlic, Minced (Elevates the overall taste.); 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar (Offers acidity to balance sweetness.); ½ teaspoon Black Pepper (Adds a mild kick.); 2 tablespoons Chopped Green Onion (Adds fresh crunch and color.); Sesame Seeds (optional) (Delivers a nutty flavor and texture.)

As I stood in my backyard, the sweet scent of sizzling chicken wafted through the air, transporting me to a sun-kissed Hawaiian beach. This Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken recipe is a delightful journey of flavors, bringing together juicy, marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection. With an irresistible glaze crafted from tangy pineapple juice and savory soy sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in just 36 minutes! Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this quick and easy dish elevates any meal with a tropical twist. So, are you ready to turn your grill into a little piece of paradise?

Why Is Huli Huli Chicken So Special?

Unforgettable Flavor: The tropical essence of pineapple and soy sauce transforms each bite into a flavorful escape.

Quick & Convenient: With only 36 minutes from prep to grill, you can impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Versatile Dish: Perfect for gatherings, serve with rice, or fresh salad, it adapts beautifully to your meal plans.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This recipe is sure to be a hit, reminiscent of Hawaiian luaus, evoking smiles and compliments. Once you master this, consider trying a Chopped Chicken Bacon for an easy weeknight meal!

Easy to Customize: Feel free to tweak the marinade with your favorite spices or add vegetables for a vibrant grilled dish. Enjoy a taste of Hawaii tonight!

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Ingredients

• Discover the perfect flavors for your tropical escape!

For the Chicken

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – A juicy and tender main protein, perfect for grilling.
Vegetable Oil – Helps prevent sticking on the grill; can substitute with canola oil if desired.

For the Marinade

Soy Sauce – Brings a savory umami flavor; low-sodium soy sauce will reduce the saltiness.
Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and caramelization; swap in honey for a natural substitute.
Pineapple Juice – Adds tropical flair and acidity to tenderize meat; fresh juice gives the best flavor.
Ketchup – Provides sweetness and thickness; consider barbecue sauce for a smokier taste.
Fresh Ginger, Minced – Imparts aromatic warmth; ground ginger works in a pinch but changes the flavor slightly.
Garlic, Minced – Elevates the overall taste; garlic powder can serve as a good stand-in.
Rice Vinegar – Offers acidity to balance sweetness; use apple cider vinegar as an alternative.
Black Pepper – Adds a mild kick; freshly cracked is ideal for optimal flavor.

For Garnishing

Chopped Green Onion – Adds a fresh crunch and color; cilantro can be a lovely substitute.
Sesame Seeds (optional) – Delivers a nutty flavor and texture; can be left out if preferred.

Capture the taste of Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken with these delightful ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Marinade
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together ½ cup soy sauce, ⅓ cup brown sugar, ½ cup pineapple juice, ¼ cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger, 3 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, and ½ teaspoon black pepper until the sugar is dissolved. The marinade should have a smooth consistency and aromatic appeal, setting the stage for flavorful Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken
Place 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish, pouring the prepared marinade over the chicken to ensure even coverage. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or for maximum flavor, overnight. This infusion of flavors is crucial for achieving that delicious Huli Huli taste.

Step 3: Preheat Grill
About 15 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the grill is hot enough to create those lovely char marks while sealing in the juices of the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken. Prepare your grill grates by lightly brushing them with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Remove Chicken
Once marinated, take the chicken out of the refrigerator. Allow the excess marinade to drip off, ensuring it’s not overly wet. Discard any leftover marinade that has touched raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination. At this point, your chicken should be glistening and ready to hit the grill, promising succulent flavor.

Step 5: Grill Chicken
Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill, cooking for 6-8 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. Watch for a beautifully charred exterior and juicy meat to emerge, signaling they’re nearly ready to devour.

Step 6: Baste (Optional)
In the last few minutes of grilling, you can brush the chicken with any reserved marinade (that hasn’t touched raw chicken) to enhance the flavor. This step adds an extra layer of glaze while caramelizing the sugars for a mouthwatering finish on your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken.

Step 7: Rest Chicken
Once grilled to perfection, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice of Huli Huli Chicken is tender and packed with flavor.

Step 8: Garnish & Serve
Just before serving, garnish the grilled chicken with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a pop of color and texture. Pair your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken with steamed rice or a fresh garden salad for a delightful tropical feast that family and friends will love!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?

