Authentic Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken: Sweet, Smoky, and Grilled to Perfection

If you’ve ever visited Hawaii or just dreamt of tropical flavors you’ve likely heard of Huli Huli Chicken. With its sticky-sweet glaze, smoky char, and juicy, marinated meat, Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian classic that has become beloved across the world. This grilled dish delivers big flavor, thanks to a signature marinade made with pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic.

The name “Huli Huli” means “turn, turn” in Hawaiian, referencing how the chicken is traditionally cooked on a rotisserie and turned over the grill. While most of us don’t have a spit-roaster in our backyard, this recipe is adapted for the home cook—using boneless chicken thighs or breasts, a stovetop grill pan, or an outdoor grill. The results? Incredibly flavorful, caramelized chicken that brings the spirit of aloha right to your plate.

In this article, you’ll find a detailed guide to making authentic Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken, including tips for perfect grilling, how to serve it island-style, FAQs, and variations. Let’s fire up the grill and get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tropical Flavor Explosion: Pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger create the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy.
• Grill-Friendly: Great for backyard barbecues or indoor grill pans.
• Easy Prep: Simple marinade, big results.
• Complete Meal: Serve with rice, grilled pineapple, or Hawaiian mac salad.
• Customizable: Works with chicken thighs, breasts, or even drumsticks.

Ingredients

This flavorful chicken dish comes together with pantry staples and a few fresh aromatics.

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless Thighs are juicier and more forgiving on the grill, but breasts work well too.

For the Huli Huli Marinade & Glaze:

• 1 cup pineapple juice
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup rice vinegar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

This sweet and savory marinade doubles as a glaze—just be sure to reserve some before adding raw chicken!

For Garnish and Serving:

• 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked white rice
• Grilled pineapple slices (optional, but highly recommended!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Pineapple juice
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Ketchup
• Rice vinegar
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Sesame oil
• Black pepper

Reserve ½ cup of this mixture in a separate container for basting or glazing later. This step is important for food safety.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a glass container. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken and seal.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but preferably 6–8 hours. For the deepest flavor, marinate overnight.

Tip: If you’re using chicken breasts, pound them to even thickness to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat a gas grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining liquid. Place chicken on the grill and cook:

• 6–8 minutes per side for thighs
• 5–7 minutes per side for breasts

While grilling, brush the reserved glaze onto the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking. This creates a sticky, caramelized exterior.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Tip: Don’t add the glaze too early or it may burn due to the sugar content.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

Transfer the grilled chicken to a clean cutting board. Let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

Slice into strips or serve whole.

Step 6: Serve with Hawaiian Flair

Plate the chicken over a bed of steamed white rice. Top with chopped green onions and grilled pineapple slices for a tropical touch. Optional sides include:

• Hawaiian macaroni salad
• Coconut rice
• Mixed greens with mango vinaigrette
• Coleslaw or cucumber salad

Optional Add-Ins & Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• Sticky Wings: Use this recipe for chicken wings instead of thighs.
• Huli Huli Bowl: Serve over rice with grilled veggies, pineapple salsa, or pickled cabbage.
• Vegetarian twist: Use tofu or portobello mushrooms and marinate the same way.

Pro Tips for Perfect Huli Huli Chicken

• Marinate overnight for the richest flavor.
• Use chicken thighs for juicier results and better caramelization.
• Grill pineapple alongside the chicken for a smoky-sweet side.
• Reserve marinade before adding chicken to keep glaze food-safe.
• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “Huli Huli” mean?

“Huli” means “to turn” in Hawaiian. Traditionally, the chicken is turned repeatedly over a charcoal fire, often on a spit or rotisserie.

Can I cook this without a grill?

Yes! Use a grill pan, cast iron skillet, or broil in the oven on a foil-lined baking sheet. You can even bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, finishing under the broiler for char.

Is it okay to use canned pineapple juice?

Absolutely. Just make sure it’s 100% juice, not sweetened syrup or a juice cocktail.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 2 hours, but overnight (up to 24 hours) is best. Don’t marinate longer than 24 hours, as the acids can begin to break down the texture of the meat.

What sides go well with Huli Huli Chicken?

• Steamed or coconut rice
• Macaroni salad (Hawaiian-style with a touch of vinegar)
• Roasted or grilled vegetables
• Cucumber salad
• Tropical fruit salad

Make-Ahead & Storage

• Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. You can also grill it a day ahead and reheat.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water.

Conclusion: Aloha on Your Plate

This Authentic Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken recipe brings the warm, tropical flavors of the islands right to your kitchen. With a luscious, pineapple-infused marinade and a deeply savory glaze, every bite is juicy, smoky, sweet, and just a little tangy.

Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, preparing a laid-back family dinner, or just want to add a little island sunshine to your meal, Huli Huli Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it over rice, pair with grilled fruit, and don’t forget the aloha spirit!

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