Huli Huli Chicken, with its irresistible sweet and tangy glaze, always reminds me of family barbecues back in Oahu. My grandpa, a true grill master, would spend hours tending the chicken, flipping it with such care. The air would be filled with the smoky aroma of grilled pineapple and teriyaki, a scent I can still conjure up instantly. My take on this classic Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe uses a simplified marinade that captures all those iconic flavors. I love to load up on the pineapple, making it extra juicy and delicious. If you’re craving a bit of island sunshine, this flavorful grilled chicken recipe is your ticket. Let’s get cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Huli Huli Chicken
- The sweet and tangy flavor will instantly transport you to the Hawaiian islands! Trust me, it’s like sunshine on a plate.
- It uses a super simple grilling method that’s totally beginner-friendly. Don’t worry if you’re new to grilling – this recipe is foolproof.
- Marinating the chicken not only tenderizes it but also infuses it with incredible flavor. Every bite is bursting with deliciousness!
- You’ll only need common ingredients that you can easily find at any grocery store. No fancy stuff here!
- It’s naturally gluten-free, or easily made gluten-free with one simple swap. (Tamari instead of soy sauce – easy peasy!)
- This recipe is so easy to customize with your favorite spices. Want it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes!
- It’s absolutely perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend BBQ. Versatility for the win!
Ingredients for Huli Huli Chicken
- 4-5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: I always go for thighs because they stay so juicy on the grill! But hey, chicken breasts work too if that’s what you’ve got.
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar: This is what gives our Hawaiian BBQ chicken that lovely sweetness and helps it caramelize like a dream.
- ½ cup ketchup: Don’t skip this! It adds the perfect tanginess and gives the sauce a nice body.
- ½ cup light soy sauce: For that essential umami flavor. I use light soy sauce, but you can totally use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt.
- ½ cup canned pineapple juice: Gotta have that tropical vibe! It adds sweetness and that unmistakable pineapple flavor.
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste or minced ginger: I’m a ginger fanatic! It adds warmth and a little zing to the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste or minced garlic: Garlic is a must! It gives the dish a savory depth that’s just irresistible.
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: This balances out all the sweetness and adds a delightful tang.
- ½ teaspoon cumin: Just a little bit for a subtle smoky note that complements the other flavors.
- ½ teaspoon coarse black pepper: A pinch of spice to wake everything up!
- ½ teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika: For color and either a smoky or sweet flavor, depending on what you prefer. I usually go with smoked!
- Pineapple rings (1 pineapple or 1 can of slices, drained): Trust me; grilling these alongside the chicken is a game-changer. It adds even more sweetness and a beautiful caramelized char.
- ½ cup sliced green onions for garnish: These add a pop of freshness and color. I always pile them on!
How to Make Huli Huli Chicken: Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Rinse and dry the chicken thighs. I can’t stress this enough – really pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get that beautiful, slightly charred, caramelized crust we all crave!
- Step 2: Make the Huli Huli Chicken marinade. Grab a large bowl (or a gallon-sized zip-top bag if you’re feeling lazy!) and whisk together the brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, pineapple juice, ginger, garlic, apple cider vinegar, cumin, black pepper, and paprika. The smell alone will have you drooling!
- Step 3: Reserve some marinade. This is important! Set aside ½ cup of that glorious mixture for later use. Trust me, you’ll want it.
- Step 4: Marinate the chicken. Now for the fun part! Add the chicken thighs to the remaining marinade, making sure every piece is completely coated. Cover it up tight and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Overnight is even better – the longer it sits, the more that amazing flavor soaks in. That’s how you get truly delicious Hawaiian BBQ chicken!
- Step 5: Preheat the grill. Get your grill screaming hot – medium-high heat (around 400°F) is what you’re aiming for.
- Step 6: Grill the chicken. Lightly oil the grates (this prevents sticking!). Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check. Don’t forget to discard the marinade that the raw chicken has been sitting in!
- Step 7: Grill the pineapple. When the chicken is almost done, toss those pineapple rings onto the grill. Cook them until they’re golden brown and have those gorgeous grill marks on each side. The sugars caramelize and it’s just…*chef’s kiss*.
