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Huli Huli Chicken

Huli Huli Chicken: Your New Favorite Tropical Grilling Treat

Huli Huli Chicken is a delicious marinated dish featuring sweet and smoky flavors, perfect for grilling enthusiasts.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 2-3 pounds chicken thighs or breasts Boneless, skinless thighs recommended for maximum juiciness
  • 1 cup pineapple juice Fresh enhances sweet and tangy flavor
  • ½ cup soy sauce Provides umami base; substitute with tamari for gluten-free
  • ½ cup brown sugar Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken
  • ¼ cup ketchup Imparts a tangy punch to the marinade
  • ¼ cup rice vinegar Offers a sharp yet sweet balance
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced) Brings aromatic depth to the marinade
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated) Adds warm, zesty notes
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil Use sparingly to avoid overpowering flavors
  • 1 pinch black pepper For mild spice
For Garnishing and Serving
  • 2 tablespoons green onion (chopped) Provides vibrant finish
  • 4 cups white rice Perfect base for chicken
  • grilled pineapple slices (optional) Adds sweetness and tropical touch

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Mixing Bowl
  • meat thermometer
  • resealable plastic bag

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper until the brown sugar dissolves.
  2. Place chicken thighs or breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour half of the prepared marinade over. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C). Remove chicken from marinade and discard the used marinade. Oil grill grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, flipping once. Baste with reserved marinade during the last few minutes. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F / 75°C).
  5. Transfer grilled chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 3-5 minutes. Slice and serve over a bed of white rice, garnishing with green onions and optional grilled pineapple slices.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Overnight marination enhances flavor and tenderness. Use chicken thighs for juiciness, and always let rested chicken redistribute juices for tender bites.

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