Transform your meal into a tropical feast with delightful sides that beautifully complement the smoky, sweet flavors of this dish.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, this rice absorbs the flavorful glaze, creating a harmonious balance with the savory chicken.
Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of juicy pineapple, mango, and kiwi adds brightness and sweetness, perfectly enhancing the dish’s tropical vibe.
Grilled Pineapple Slices: Caramelized on the grill, these sweet slices echo the chicken’s pineapple flavors, adding a warm and juicy contrast. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra treat!
Crisp Garden Salad: Tossed greens with a citrus vinaigrette provide a refreshing crunch, cutting through the richness of the glaze while adding vibrant colors.
Coleslaw with a Twist: A creamy coleslaw with a hint of pineapple adds a tangy crunch that complements the savory chicken, making each bite a delightful experience.
Cold Beer or Mai Tai: Pair with a chilled beer or a classic Mai Tai for an added touch of island flair, enhancing the festive atmosphere of your meal.

Mix and match these ideas to create a flavorful feast that transports your taste buds straight to Hawaii!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate overnight enhances the flavor. Short marination can result in less richness.
Check Grill Temperature: Always preheat your grill to medium-high. A low heat can lead to uneven cooking and dry chicken.
Avoid Cross-Contamination: Discard any marinade that touched raw chicken. To reuse, boil it first to ensure food safety.
Baste Wisely: If basting with leftover marinade, only do it during the last minutes of cooking for a flavorful glaze without risk.
Resting Time Matters: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling keeps it juicy. Cutting too soon may lead to dry meat.
Customize the Flavor: Feel free to adjust the marinade ingredients, like adding spices for a personal touch to your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken!

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Fridge: Store cooked Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken moist while preserving its delicious flavors.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Make sure to label it with the date for easy next-use identification.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the grill or microwave until heated through—this helps maintain the juicy texture and flavor.

Leftovers: Any leftover marinade can be safely boiled and used to baste during reheating, adding extra depth to the already flavorful Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken are a fantastic meal prep option for busy home cooks! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply and ensuring tender, juicy results. Simply whisk together the marinade ingredients, coat the chicken, and refrigerate. Additionally, you can grill the chicken and store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; just reheat on the grill or in the microwave before serving. Remember to avoid reusing marinade that touched raw chicken unless boiled first to maintain quality and safety. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go with minimal effort!

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore exciting twists on this iconic dish, bringing your personal touch to every bite!

Lean Option: Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a lighter meal without compromising flavor.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for firm tofu, marinating and grilling it to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
Spicy Kick: Add Sriracha or red chili flakes to the marinade for a zesty, heat-packed version. You’ll feel the warmth with every mouthful!
Tropical Fruit Boost: Incorporate grilled pineapple or mango slices alongside the chicken for an extra burst of sweetness and color on your plate. Their caramelized edges create a delightful contrast!
Grilled Veggies: Toss a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and onions on the grill alongside the chicken to add a colorful, nutritious touch and a hint of smokiness to your meal.
Honey Alternative: Replace brown sugar with honey for a different sweetness dimension; it enhances the glaze beautifully and brings a floral note.
Herb Infusion: Infuse the marinade with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a refreshing twist that brightens the dish. The aromatic notes will enhance your grilling experience!
Savory Sauces: Experiment with adding teriyaki sauce or a hint of barbecue sauce to the marinade for a rich and smoky flavor profile, perfect for summer gatherings.

With these variations, you’re sure to find a version of Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken that suits your taste! Want to try another delicious chicken dish? Check out my Lemon Garlic Chicken for a refreshing spin!

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken thighs that are plump and moist. Avoid any with dark spots or an unpleasant odor. For a leaner option, you can also use chicken breasts, but thighs provide a juicier texture when grilled.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?
Store your cooked Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This method helps keep the chicken moist while retaining its delightful flavors—perfect for those quick meals during the week!

Can I freeze Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?
Yes! For longer-lasting enjoyment, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container, and it will stay good for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the bag with the date so you can remember when you made it! When you’re ready to savor it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the grill or in the microwave.

What should I do if the chicken isn’t cooking evenly on the grill?
Very common! If you notice uneven cooking, check your grill temperature—make sure it’s preheated to medium-high heat around 400°F (200°C). Also, avoid overcrowding the grill; giving each piece space will promote even cooking. If necessary, move pieces around on the grill for a more balanced heat distribution.

Are there any dietary considerations for my guests with allergies?
It’s important to consider food allergies. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce. Additionally, you might want to check on your guests’ preferences regarding garlic and onion, as these can be common allergens. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to ask prior to serving!

Can I customize the marinade?
Absolutely! One of the great things about Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is its versatility. You can tweak the marinade to suit your taste—try adding some Sriracha for heat or swapping in different sugars like coconut sugar for a unique twist. Get creative and make it your own!