Ultimate Huli Huli Chicken Recipe – A Taste of Hawaiian Paradise!

Bring the irresistible flavors of Hawaii to your table with this mouthwatering Huli Huli Chicken! This iconic dish features tender, juicy chicken marinated in a sweet, tangy, and savory glaze made with pineapple juice, soy sauce, and aromatic spices. Perfect for grilling season or a cozy indoor meal, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

✅ Bursting with tropical flavors – The perfect balance of sweet pineapple and umami-rich soy sauce.
✅ Easy to make – Simple marinade, minimal prep, and quick cooking time.
✅ Versatile cooking methods – Grill it, bake it, or air-fry it for delicious results.
✅ Meal-prep friendly – Great for leftovers and perfect for summer BBQs or weeknight dinners.
✅ Family-approved – A hit with kids and adults alike!

What is Huli Huli Chicken?

Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian grilled chicken dish known for its sticky, caramelized glaze and smoky char. The name comes from the Hawaiian word “huli,” meaning “turn”, referring to how the chicken is flipped while grilling.

Created in 1955 by Ernest Morgado in Honolulu, this dish was inspired by his mother’s recipe and has since become a Hawaiian BBQ staple. Traditionally served with white rice and macaroni salad, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves bold, tropical flavors!

Key Ingredients for Authentic Huli Huli Chicken

Main Ingredients:

✔ Chicken thighs (boneless & skinless) – Juicy and flavorful.
✔ Pineapple juice – Adds natural sweetness and tenderizes the meat.
✔ Soy sauce – The base of the marinade for a rich umami taste.
✔ Brown sugar – Balances the saltiness with caramelized sweetness.
✔ Fresh garlic & ginger – Essential for depth of flavor.

Optional Add-Ins & Substitutions:

• Coconut aminos (for a gluten-free alternative)

• Sriracha or chili flakes (for a spicy kick)

• Honey or maple syrup (instead of brown sugar)

• Pineapple slices (for grilling & garnish)

How to Make Huli Huli Chicken (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together:

• 1 cup soy sauce

• 2 cups pineapple juice

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp grated ginger

• 3 minced garlic cloves

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

2. Marinate the Chicken

• Place 4-6 chicken thighs in a resealable bag.

• Pour marinade over the chicken and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight for best flavor).

3. Grill to Perfection

• Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

• Remove chicken from marinade (reserve some for basting).

• Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, basting occasionally until caramelized and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).

4. Serve & Enjoy!

• Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and grilled pineapple.

• Serve with steamed rice, mac salad, or grilled veggies for a complete Hawaiian feast!

Best Side Dishes for Huli Huli Chicken

🍍 Pineapple Fried Rice – A sweet and savory pairing.
🥗 Hawaiian Macaroni Salad – Creamy and tangy.
🌽 Grilled Veggies – Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions.
🍚 Coconut Rice – Adds a tropical twist.

Storing & Reheating Tips

✔ Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
✔ Freeze for up to 3 months (thaw before reheating).
✔ Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Huli Huli Chicken recipe is a tropical flavor explosion that’s easy to make and impossible to resist! Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or craving a taste of Hawaii, this dish delivers juicy, caramelized perfection every time.

Try it today and bring a little aloha to your kitchen! 🌺🍗

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