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Welcome to your next grilling adventure! Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is vibrant and juicy, bringing a taste of the islands to your backyard. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll impress your friends and family at your next cookout. Get ready to learn how to marinate, grill, and serve this delicious chicken that captures the spirit of Hawaii. Let’s dive into the recipe and make some tasty memories!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Tropical Flavors: This recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory soy sauce, creating a delightful balance that transports you to a tropical paradise.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Grill Perfection: Grilling the chicken and pineapple adds a smoky flavor and beautiful caramelization that enhances the overall taste and presentation.
- Versatile Dish: This Huli Huli Chicken can be served with rice, salad, or fresh vegetables, making it a flexible option for any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
– 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/3 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1 tbsp minced garlic
– 1 tbsp ginger, grated
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
– 1 fresh pineapple, sliced (for grilling)
Marinade Ingredients
The marinade is the heart of this dish. It adds layers of taste to the chicken. Mix these ingredients well:
– Soy sauce gives a salty base.
– Brown sugar brings sweetness and caramelization.
– Ketchup adds a tangy twist.
– Pineapple juice provides a tropical flair.
– Minced garlic and grated ginger infuse fresh, zesty notes.
– Sesame oil enriches the blend with nutty depth.
– Black pepper and optional red pepper flakes add a hint of spice.
Optional Garnishes
To make your dish pop, consider these garnishes:
– Chopped green onion adds freshness and color.
– Grilled pineapple slices enhance the tropical theme.
– A sprinkle of sesame seeds can give extra crunch.
These ingredients come together to create a flavorful dish that’s both fun to cook and eat. Enjoy the grilling experience with family and friends!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Marinade
To start, gather your ingredients. You need soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, pineapple juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes for some heat. In a medium bowl, mix all these items. Whisk until the brown sugar dissolves. This creates a sweet and savory marinade that is key to the flavor of Huli Huli chicken.
Marinating the Chicken
Next, take 4 chicken thighs. I recommend using bone-in and skin-on thighs for extra taste. Place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a glass baking dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly. Put it in the fridge to marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight works best. This step lets the flavors soak in deeply.
Grilling the Chicken and Pineapple
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you use a charcoal grill, wait until the coals glow. While the grill heats, slice a fresh pineapple into rings or triangles. Keep the skin on for easier handling. Take the chicken out of the marinade, but save the marinade for basting. Place the chicken on the grill. Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side. Baste with the reserved marinade every few minutes. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
In the last few minutes, add the pineapple slices to the grill. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are caramelized and have nice grill marks. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve the grilled chicken on a platter with the grilled pineapple around it. Add chopped green onions for a bright finish. Enjoy your flavorful Huli Huli chicken!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Marinating
To get the best flavor, marinate your chicken for at least two hours. For deeper taste, marinate overnight. Use a resealable bag or a glass dish. This keeps the chicken well-coated in the marinade. Make sure to turn the chicken in the marinade for even flavor. If you can, poke a few holes in the chicken. This helps the marinade soak in better.
Grilling Tips for Perfect Chicken
Heat your grill to medium-high before adding chicken. This ensures a good sear and keeps the juices in. Place the chicken skin-side down first. Grill for six to seven minutes on each side. Use the reserved marinade to baste the chicken while it cooks. This adds flavor and moisture. Always check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Huli Huli Chicken on a large platter. Arrange grilled pineapple slices around it for a tropical touch. Drizzle any leftover marinade over the chicken for extra flavor. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh look. Pair this dish with rice or a light salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Hawaii right at home!
Pro Tips
- Marinate Longer for Flavor: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken thighs overnight. This allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Grill Temperature Matters: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it. This will help achieve a nice sear and prevent sticking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Serve with Fresh Ingredients: Garnish with fresh green onions and sesame seeds for an extra pop of color and flavor. It elevates the presentation and taste!

Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can swap chicken for other meats. Try pork or beef for a tasty twist. Tofu is great for a plant-based option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times. For pork, aim for 145°F (63°C). For beef, target 160°F (71°C). Tofu absorbs flavors well. Marinate it just like the chicken.
Flavor Variations for the Marinade
You can change the marinade to fit your taste. Add more ginger for a spicy kick. Try different fruit juices like orange or mango. If you want more heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes. You can also use honey instead of brown sugar for a unique sweetness.
Grilled Vegetable Pairings
Grilled veggies make a great side for Huli Huli chicken. Try bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. Marinate them in some of the same sauce. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes until tender. Serve them alongside the chicken for a colorful plate. You can mix and match your favorite vegetables for variety.
Storage Information
Storing Leftovers
After grilling, let the chicken cool down. Place the leftover chicken in an airtight container. Make sure the lid is tight. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. If you have grilled pineapple, store it in a separate container. It keeps well for about three days.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat the chicken, use the oven for best results. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm. You can also microwave it. Use a microwave-safe plate and cover it. Heat for about 1-2 minutes. Check to ensure it’s hot all the way through.
Freezing Tips
If you want to save the chicken for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze the chicken for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
What is Huli Huli Chicken?
Huli Huli Chicken is a popular Hawaiian dish. It features grilled chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. The marinade combines soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, pineapple juice, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. This mix gives the chicken a unique taste. The name “Huli Huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the way you grill the chicken.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
You should marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. However, for the best flavor, I recommend marinating overnight. This allows the chicken to soak up all the flavors from the marinade. The longer you marinate, the tastier your chicken will be.
Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Yes, you can cook Huli Huli Chicken in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What sides pair well with Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?
Many sides go well with Huli Huli Chicken, such as:
– Rice (white or brown)
– Grilled vegetables
– Coleslaw
– Corn on the cob
– Fresh fruit salad
These sides complement the flavors of the chicken and create a balanced meal.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, check its internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to see if it reaches 165°F (75°C). You can also cut into the thickest part of the chicken. If the juices run clear and there is no pink, it’s done. Always let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
We covered the key parts of making tasty Huli Huli Chicken. First, we listed all the main ingredients and marinades. Next, we shared easy steps for marinating and grilling. I included tips for the best results and variations for everyone’s taste. Finally, we talked about how to store leftovers and answered common questions.
I hope you feel ready to cook and enjoy this dish. Happy grillin
Huli Huli Chicken Delight
A delicious Hawaiian-style grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, served with grilled pineapple.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Hawaiian
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal
- 4 thighs chicken (bone-in, skin-on)
- 0.5 cup soy sauce
- 0.33 cup brown sugar
- 0.25 cup ketchup
- 0.25 cup pineapple juice
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp ginger (grated)
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 piece green onion (chopped, for garnish)
- 1 piece fresh pineapple (sliced, for grilling)
In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, pineapple juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk the marinade until the sugar is dissolved and well mixed.
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a glass baking dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for the best flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are glowing and spread evenly.
While the grill is heating, slice the fresh pineapple into rings or triangles, leaving the skin on for better handling.
Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and place the chicken on the preheated grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, basting with the reserved marinade every few minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
In the last few minutes of grilling, add the pineapple slices to the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until caramelized and grill marks appear.
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
To serve, place the grilled chicken on a platter with grilled pineapple slices around it. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color.
For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Keyword chicken, grilled, Hawaiian, marinade, pineapple
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