Name: Delicious Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken for Summer Grilling
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 46 min
Ingredients: 4 thighs Chicken (Boneless, may substitute for breasts); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Packed tightly); 1/4 cup Ketchup; 3/4 cup Pineapple Juice (Essential for sweetness); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce; 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar; 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger (Fresh for extra kick); 3 cloves Minced Garlic (Fresh is best); 1 teaspoon Paprika; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Sriracha (Optional); 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Oil; 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil (For greasing grill); 1 cup Pineapple Rounds (To grill alongside chicken); 1/4 cup Green Onions (For garnish)

As the sun begins to set on a warm summer evening, the tantalizing aroma of grilled chicken wafts through the air, instantly transporting you to the Hawaiian islands. This Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of sweet and savory flavors, thanks to a heavenly marinade of brown sugar and pineapple juice. What’s even better? This dish comes together quickly, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or last-minute cookouts. With its sticky glaze and tender grilled chicken, you’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Are you ready to uncover the secrets of this delightful dish and impress your loved ones with a taste of paradise right from your backyard?

Why is Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken a Must-Try?

Juicy chicken thighs coated in a luscious marinade create a dish that’s bursting with flavor—perfect for summer grilling! Easy to make, this recipe requires minimal prep, making it ideal for busy weekends or spontaneous gatherings. Tropical twist of pineapple juice adds a unique sweetness that sets this apart from typical grilled chicken recipes. Plus, it pairs beautifully with sides like coconut rice or grilled corn for a complete meal. You’ll find that this crowd-pleaser not only satisfies the taste buds but also evokes a feel-good, island vibe at your get-togethers!

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create this mouthwatering dish that embodies the spirit of Hawaiian cuisine!

For the Marinade

Chicken Thighs – The best choice for juiciness; you may swap for breasts, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Brown Sugar – Adds the perfect sweetness and helps achieve that beautiful caramelized crust; pack it tightly!
Ketchup – Provides acidity and a tangy balance to the sweetness of the marinade.
Pineapple Juice – Essential for fruity sweetness and tenderizing the chicken, authentic to the Huli Huli Chicken experience.
Soy Sauce – Infuses umami flavor and saltiness that perfectly balances the sweetness.
Worcestershire Sauce – Adds depth of flavor to the marinade, enhancing overall taste.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Introduces acidity that brightens the dish beautifully.
Ground Ginger – A warm spice to round out the sweet and savory notes; opt for fresh ginger for an extra kick.
Minced Garlic – For an aromatic touch; fresh is best for maximum flavor.
Paprika – Offers a mild heat and depth, elevating the overall flavor profile.
Black Pepper – Delivers a subtle peppery warmth; adjust according to your preference.
Sriracha (optional) – For those who crave a bit of heat; customize the amount to your taste.
Toasted Sesame Oil – Adds a delightful nutty flavor that complements the marinade perfectly.

For Grilling

Vegetable Oil – Utilize for greasing the grill grates, ensuring your chicken won’t stick.
Pineapple Rounds – Grill alongside the chicken for an extra layer of flavor and eye-catching presentation.
Green Onions – Serve as a garnish for a fresh, colorful finish that contrast the sweetness of the chicken.

Get ready to savor the tropical flavors of Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken at your next BBQ!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, mix together brown sugar, ketchup, pineapple juice, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, minced garlic, paprika, black pepper, and toasted sesame oil. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-combined, ensuring the sugar dissolves. This flavorful marinade is the heart of your Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken, setting the stage for a delicious meal.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Reserve ½ cup of the marinade for basting later, and pour the remaining marinade over the boneless chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or dish. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion. Letting the chicken soak in this sweet and savory mixture ensures every bite is packed with tropical goodness.

Step 3: Bring Chicken to Room Temperature
About 20-30 minutes before grilling, remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. This step is essential for ensuring even cooking and juiciness. Allow the chicken to rest uncovered on the countertop while you prepare your grill, letting it come to room temperature for the best grilling results.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature range of 400–425°F. While the grill heats up, take a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil and grease the grates to prevent sticking. This simple act helps achieve those beautiful grill marks on your Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken, enhancing both flavor and appearance.

Step 5: Sear the Chicken
Once the grill is ready, place the marinated chicken thighs on the hot grates. Sear them for about 6 minutes without moving to achieve a nice char and grill marks. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes; the exterior will begin to caramelize beautifully, creating that signature sticky glaze characteristic of the Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken.

Step 6: Baste and Finish Cooking
Brush the chicken with the reserved marinade for that irresistible glaze, then continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Flip the chicken again, baste once more, and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, which should take about 15-16 minutes in total. This careful attention to cooking time ensures your chicken is perfectly juicy and flavorful.

Step 7: Let the Chicken Rest
When cooked to perfection, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, keeping your Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken tender and moist when you slice into it.

Step 8: Grill the Pineapple
During the resting time, grill the pineapple rounds on the same grates for approximately 3-4 minutes. Turn them halfway through cooking to achieve nice grill marks and caramelize the natural sugars. These delicious, sweet slices make a wonderful accompaniment to the chicken, enhancing its tropical flavor profile.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Slice the rested chicken and arrange it on a serving platter alongside the caramelized pineapple. Garnish generously with chopped green onions for a bright pop of color and flavor contrast. This beautiful presentation of your Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken is sure to impress your guests and elevate your grilling experience!

