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The vibrant flavors of Hawaiian cuisine have a way of transporting me to sun-kissed beaches and swaying palm trees. When I first tasted Huli Huli Chicken at a local luau, the sweet and savory notes danced on my palate, igniting a passion for the tropics that I could not shake. This delightful dish features juicy boneless chicken thighs marinated in a luscious blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice, then grilled to perfection.

Whether you’re clamoring for a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress friends at your next barbecue, this recipe is your ticket to culinary paradise. Each bite bursts with a tantalizing smokiness, perfectly complemented by a touch of tropical sweetness. Follow along as I guide you through the steps to create this crowd-pleaser, bringing the spirit of Hawaii straight to your home kitchen. Get ready to fire up your grill and savor the deliciousness!

Why is Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken a Must-Try?

Savor the sweetness: This recipe blends juicy chicken thighs with a marinade of soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Grill like a pro: With simple steps, you’ll impress your friends with restaurant-quality results right from your backyard.
Versatile meal: Enjoy it with rice, veggies, or in a tropical-inspired salad for a complete feast.
Quick prep time: Marinate the chicken ahead, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves a dish that combines a hint of smokiness with tropical flavors, ensuring seconds are guaranteed!

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Ingredients

Prepare for an explosion of flavors with this indulgent dish!

For the Marinade

Soy Sauce – Adds umami richness; tamari can be swapped for a gluten-free option.
Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps in caramelization; coconut sugar is a great substitute for lower glycemic index.
Pineapple Juice – Brings a fruity tang and tenderizes the meat; fresh juice ensures the best vibrant flavor.
Ketchup – Contributes both sweetness and a mild acidity; BBQ sauce can be used for a smoky twist.
Vegetable Oil – Aids in marinating and prevents sticking; olive oil makes a healthier alternative.
Fresh Ginger – Infuses warmth and zest; use powdered ginger if you don’t have fresh.
Garlic – Deepens the savory notes; adjust based on your garlic preference.
Rice Vinegar – Balances the sweet elements; apple cider vinegar can serve as a good substitute.
Black Pepper – Enhances seasoning; freshly ground will elevate the flavor.

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs – Offers the juiciness and structure needed for grilling; skinless is a healthier option.

For the Garnish

Green Onion – Adds freshness and color; chives are a good alternative if needed.
Sesame Seeds – Optional garnish providing a nutty crunch; omit if allergic.

Get everything prepped, and you’ll be ready to create the unforgettable Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken that’s bound to become a family favorite!

How to Make Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, ketchup, vegetable oil, fresh ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and black pepper. This fragrant blend sets the stage for flavor.
Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag, then pour the prepared marinade over them. Seal the bag ensuring all the chicken sides are coated, and refrigerate for at least one hour—overnight is even better!
Preheat Grill: While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This allows for a perfect sear on your chicken.
Remove Chicken: When you’re ready to grill, take out the chicken from the marinade and drain any excess. This helps achieve that beautifully caramelized exterior.
Grill Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfectly juicy results.
Baste (Optional): If desired, you can brush the chicken with any leftover marinade during the last few minutes of grilling for extra flavor.
Rest Chicken: Once grilled, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes—this step is key for retaining those tasty juices when you slice it.
Garnish: Finally, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top before serving. This adds not just flavor but a burst of color to your dish!

Optional: Serve with a slice of grilled pineapple for that extra tropical flair!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat for extra tenderness. Simply prepare the marinade, combine it with the chicken in a resealable bag, and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. Also, if you want to chop green onions or gather your garnishes ahead of time, you can do so up to 3 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator for freshness. When ready to serve, just grill the marinated chicken and garnish it with green onions and sesame seeds for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Variations & Substitutions for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your favorite dish, inviting the warm, tropical flavors to shine even more!

