Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe | Sweet & Smoky Island Flavor
Nothing captures the spirit of Hawaii quite like the smoky, sweet, and savory flavors of Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe. This dish was born in the 1950s when locals grilled chicken over open flames and basted it with a mouthwatering sauce made of pineapple juice, soy, brown sugar, and garlic. The word huli means “turn” in Hawaiian, and it refers to the way the chicken is repeatedly flipped over the grill to achieve that perfect caramelized glaze.
Unlike many quick chicken recipes, Huli Huli Chicken is all about soaking up tropical flavors and letting them shine. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and tangy, with just a hint of smokiness from the grill. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a weeknight dinner, or simply want to bring island vibes to your table, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken thighs (boneless) | 2 lbs (900 g) | 960 |
| Pineapple juice | 1 cup | 130 |
| Soy sauce | ½ cup | 45 |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup | 210 |
| Ketchup | ⅓ cup | 60 |
| Rice vinegar | 2 tbsp | 6 |
| Fresh ginger (grated) | 1 tbsp | 5 |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 12 |
| Sesame oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Green onions (for garnish) | 2 stalks | 10 |
| Sesame seeds (optional) | 1 tbsp | 50 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the marinade
- In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil until well combined.
- Marinate the chicken
- Place chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or dish. Pour the marinade over them, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight works best for maximum flavor).
- Preheat the grill
- Heat your grill to medium-high. If using a stovetop grill pan, lightly oil it before cooking.
- Grill the chicken
- Remove chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Grill each piece for 6–7 minutes per side, basting with reserved marinade and turning often to achieve that classic huli huli effect.
- Check doneness
- The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has a caramelized, slightly charred glaze.
- Serve and garnish
- Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Pair with rice or grilled pineapple for an authentic Hawaiian touch.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Chicken Cuts: Swap thighs for drumsticks or even bone-in chicken for richer flavor.
- Sweetness Level: Reduce brown sugar if you prefer a less sweet glaze.
- Heat Factor: Add chili flakes or Sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Cooking Method: If you don’t have a grill, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, broiling in the last few minutes for caramelization.
- Extra Sauce: Double the marinade and reserve half to simmer into a dipping sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1 of 6)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 12 g |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed white rice or coconut rice for a truly Hawaiian meal.
- Pair with a side of grilled pineapple rings for extra sweetness.
- Add a fresh green salad with a citrus dressing to balance the richness.
- Great for BBQ parties alongside corn on the cob or Hawaiian macaroni salad.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
6
servings10
minutes20
minutes350
kcalIngredients
2 lbs (900 g) boneless chicken thighs
1 cup pineapple juice
½ cup soy sauce
½ cup brown sugar
⅓ cup ketchup
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
Directions
- Make the Marinade: Whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
- Marinate Chicken: Place chicken in a dish or bag, pour marinade over, cover, and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat grill to medium-high. Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, basting and turning often until caramelized.
- Check Doneness: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Pair with rice or grilled pineapple for a true Hawaiian experience.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the most authentic flavor, grill over charcoal—it adds a smoky depth that pairs perfectly with the sweet marinade.
Avoid overcrowding the grill or pan; this helps the chicken caramelize instead of steaming.
FAQs
1. What does Huli Huli mean?
Huli means “turn” in Hawaiian, and the name refers to turning the chicken repeatedly on the grill while basting with sauce.
2. Can I make Huli Huli Chicken without a grill?
Yes! You can bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes or cook it on a stovetop grill pan or skillet. Broil at the end for that charred glaze.
3. How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 2 hours is recommended, but for the best flavor, marinate overnight.
4. What kind of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless thighs are juicy and flavorful, but drumsticks, wings, or even bone-in cuts also work well.
5. Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes, the marinade can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
6. Is Huli Huli Chicken spicy?
Traditionally, it’s not spicy. However, you can add chili flakes, hot sauce, or Sriracha for a little heat.
Conclusion
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken isn’t just a recipe—it’s an experience that brings the tropical flavors of the islands straight to your plate. Juicy, smoky, and glazed with a sweet-savory marinade, it’s a dish that feels just as at home at a summer cookout as it does on a cozy weeknight dinner table. Whether you enjoy it with rice, pineapple, or simply on its own, this recipe is a delicious way to bring a little aloha spirit into your kitchen.
