I remember the first time I tasted Huli Huli Chicken Recipe while on a laid-back trip to Maui. The scent was magnetic, a mix of smoky barbecue and tropical sweetness that made my mouth water before I even took a bite. I couldn’t stop devouring it! When I got back home, I knew I had to try and replicate that unforgettable flavor.
To my surprise, it wasn’t as hard as I thought. If you’re a fan of barbecue and bold flavors, this dish will change your grilling game. Trust me, once you make this dish for your family or friends, you’ll become the chef everyone talks about.
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, a casual dinner, or just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this Huli Huli chicken recipe is a must-try. Let’s get into the details so you can create your version of this Hawaiian classic.
Cooking Time for Huli Huli Chicken
Getting the perfect Huli Huli chicken isn’t just about flavor; timing plays a big part too! Here’s how to get your schedule in sync with this recipe:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes (includes marinating prep)
- Cooking Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes (including marination)
- Total Time Needed: 4 hours and 45 minutes
Time-Saving Tips:
- Prepare the marinade the night before to save time on cooking day.
- If you’re short on time, look for pre-cut chicken pieces to minimize prepping.
- Always have your grill preheated for even cooking!
By planning ahead, you’ll find this recipe to be seamless and stress-free.
Tools You’ll Need Before Starting
To master this recipe, a well-stocked kitchen with the right equipment is key. Here’s a list of essentials you’ll need:
- Sharp Knife – For slicing or trimming chicken if needed.
- Mixing Bowl – Ideal for prepping the marinade.
- Whisk – Helps blend the sauce smoothly.
- Brush – For basting the chicken with marinade on the grill.
- Tongs – Makes flipping the chicken easier and safer.
- Grill or Grill Pan – A charcoal grill works best to get that smoky flavor, but a stovetop grill pan works in a pinch.
- Instant-Read Thermometer – Ensures the chicken is cooked to perfection (cook to 165°F).
⭐Tip for success: Keep aluminum foil handy in case parts of the chicken start to brown too quickly while grilling.
Now that your tools are ready, it’s time to explore the ingredients!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Huli Huli chicken lies in its mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Here’s what you need:
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (adds tropical sweetness)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (for that umami kick)
- 1/4 cup ketchup (gives a nice balance of sweetness)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for caramelized goodness)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (adds tanginess)
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced (for a warm, spicy note)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (essential for flavor depth)
- 2 lbs of chicken thighs or drumsticks (dark meat stays juicy on the grill)
- You can swap for chicken breasts or wings if you prefer!
Optional Add-Ons:
- A dash of sriracha or chili flakes for those who like heat.
- Fresh pineapple chunks for grilling alongside the chicken.
⭐ Want a lighter version? Replace brown sugar with honey and use skinless chicken for a healthier twist.
Now that you’ve got the ingredients ready, it’s time to cook!
🍴 Huli Huli Chicken Recipe Step-by-Step
Who’s ready to make some finger-licking Huli Huli Chicken? Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a juicy, flavorful meal in no time!
🥣 Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Mix up a tropical marinade that’s sweet, savory, and tangy! Combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, freshly grated ginger, and minced garlic in a bowl. Taste it, and tweak as needed until it’s just right.
🐔 Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken pieces into a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. 🍗 Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated. Seal it up or cover, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for the best flavors.
🔥 Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
Time to fire things up! If you’re using a charcoal grill, heat it to medium (around 350°F). If you’re grilling indoors with a grill pan, warm it over medium-high heat. Grill prepped? You’re ready for the magic.
🍗 Step 4: Start Grilling
Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Place it on the grill and cook until beautifully charred on the outside. Flip it every so often for even cooking. This process usually takes 25–30 minutes.
🍯 Step 5: Baste While Cooking
Here’s where the magic happens! Take some reserved marinade and brush it over the chicken during the last 10 minutes of grilling. This gives it an extra layer of sticky, smoky flavor.
📏 Step 6: Check and Serve
Before serving, check the chicken’s internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. You’re looking for 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked. Rest the chicken for 5 minutes, then it’s time to plate up and enjoy your masterpiece.
🍽️ Creative Serving Ideas
Huli Huli chicken deserves some delicious pairings to complete the meal. Try these ideas:
- Serve with rice: Steamed white rice or coconut rice for a Hawaiian vibe.
- Tropical sides: Grilled pineapple, coleslaw, or a fresh mango salad add a refreshing contrast.
- Bread pairing: Use leftovers to make Hawaiian chicken sliders with sweet rolls.
- Garnish: Sprinkle cilantro or sesame seeds on top for a polished finish.
Don’t hold back on creativity; this dish shines in any setting!
Tips to Make It Even Better
Want to elevate your Huli Huli chicken game? Here are some secrets:
- Marinate longer: More time equals deeper flavor.
- Charcoal grill magic: If you can, use a charcoal grill. The smoky flavor is hard to beat!
- Make it extra saucy: Double the marinade recipe and reserve half as a dipping sauce.
- Healthier swaps: Use low-sodium soy sauce or replace brown sugar with coconut sugar.
Small tweaks can make a world of difference, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
Nutritional Facts of Huli Huli Chicken
Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on a 4-ounce chicken thigh):
- Calories: 275
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 11g
This dish strikes a flavorful balance of protein and carbs, perfect for any meal!
Storing Leftovers the Right Way
You made extra chicken? Lucky you! Here’s how to store it safely:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating Tip: Warm gently in the oven or stovetop to retain moisture without burning.
Proper storage means you can enjoy Hawaiian flavors any day of the week.
To learn more about the steps, watch this easy video guide:
Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice adds tropical sweetness
- 1/4 cup soy sauce for that umami kick
- 1/4 cup ketchup gives a nice balance of sweetness
- 1/4 cup brown sugar for caramelized goodness
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar adds tanginess
- 1 tablespoon ginger minced (for a warm, spicy note)
- 2 garlic cloves minced (essential for flavor depth)
- 2 lbs of chicken thighs or drumsticks dark meat stays juicy on the grill
Instructions
- Mix up a tropical marinade that’s sweet, savory, and tangy! Combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, freshly grated ginger, and minced garlic in a bowl. Taste it, and tweak as needed until it’s just right.
- Place your chicken pieces into a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. 🍗 Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated. Seal it up or cover, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for the best flavors.
- Time to fire things up! If you’re using a charcoal grill, heat it to medium (around 350°F). If you’re grilling indoors with a grill pan, warm it over medium-high heat. Grill prepped? You’re ready for the magic.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Place it on the grill and cook until beautifully charred on the outside. Flip it every so often for even cooking. This process usually takes 25–30 minutes.
- Here’s where the magic happens! Take some reserved marinade and brush it over the chicken during the last 10 minutes of grilling. This gives it an extra layer of sticky, smoky flavor.
- Before serving, check the chicken’s internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. You’re looking for 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked. Rest the chicken for 5 minutes, then it’s time to plate up and enjoy your masterpiece.
Notes
- Marinate longer: More time equals deeper flavor.
- Charcoal grill magic: If you can, use a charcoal grill. The smoky flavor is hard to beat!
- Make it extra saucy: Double the marinade recipe and reserve half as a dipping sauce.
- Healthier swaps: Use low-sodium soy sauce or replace brown sugar with coconut sugar.
