Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is a flavorful and juicy grilled dish, marinated in a sweet and savory sauce with pineapple juice, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Traditionally cooked on a grill and basted frequently, this chicken is beloved for its caramelized glaze and tropical island flair. Perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, or bringing a taste of Hawaii to your table, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite.

ingredients

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

chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on preferred)pineapple juicesoy saucebrown sugarketchupfresh gingergarlicrice vinegarWorcestershire saucegreen onions (optional, for garnish)sesame seeds (optional)

directions

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

Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or container and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.

Refrigerate and marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.

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

Remove the chicken from the marinade and reserve the marinade for basting.

Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, basting frequently with the reserved marinade, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is caramelized.

Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesMarinating time: 4 hours or overnightGrilling time: 15-20 minutesTotal time: 4 hours 30 minutes (with marination)

Variations

Use boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option.

Add crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.

Include a splash of coconut milk in the marinade for a creamy twist.

Serve with grilled pineapple slices or over steamed rice for a complete meal.

Try baking in the oven if grilling isn’t an option.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.To freeze, place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What does “Huli Huli” mean?

“Huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the turning of the chicken during grilling.

Can I bake this instead of grilling?

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

Is it okay to use canned pineapple juice?

Yes, canned juice works perfectly in this recipe.

Can I make it less sweet?

Reduce the amount of brown sugar or swap with a sugar alternative if desired.

Do I have to marinate overnight?

For the best flavor, yes—but even 2-4 hours will still yield delicious results.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce if you like heat.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, it can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Does this recipe work for meal prep?

Absolutely—make a big batch and portion with rice and veggies for the week.

What’s the best grill temperature?

Medium heat (around 350°F-400°F) helps cook evenly without burning the glaze.

Can I use skinless chicken?

Yes, but skin-on gives a better texture and flavor when grilled.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is a tropical delight, packed with bold flavors and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just want a taste of Hawaii at home, this recipe is simple to make and irresistibly delicious. Give it a try and bring a little island sunshine to your next meal.