- Step 8: Brush with reserved sauce. Remember that reserved marinade? Now’s its time to shine! Brush it generously over the cooked chicken.
- Step 9: Finish and serve. For an extra glossy, sticky finish, you can broil the chicken for a minute or two to thicken the sauce. Just keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn! Alternatively, you can heat the reserved sauce in a saucepan on the stove until it thickens slightly. Garnish with those beautiful sliced green onions and serve with the grilled pineapple. Get ready for a taste of the islands!
Pro Tips for the Best Huli Huli Chicken
Want to take your Huli Huli Chicken, or that craveable homemade Hawaiian BBQ chicken, from good to *unforgettable*? Here are a few of my go-to secrets that I’ve picked up over the years. Trust me, these little tweaks make a HUGE difference! Always use fresh pineapple (canned is fine but fresh is better), and don’t be afraid to experiment with the spices! A little extra ginger never hurt anyone, right? The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. Now, let’s get to your burning questions!
What’s the secret to perfect Huli Huli Chicken?
Marinating overnight is absolutely key for maximum flavor penetration and the most tender chicken imaginable. Seriously, don’t even think about skipping this step. It’s what transforms ordinary grilled chicken into a taste of paradise!
Can I make Huli Huli Chicken ahead of time?
You bet! Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This is a total lifesaver for busy weeknights. You can also grill the chicken ahead of time and gently reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just add a splash of pineapple juice to keep it moist.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Huli Huli Chicken?
Flare-ups on the grill can be a real pain, so make sure you clean your grill grates thoroughly *before* you start grilling. Also, pat the chicken dry before grilling to help it get that beautiful char. And remember, always discard the marinade that the raw chicken has been sitting in to prevent any contamination!
Best Ways to Serve Huli Huli Chicken
Okay, so you’ve got this gorgeous, glistening Huli Huli Chicken fresh off the grill – now what? Let me tell you, the serving possibilities are endless! But if you want the *real* deal, you absolutely have to serve this as part of a classic Hawaiian plate lunch. Think fluffy white rice (the stickier, the better, trust me!), a scoop of creamy coleslaw, and maybe even some macaroni salad if you’re feeling extra indulgent.
For a lighter meal, pair your juicy Hawaiian BBQ chicken with a big, fresh salad and some grilled veggies. Think bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion – all charred to perfection. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try shredding the chicken and using it in tacos or wraps with a tangy pineapple salsa. Seriously, the sweet and savory combo is out of this world!
Nutrition Facts for Huli Huli Chicken
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a rough breakdown of what you’re looking at, nutrition-wise, per serving of this delicious Hawaiian BBQ chicken. Keep in mind, these are just estimates – they can wiggle around depending on exactly what you use and how big your portions are. But hey, it’s good to have a general idea, right?
- Per serving (estimate):
- Calories: 467kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 67g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 1621mg
This nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. So, you know, enjoy responsibly!
How to Store and Reheat Huli Huli Chicken
Okay, you’ve made this incredible homemade Hawaiian BBQ chicken, and somehow, you have leftovers (though I doubt it!). Here’s the lowdown on keeping that deliciousness fresh. For short-term storage, pop your leftover Huli Huli Chicken into an airtight container and stash it in the fridge. It’ll be good for up to 2 days – perfect for lunch the next day!
Want to keep it around longer? No problem! Just freeze the chicken for up to 1 month. A little tip: make sure your chicken wasn’t previously frozen before you freeze it again. When you’re ready to enjoy it, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in a skillet over medium heat until it’s warmed through. To keep it nice and juicy, add a splash of pineapple juice while reheating. Microwaving is an option too, but honestly, it can mess with the texture a bit, so I usually avoid it!
Frequently Asked Questions About Huli Huli Chicken
What does “Huli Huli Chicken” mean?
Okay, let’s get to the bottom of this! “Huli” actually means “turn” in Hawaiian. So, the name refers to the old-school way of cooking this chicken – constantly flipping it over and over on the grill to get that perfect, even char. It’s a labor of love, but totally worth it!
Now, is Huli Huli Chicken spicy? Traditionally, nope! It’s all about that sweet and tangy goodness. But hey, if you like a little kick, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. I won’t judge!
