Authentic Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken: Easy Tropical Grilled Recipe

Aloha, grill masters and flavor seekers! Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Hawaii with our mouthwatering Huli Huli Chicken recipe. This island-inspired dish combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that will have you dreaming of palm trees and ocean breezes. Perfect for summer barbecues or anytime you need a tropical escape, this Huli Huli Chicken is sure to become a family favorite.

What is Huli Huli Chicken?

Huli Huli Chicken is a beloved Hawaiian dish that originated in the 1950s. The word “huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian, referencing the traditional cooking method of turning the chicken over a grill. This delicious recipe features chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce made with pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar, then grilled to smoky perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes
• Easy to Prepare: Simple marinade and grilling process
• Versatile: Great for backyard BBQs, weeknight dinners, or meal prep
• Kid-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser for all ages
• Authentic Taste: Brings the flavors of Hawaii right to your table

Key Ingredients for Huli Huli Chicken

• Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, perfect for grilling
• Pineapple Juice: Adds sweetness and helps tenderize the meat
• Soy Sauce: Provides savory umami flavor
• Brown Sugar: Balances the saltiness and aids in caramelization
• Ketchup: Adds depth and helps thicken the sauce
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Brings a tangy note to the marinade
• Ginger and Garlic: Essential aromatics for authentic flavor

How to Make Huli Huli Chicken

1. Prepare the Marinade: Whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, ginger, and garlic in a bowl.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag and pour in the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
3. Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Baste and Finish: In the last few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with reserved marinade for extra flavor and caramelization.
6. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Pro Tips for Perfect Huli Huli Chicken

• For extra flavor, grill some fresh pineapple slices alongside the chicken
• Don’t marinate for more than 24 hours, as the acid can start to break down the meat
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked without drying out
• For a spicier version, add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Huli Huli Chicken with:

• Steamed white rice
• Hawaiian macaroni salad
• Grilled vegetables
• Fresh pineapple slices

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

A: Yes, but adjust cooking time as breasts tend to cook faster and can dry out more easily.

Q: Is Huli Huli Chicken spicy?

A: Traditional Huli Huli Chicken is not spicy, but you can add heat if desired.

Q: Can I make this in the oven?

A: Absolutely! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, basting occasionally.

Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on making authentic Huli Huli Chicken, it’s time to fire up the grill and bring a taste of Hawaii to your backyard. Aloha and happy grilling!

Authentic Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

A delicious Hawaiian-inspired grilled chicken dish with a sweet and savory marinade. Perfect for summer BBQs or any time you're craving tropical flavors!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Marinate Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Hawaiian

Servings 6

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for grilling

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
• Reserve 1/2 cup of marinade for basting and refrigerate.
• Place chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag and pour remaining marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
• Preheat grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates.
• Remove chicken from marinade and discard used marinade.
• Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• In the last few minutes of cooking, brush with reserved marinade.
• Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• For best results, marinate chicken overnight.
• Do not use marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken for basting.
• Serve with grilled pineapple slices for an extra tropical touch.

Keywords huli chicken, huli huli chicken

Chris Johns

Chris is the founder of BBQ Report® and has been an avid barbecue fan for over 20 years. His mission is to make grilling and smoking the best food possible easy for everyone. And each year, he continues to help more people with grilling, smoking, and barbecue recipe recommendations.