Name: Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken: 7 Secrets to Grilling Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; ½ cup pineapple juice; ¼ cup soy sauce; ¼ cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh pineapple slices (for grilling, optional); Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines sweet and savory elements. This traditional Hawaiian chicken dish features marinated chicken grilled to perfection, often served with delicious grilled pineapple. The aroma of the marinade fills the air, making your taste buds dance in anticipation. Let’s dive in and explore how to create this easy Huli Huli Chicken recipe that will impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

First off, the flavor of this grilled Hawaiian chicken is unbeatable! The combination of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger makes the best Huli Huli Chicken sauce that is both sweet and tangy. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also quick to cook—perfect for busy weeknights! Plus, this dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. The grilled pineapple adds an extra touch of tropical sweetness, enhancing the overall experience. Serve it with your favorite side dishes, and you have a meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Gather these items:

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
½ cup pineapple juice
¼ cup soy sauce
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh pineapple slices (for grilling, optional)
Chopped green onions (for garnish)

How to Make Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Step 2: Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
Step 3: Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C).
Step 4: Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
Step 5: Place the chicken thighs on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is nicely charred.
Step 6: Grill Pineapple (Optional): If using, place pineapple slices on the grill during the last few minutes of cooking until caramelized and grill marks appear.
Step 7: Rest Chicken: Once grilled, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 8: Garnish: Slice the chicken and serve with grilled pineapple slices, if desired. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.

Pro Tips for the Best Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Keep these in mind:

This recipe serves well with rice or a fresh salad.
Adjust the level of spice by modifying the red pepper flakes.
For a smokier flavor, consider using a charcoal grill.
Let the chicken rest after grilling for juicier results.

Best Ways to Serve Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

This grilled Hawaiian chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of coconut rice or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with rice noodles for a lighter option. For added flavor, drizzle some of the marinade over your sides or mix it with a tangy dressing.

How to Store and Reheat Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

To store your leftover Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be stored for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, place it in the oven or on a grill for the best results. Reheating in the microwave is convenient but may dry out the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?

The secret lies in the marinade! Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour to absorb all the flavors. The balance of sweet and savory is key to making authentic Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken.

Can I make Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken the night before and grill it the next day. This helps deepen the flavors, making for an even tastier dish when cooked.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?

Ensure the grill is preheated to the right temperature to get that perfect char. Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C).

Variations of Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken You Can Try

If you want to spice things up, consider making a spicy Huli Huli Chicken variation by adding more red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also try an oven-baked Huli Huli Chicken method by roasting it in the oven at 400°F (205°C) for about 25-30 minutes. For a fruity twist, add mango juice to the marinade or serve with a side of grilled vegetables.