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Alright, let’s talk chicken! Yes, you absolutely *can* use chicken breast if that’s what you prefer. But, and this is a big but, chicken thighs are where it’s at for flavor and juiciness! They just hold up so much better on the grill. If you do go with breast, just make sure you keep a close eye on it and adjust the cooking time to make sure it’s cooked through without drying out.
Speaking of time, how long should you marinate those chicken breasts for your Huli Huli Chicken masterpiece? I’d say at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better. The longer they soak in that delicious marinade, the more flavor they’ll soak up! It makes a huge difference to let that Hawaiian BBQ chicken flavor really pop!
What can I serve with Huli Huli Chicken?
Oh, the possibilities! Huli Huli Chicken is super versatile. But if you want the classic experience, you gotta go with rice, coleslaw, and maybe some macaroni salad. It’s a Hawaiian plate lunch staple for a reason! Grilled vegetables or a vibrant pineapple salsa are also fantastic choices. They add a fresh, bright counterpoint to the richness of the chicken.
And hey, ever thought about a Huli Huli Chicken bowl? It’s a game-changer! Just layer up some rice, that glorious Huli Huli Chicken, grilled pineapple, and your favorite toppings – maybe some avocado, a sprinkle of green onions, and a drizzle of spicy mayo? Trust me, it’s the perfect way to enjoy all those amazing flavors in one delicious bite.
Variations of Huli Huli Chicken You Can Try
Okay, so you’ve mastered the classic Huli Huli Chicken recipe – now it’s time to get a little creative! I’m a firm believer in putting your own spin on things, so here are a few fun variations to try. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a different cooking method, or just a little extra heat, I’ve got you covered. Let’s get experimenting!
- Gluten-Free: Simply swap out the soy sauce for tamari, and you’ve got a delicious gluten-free version! Tamari has a similar flavor profile, so you won’t miss a thing.
- Baked: No grill? No problem! Bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and juicy. It’s just as tasty, and perfect for those rainy days when you can’t fire up the grill.
- Spicy: Craving a little heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick that’ll wake up your taste buds!
- Vegan: Swap out the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh, and marinate and grill as directed. You’ll be amazed at how well these plant-based proteins soak up all that delicious Huli Huli Chicken flavor!
Amazing Huli Huli Chicken in Under 1 Hour, Finally
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Huli Huli Chicken, also known as Hawaiian BBQ chicken, is packed with flavor and coated in a teriyaki-like sauce. The result is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Ingredients
- 4–5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup ketchup
- ½ cup light soy sauce
- ½ cup canned pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste or minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste or minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon coarse black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
- Pineapple rings (1 pineapple or 1 can of slices, drained)
- ½ cup sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse chicken thighs and pat dry.
- In a large bowl or gallon-size zip-top bag, combine all ingredients except chicken. Mix well.
- Remove ½ cup of the sauce mixture and set aside for serving.
- Add chicken thighs to the remaining sauce, ensuring all chicken is submerged.
- Cover or seal and refrigerate to marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Heat grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
- Lightly brush the grates with oil.
- Place chicken on the heated grill. Cook for about 10 minutes without turning. Flip and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 10 minutes more). Discard the marinade.
- When the chicken is about halfway done, add pineapple rings to the grill and cook until golden on each side.
- Remove everything from the grill.
- Brush the reserved marinade over the chicken. Broil for a few minutes to thicken the sauce, or heat the reserved sauce in a saucepan to thicken and then brush over the chicken.
Notes
- Store leftover Huli Huli Chicken, covered, in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Freeze for 1 month if the chicken wasn’t previously frozen.
- Adjust seasonings as needed before brushing over the chicken. Add more sugar for a sweeter flavor.
- Clean under the grates before grilling. Allow excess marinade to drip off to prevent flare-ups.
- Any cut of chicken can be used; adjust cooking time for larger or bone-in pieces.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 467kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 1621mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 67g
- Cholesterol: 194mg
Keywords: Huli Huli Chicken, Hawaiian BBQ Chicken, grilled chicken, pineapple chicken, teriyaki chicken
