The vibrant flavors of Hawaii come alive in this juicy and smoky Grilled Huli Huli Chicken. It’s marinated in a mouthwatering blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of brown sugar that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Paired with sweet grilled pineapple slices and garnished with fresh green onions and sesame seeds, it delivers the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or simply craving a taste of the islands, this recipe brings tropical sunshine to your plate. It’s easy to prepare ahead, grill in minutes, and works beautifully with rice, grilled veggies, or even tossed in a salad. Huli Huli Chicken is not just a dish; it’s a Hawaiian tradition that’s impossible to resist.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
-
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
-
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
-
1/2 cup brown sugar
-
1/4 cup ketchup
-
1/4 cup pineapple juice
-
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
-
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tablespoon sesame oil
-
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
-
Fresh pineapple slices, for grilling
-
Chopped green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
-
In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and paprika.
-
Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
-
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
-
Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 5–7 minutes on each side, basting with reserved marinade, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
-
Grill pineapple slices alongside the chicken until caramelized and lightly charred.
-
Serve chicken topped with grilled pineapple, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marination) | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marination)
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Grilled Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken – A Taste of Island Paradise at Home
There’s something magical about Hawaiian cuisine that instantly transports you to a warm, breezy island filled with the scent of tropical fruits and sizzling barbecue. One such dish that captures the very essence of this culinary paradise is Huli Huli Chicken, a Hawaiian grilled chicken recipe known for its sweet, tangy, and smoky flavor profile. Whether you’re craving something unique for your summer cookout or looking to impress your dinner guests, Grilled Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is a crowd-pleasing favorite that delivers every time.
The Origins of Huli Huli Chicken
Huli Huli Chicken isn’t just a recipe, it’s a cultural gem born from the heart of Hawaii’s local food traditions. The term “huli” means “to turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the way this chicken is traditionally grilled between two racks and turned over repeatedly. The technique was popularized in the 1950s by Ernest Morgado, who began selling the dish at charity fundraisers. It quickly became a beloved staple across the islands, appearing at roadside stands, luau celebrations, and backyard cookouts.
Originally, the chicken was cooked over mesquite wood, giving it a deep, smoky flavor that mingled perfectly with the sweet pineapple-soy marinade. Today, while many home cooks use gas or charcoal grills, the essence of Huli Huli Chicken remains the same: beautifully marinated chicken grilled to juicy perfection and basted until it develops a sticky, caramelized glaze.
What Makes This Chicken Special?
At first glance, the ingredients may seem simple, but it’s their harmony that makes Huli Huli Chicken stand out. The marinade is a symphony of tropical flavors: sweet pineapple juice, umami-packed soy sauce, tangy rice vinegar, a hint of spice from ginger and garlic, and the molasses richness of brown sugar. These ingredients work together to tenderize the chicken while infusing it with deep flavor.
As the chicken grills, the sugars caramelize and create a glaze-like crust that’s both sticky and savory. Grilled pineapple slices, charred alongside the chicken, bring even more tropical flair and natural sweetness to each bite. It’s a sensory experience that excites the taste buds and evokes memories (or dreams) of island vacations.
Ingredients Breakdown and Substitutions
One of the best parts about this dish is its versatility. While chicken thighs are the most popular choice for their juicy texture and robust flavor, you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. Bone-in cuts work well too, just adjust the grilling time accordingly.
Let’s take a deeper look at the ingredients:
-
Soy Sauce: Provides a salty umami base. You can use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
-
Pineapple Juice: This is the soul of the marinade. Fresh or canned both work, but opt for 100% juice with no added sugars.
-
Brown Sugar: Offers sweetness and helps with caramelization. You can swap it for honey or coconut sugar if desired.
-
Ketchup: Adds tang and depth. Some people prefer tomato paste for a richer, less sweet flavor.
-
Rice Vinegar: Gives a subtle acidity to balance the sweetness. Apple cider vinegar is a suitable substitute.
-
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh is best, but powdered versions can be used in a pinch.
-
Sesame Oil: Infuses a nutty aroma. Use sparingly, it’s potent!
-
Smoked Paprika: Adds a touch of warmth and depth. Optional but highly recommended.
Optional toppings like sesame seeds and chopped green onions add texture and color, while grilled pineapple slices serve as a juicy, sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
Tips for the Best Huli Huli Chicken
-
Marinate Long Enough: Let the chicken marinate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The longer it soaks, the more flavor it absorbs.
-
Don’t Skip the Basting: Basting with reserved marinade while grilling builds layers of flavor and enhances that iconic sticky-sweet crust.
-
Use Medium Heat: High heat can cause the sugars to burn. Medium to medium-high heat is ideal for caramelization without scorching.
-
Let it Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps redistribute juices and ensures moist, tender meat.
Perfect Pairings for Huli Huli Chicken
While Huli Huli Chicken can absolutely shine on its own, pairing it with sides makes for a full Hawaiian-inspired meal. Here are some excellent choices:
-
Coconut Rice: A fragrant side that complements the tropical sweetness of the chicken.
-
Grilled Veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions work wonderfully with the smoky flavor.
-
Macaroni Salad: A classic Hawaiian plate lunch side, creamy and slightly tangy.
-
Pineapple Slaw: Crunchy and refreshing, this balances the richness of the chicken.
Beverage pairings can include tropical fruit punches, pineapple iced tea, or even a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling rosé.
Serving Ideas and Occasions
Huli Huli Chicken isn’t just for weeknight dinners, it’s a star at any summer party, cookout, or potluck. Serve it at:
-
Backyard BBQs
-
Family reunions
-
Poolside gatherings
-
Luau-themed parties
-
Casual dinner with friends
The vibrant colors and bold flavors also make it a hit at festive occasions and holiday cookouts.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This chicken recipe is great for meal prep. Marinate it ahead, and you can grill it fresh on the day you’re serving. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days and are delicious reheated. You can even shred the meat and use it in tacos, wraps, or rice bowls.
To freeze, place cooked chicken in an airtight container and store for up to 2 months. Reheat on a skillet or microwave, brushing with extra marinade or sauce to bring back its juiciness.
Conclusion
Grilled Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is the ultimate blend of simplicity and flavor. With its sweet-savory glaze, juicy texture, and tropical flair, it’s more than just a grilled chicken recipe, it’s a culinary escape to paradise. Whether you’re recreating memories of a Hawaiian vacation or introducing your family to new flavors, this dish offers comfort, excitement, and sunshine on a plate.
Easy enough for busy weeknights and impressive enough for special occasions, Huli Huli Chicken is a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again. So fire up the grill, grab a slice of pineapple, and say aloha to your new favorite chicken dinner.