Make Ahead Options

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they soak up all that delicious flavor. Simply mix the marinade, refrigerate the marinated chicken in an airtight container, and it will be ready for grilling when you are. Additionally, you can prepare and grill the pineapple rounds ahead of time, storing them in the fridge to maintain their sweetness and texture for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just give the chicken time to come to room temperature, then grill as directed for just as tasty results with minimal effort!

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore these personalized touches to elevate your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken experience!

Bone-In Thighs: Swap chicken thighs for bone-in thighs for deeper flavor. Cooking time may adjust, but it’s worth it for that robust taste.
Turkey Thighs: For a lighter option, use turkey thighs instead. They’ll still be moist and delicious with the same marinade, perfect for a family-friendly feast!
Citrus Juice: Replace pineapple juice with orange or mango juice for a fresh twist. This simple change adds a bright and zesty flavor that keeps it exciting!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs, such as cilantro or basil, to customize the marinade. Each herb brings its own unique flavor, enhancing your dish beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add fresh jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the marinade. This simple touch will take your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken to new heat levels.
Grilled Veggies: Toss some sliced bell peppers or zucchini on the grill while the chicken cooks for a colorful side. They’ll absorb the smoky, sweet flavors and add a veggie boost!
Gluten-Free Swap: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative. You won’t sacrifice flavor while keeping the dish friendly for all diets.
Tropical Garnish: Top with sliced avocado or mango for an added layer of creaminess and tropical flair. This will not only enhance the flavor but also create a stunning presentation!

For more grilled chicken inspiration, don’t miss out on my recipe for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken, and see how my Flavor Packed Chicken can add new dimensions to your family dinners!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Summer grilling is not complete without delicious sides that enhance the tropical flavors of your main dish.

Coconut Rice: The creamy texture of coconut rice pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the Huli Huli chicken, creating a luscious mouthfeel. A sprinkle of shredded coconut on top will whisk your taste buds away to paradise!
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Smoky and sweet, grilled corn is a classic favorite. Slather it with chili lime butter for an extra kick that beautifully complements the savory glaze of the chicken.
Refreshing Cabbage Slaw: A crisp, tangy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken. Its crunch adds a refreshing contrast to the soft textures of the grilled fare.
Mango Salsa: Bright and fruity mango salsa offers a vibrant, zesty taste that contrasts the sweet and savory flavors of Huli Huli chicken. The lime juice adds a refreshing zing that’s perfect for summer.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus brings an earthy note and satisfying crunch to your meal. Drizzle with lemon juice for a touch of brightness that enhances every bite.
Pineapple Coconut Smoothie: To sip on while enjoying your feast, whip up a tropical smoothie with pineapple, coconut milk, and a banana. It’s an invigorating drink that complements the dish’s flavors while keeping you cool!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Marinade Timing: Avoid applying the marinade too early during grilling to prevent burning; reserve it for the last minutes to achieve a glossy finish.

Room Temperature: Always bring your marinated chicken to room temperature before grilling for even cooking and a juicier result.

Manage Flare-Ups: Keep a water spray bottle handy to manage flare-ups caused by the sugar in the marinade, ensuring a smooth grilling experience.

Resting Period: Letting the chicken rest for at least 10 minutes post-grilling is crucial for moisture retention, ensuring bite after bite is succulent.

Basting Wisely: Use reserved marinade for basting while grilling, but be cautious not to apply it too early to maintain that delicious, sticky glaze on your Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken.

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; the flavors will deepen, making each bite even more enjoyable the next day.

Freezer: Freeze the marinated chicken in a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling for the best results.

Reheating: Gently reheat grilled chicken in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or on the grill for a few minutes, brushing with a bit of reserved marinade for extra flavor.

Room Temperature: If serving as leftovers, let the Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken sit out for no more than 2 hours to maintain food safety.

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe pineapple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for pineapples that have a sweet fragrance at the base and are slightly soft when pressed. Avoid any with dark spots all over, as these may indicate overripeness. Fresh pineapple will provide the best flavor for your Huli Huli chicken!

How should I store leftovers of Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?
Very easily! Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen the next day, making every bite more enjoyable.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?
Yes, you can! For best results, freeze marinated chicken in a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling for optimal juiciness and flavor.

What should I do if my chicken is not grilling evenly?
If you notice uneven grilling, it’s likely because the chicken was too cold when it hit the grill. Make sure to allow the marinated chicken to come to room temperature before grilling. Also, preheating the grill to the right temperature (400–425°F) is essential for achieving that perfect sear and preventing sticking.

Are there any dietary considerations for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?
Certainly! If you’re serving this dish to guests with allergies, be mindful of the soy sauce as it contains gluten. Look for gluten-free soy sauce alternatives if needed. Additionally, Sriracha can be omitted if any guests have a sensitivity to spicy foods. Always let your guests know the full list of ingredients!

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption. To check, you can use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh. For perfectly juicy chicken, allow it to rest for 10 minutes after grilling. This helps keep all those delicious juices intact!