Chicken Breasts: Swap chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Just be sure to monitor cooking time for juiciness.
Honey: Replace brown sugar with honey for a natural sweetness that enhances the marinade’s flavor profile. Use slightly less honey due to its greater sweetness.
Mango Juice: Give your marinade a fruity twist by using mango juice instead of pineapple juice. This adds a lovely floral note to each bite!
Cayenne Pepper: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. A little heat beautifully contrasts the sweetness.
Coconut Aminos: Make it soy-free by using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. This alternative keeps the umami flavor with a hint of sweetness.
Grilled Pineapple: For extra tropical flair, add slices of fresh pineapple to the grill alongside the chicken. They’ll caramelize beautifully and enhance the overall dish.
Rice Vinegar Boost: If you love tang, increase the rice vinegar slightly for more acidity, balancing the sweetness in a delightful way.
Chili Garlic Sauce: For an added depth of flavor, stir in some chili garlic sauce into the marinade. It brings flavor diversity, pairing wonderfully with the sweet marinade!

Let these variations spark your creativity and bring a personalized touch to your amazing Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Perfect Marinade Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight yields the best flavor in your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken.
Grill Preheating: Always preheat your grill before adding the chicken. This ensures a good sear and prevents sticking, resulting in a flavorful crust.
Avoid Overcrowding: Give each piece of chicken enough space on the grill. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than achieving that desired smoky flavor.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid dry chicken, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for juicy results.
Resting is Key: Let the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices locked in, making every bite succulent and tender.

What to Serve with Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?

The delightful flavors of your Huli Huli Chicken deserve the perfect companions, creating a meal that transports your taste buds to the islands.

Steamed Rice: A fluffy base that soaks up the delicious marinade, providing a perfect balance to the menu.
Grilled Pineapple: Enhances the tropical theme with sweetness and a touch of caramel from the grill, making it a bright, juicy delight.
Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, mango, and avocado adds freshness and a tangy contrast to the savory chicken.
Coconut Rice: Infusing coconut milk into your rice introduces a creamy richness that pairs magnificently with the chicken’s sweet and savory flavors.
Sautéed Vegetables: Colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and snap peas stir-fried in garlic make for both a crunchy texture and a nutritious side.
Tropical Fruit Salad: A mixture of pineapple, kiwi, and berries brings a refreshing zing, perfectly complementing the rich grilled flavors.
Cold Beer or Tropical Cocktail: A chilled lager or a fruity Mai Tai enhances the overall Hawaiian experience, adding a festive touch to your meal.
Macaroni Salad: A creamy, tangy side dish that provides comfort, balancing the bold flavors of the chicken with its cool, smooth texture.

With these pairings, your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken will shine as the star of a memorable meal!

Storage Tips for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to ensure freshness and prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat the chicken in the microwave or on a grill until warmed through to maintain the juicy texture of your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken.

Airtight Storage: Always wrap or seal your chicken properly to minimize air exposure, preserving flavors and preventing freezer burn.

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for Huli Huli Chicken?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the best results. They retain moisture and flavor during grilling. If you prefer a leaner option, you can also use chicken breasts, but they may require extra attention to ensure they don’t dry out.

How should I store leftovers of Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow the chicken to cool down before sealing it to prevent condensation, which could make the chicken soggy.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, place the cooked chicken in a sealed freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating. For best results, reheat gently on the grill or in the microwave until warmed through.

What should I do if the chicken is dry after grilling?
If you find your chicken turns out dry, I recommend monitoring the internal temperature closely next time. Use a meat thermometer to aim for 165°F (75°C) as the ideal temperature. If it does happen, consider adding a flavorful sauce or glaze to moisten and enhance the taste when serving.

Is Huli Huli Chicken suitable for those with allergies?
Great question! The primary allergens in this recipe are soy and sesame. For those with soy allergies, try using coconut aminos as a substitute for soy sauce, and skip the sesame seeds if there are nut allergies. Always check all ingredients for potential allergens.

How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked?
To ensure perfectly cooked Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken without touching the bone. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear, indicating that it’s cooked through!