Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian classic known for its smoky-sweet flavor and juicy, tender meat. Marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and ginger, then grilled to perfection, this dish delivers bold, tropical flavors that are perfect for BBQs or weeknight dinners. “Huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the traditional method of rotating the chicken over a fire for even grilling.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken thighs or drumstickssoy saucebrown sugarpineapple juiceketchupfresh gingerfresh garlicrice vinegar or apple cider vinegarWorcestershire saucevegetable oilgreen onions (for garnish)grilled pineapple slices (optional)

directions

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, ketchup, grated ginger, minced garlic, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and oil to create the marinade.

Reserve about ½ cup of the marinade for basting later.

Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or bowl and pour in the remaining marinade. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates.

Remove the chicken from the marinade and let the excess drip off.

Grill the chicken, turning occasionally and basting with the reserved marinade, for about 30–40 minutes or until cooked through and nicely caramelized.

Optional: Grill pineapple slices for 2–3 minutes per side until charred.

Garnish the chicken with chopped green onions and serve with grilled pineapple.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 4–24 hours
Grilling time: 30–40 minutes
Total time: Up to 1 hour (excluding marinating)

Variations

Use boneless chicken thighs for quicker cooking.
Add a touch of Sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Swap pineapple juice with orange juice for a different citrus note.
Try it with pork chops or tofu for a delicious alternative protein.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through or microwave in 30-second intervals.
You can also freeze grilled chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What does “Huli Huli” mean?

It means “turn turn” in Hawaiian, referring to how the chicken is rotated while cooking.

Can I cook this in the oven?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 35–40 minutes, basting occasionally.

Do I have to grill it?

Grilling gives it the best flavor, but you can also use a grill pan or bake it.

Can I use chicken breasts?

Yes, but thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Adjust cooking time for breasts.

Is this dish very sweet?

It has a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy. You can reduce sugar if desired.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, marinate the day before and grill when ready to serve.

Is it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.

What sides go well with Huli Huli Chicken?

Rice, macaroni salad, grilled veggies, or a tropical fruit salad work well.

How do I prevent burning on the grill?

Cook over medium heat and watch closely while basting to avoid flare-ups.

Can I double the marinade?

Yes, especially if you’re making a larger batch or want extra for serving.

Conclusion

Huli Huli Chicken brings a taste of Hawaii to your table with its irresistible mix of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors. Perfect for summer grilling or an indoor treat, this recipe is easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and let the tropical vibes take over your dinner.