If you have ever dreamed of capturing the vibrant flavors of a Hawaiian luau right in your own backyard, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Huli Huli Chicken Recipe. This dish perfectly marries sweet, tangy, and smoky notes in a way that feels like a warm island breeze with every bite. The chicken is beautifully caramelized and juicy, infused with a marinade that balances pineapple juice’s tropical sweetness with the savory depth of soy sauce and the spicy kick of fresh ginger and garlic. Whether grilled or oven-roasted, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings a joyful burst of flavor to any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Huli Huli Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful selection of ingredients that contribute perfectly to its iconic taste and inviting aroma.
- 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks: Skin-on pieces ensure juicy meat with a crispy exterior when grilled.
- ½ cup soy sauce: Adds savory depth and umami richness essential to the marinade.
- ½ cup pineapple juice: Provides natural sweetness and tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Enhances caramelization and adds a rich molasses flavor.
- 2 tbsp ketchup: Brings a slight tang and helps balance the sweetness.
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar: Gives a bright acidity that lifts the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated): Introduces a zesty warmth that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Adds aromatic depth and a subtle bite.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil: Contributes a toasty, nutty essence for extra complexity.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional): Provides gentle smoky notes that mimic outdoor grilling.
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish: Adds freshness and a delightful crunch to the finished dish.
How to Make Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Begin by whisking together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, and smoked paprika in a medium bowl. This marinade is the heart of the dish, blending savory, sweet, and tangy elements into a perfect harmony. Reserve about ¼ cup for basting the chicken later, which will help build those beautiful layers of glaze on the grill.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken thighs or drumsticks into a large resealable bag or a shallow dish, then pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight marinating is ideal for maximum flavor penetration and tenderization. This step is key to unlocking that iconic Huli Huli Chicken taste.
Step 3: Heat Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat, aiming for a temperature that allows the chicken to cook slowly and evenly, developing a nice caramelized crust without burning. Proper heat control is crucial to achieving the perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy inside.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 30 to 35 minutes, turning the pieces occasionally for even cooking. During the last 10 minutes, baste with the reserved marinade multiple times to deepen that caramelized glaze and add moisture. You’re looking for a fully cooked interior paired with a sticky, flavorful exterior that’s irresistible.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Once grilled to perfection, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This helps keep every bite moist and succulent—truly the finishing touch for a dish that’s as mouthwatering as it is beautiful.
How to Serve Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Huli Huli Chicken, sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the top. These garnishes not only add vibrant color but also introduce fresh, crunchy textures and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the caramelized chicken perfectly.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs beautifully with classic Hawaiian sides like steamed white or coconut rice, bringing a mild creaminess to balance the bold marinade. Grilled pineapple slices or a crisp, tangy slaw also make fantastic accompaniments, enhancing the tropical vibe with sweetness and a refreshing crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken on skewers with chunks of grilled pineapple and bell peppers, turning it into a festive platter perfect for casual gatherings. Or, slice the meat and toss it into a vibrant salad with mixed greens and a light citrus dressing for a fresh, colorful meal that still packs that unmistakable Huli Huli punch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping it sealed prevents drying out and preserves those wonderful flavors so you can enjoy it again easily.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Huli Huli Chicken for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can brush a little extra reserved marinade or pineapple juice over the chicken before reheating to keep it moist and flavorful.
FAQs
What does “Huli Huli” mean?
“Huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian. The name refers to the traditional way of cooking this chicken by turning it over an open flame, often on a spit or rotisserie, allowing it to cook evenly and get that signature char.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or drumsticks?
While you can use chicken breasts, thighs or drumsticks are preferred for Huli Huli Chicken Recipe because they stay juicier and develop more flavor when grilled or roasted with skin on.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce, and your Huli Huli Chicken will be perfect for a gluten-free diet.
Can I make this in the oven instead of on a grill?
Absolutely. Roast the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 35 to 40 minutes, basting halfway through. It won’t have quite the smoky flavor, but it is still deliciously tender and caramelized.
What can I use if I don’t have pineapple juice?
You can substitute pineapple juice with orange juice mixed with a small amount of lemon juice to mimic the sweetness and acidity if pineapple juice isn’t available.
Final Thoughts
This Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is truly a gift to anyone who loves bold yet balanced flavors that bring a little island sunshine to the table. From the simple yet powerful marinade to the joy of grilling and sharing with friends or family, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Don’t hesitate — fire up your grill or oven and dive into this Hawaiian classic today!
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Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes (active time, excluding marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Huli Huli Chicken is a classic Hawaiian BBQ dish featuring tender, juicy chicken marinated in a sweet and savory blend of soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and spices. Grilled to caramelized perfection and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, this flavorful chicken is perfect for summer cookouts or any day you crave a taste of the islands.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
Marinade
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Garnish
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, and smoked paprika. Set aside ¼ cup of this marinade for basting later.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs or drumsticks in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium heat. Prepare it for direct grilling.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for 30 to 35 minutes, turning occasionally to cook evenly. During the last 10 minutes, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade to enhance flavor and promote caramelization.
- Rest and Garnish: Once the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C) and beautifully caramelized, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- For oven baking, roast the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, basting halfway through the cooking time to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Huli Huli Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, grilled pineapple, or a fresh, crisp slaw for a complete Hawaiian-inspired meal.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus at least 4 hours marinating time)
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
