Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian-inspired dish that features tender, juicy chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then grilled to perfection. The marinade, made with soy sauce, pineapple juice, ginger, and brown sugar, creates a caramelized glaze that gives the chicken its signature flavor. Perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners, this dish is a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Hawaiian Flavor – A perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy.
• Juicy and Tender – The marinade keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
• Great for Grilling – The caramelized glaze creates a beautiful char.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Marinate ahead of time for an easy, flavorful meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless or bone-in chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
• Soy sauce
• Pineapple juice
• Brown sugar
• Ketchup
• Fresh ginger (grated)
• Garlic (minced)
• Rice vinegar
• Sesame oil
• Green onions (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Make the Marinade

1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, grated ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

2. Place the chicken in a large resealable bag or bowl. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, reserving the rest for basting.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight for best flavor).

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

5. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the used marinade.
6. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

7. Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with rice, grilled pineapple, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha for some heat.
• Extra Pineapple Flavor – Grill pineapple slices alongside the chicken and serve on top.
• Oven-Baked Version – Bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes, basting halfway through.
• Air Fryer Option – Cook at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Different Proteins – Try this marinade with shrimp, pork chops, or tofu.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

What does “Huli Huli” mean?

“Huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian, referring to flipping the chicken while grilling.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs stay juicier. If using breasts, pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.

What’s the best wood for smoking Huli Huli chicken?

If smoking, use hickory, apple, or cherry wood for a mild, sweet flavor.

How can I make this without a grill?

You can cook it in a cast-iron skillet on the stovetop or bake it in the oven.

Can I marinate the chicken for too long?

Yes, avoid marinating for more than 24 hours, as the acidity can break down the meat too much.

What side dishes go well with Huli Huli chicken?

Serve with rice, macaroni salad, grilled pineapple, or a fresh cucumber salad.

Can I use canned pineapple juice?

Yes! Fresh or canned pineapple juice both work well.

How do I get a nice char on the chicken?

Baste frequently and let the sugars caramelize, but avoid high flames to prevent burning.

Can I make extra sauce for serving?

Yes, just boil the reserved marinade for a few minutes to make it safe to use as a sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

Conclusion

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is an easy and flavorful Hawaiian dish that’s perfect for summer grilling. The combination of sweet pineapple juice, savory soy sauce, and smoky char makes this a must-try recipe. Fire up the grill and enjoy this delicious, island-inspired meal today!

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