Tropical Paradise on Your Plate: Irresistibly Yummy Huli Huli Chicken!
Huli Huli Chicken brings a delightful tropical twist to your BBQ, featuring a savoury-sweet marinade made with soy sauce, pineapple juice, and a mix of fresh herbs. Whether grilling in the summer or preparing it in the kitchen during winter, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect with classic island sides like white rice, macaroni salad, or a simple grain bowl with roasted vegetables. The comforting flavours of this dish make it a family favourite year-round.
The first time I tried this dish, the flavours immediately transported me to a tropical paradise. The grilled chicken, coated in a fragrant marinade with smoky undertones, brings a touch of aloha to any occasion. Its versatility allows for various side dish pairings, such as sweet potatoes, beans, or even pineapple chicken adobo, for a unique spin. Leftovers are just as delicious, and the recipe can easily be adapted into variations like teriyaki chicken or chicken sisig for added flair.
What is Huli-Huli Chicken?
Huli-Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian-inspired dish named after the Hawaiian word “Huli,” meaning “turn.” This chicken is grilled and basted with a sticky, smoky, teriyaki-style sauce, resulting in an irresistible flavour. Created in 1955 by Ernest Morgado in Honolulu, it was based on a recipe passed down from his mother. It’s a BBQ or family gathering staple traditionally served with island favourites like white rice and macaroni salad. The savoury marinade and perfect grill marks create a mouthwatering, comforting, and flavorful dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This yummy Huli Huli chicken is loved for its sweet-savoury balance, making it a crowd favourite. Whether grilled in the summer or prepared on the stovetop during the colder months, this dish is simple to make with minimal prep time. Packed with lean protein, it’s a healthy option that even picky eaters will enjoy. The marinade is crafted from easy-to-find ingredients, coming together to create maximum flavour. It’s a family-approved recipe that brings the taste of Hawaii right into your kitchen, perfect for any season.
Main Ingredients
- Chicken thighs (boneless and skinless) or chicken legs provide rich, flavorful meat.
Seasonings:
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Dry mustard—These seasonings create the chicken’s essential flavour base.
Fresh Aromatics:
- Ginger—adds freshness and a distinct aromatic flavour.
- Fresh garlic—A key ingredient for added depth of flavour.
Marinade Ingredients:
- Soy sauce—A savoury base for the marinade.
- Oyster sauce—Enhances the umami flavour.
- Dark brown sugar—Balances the savoury with sweetness.
- Pineapple juice (unsweetened or canned)—a tropical twist.
- Apple cider vinegar—Provides tang to balance the sweetness.
Garnishes:
- Green onions—add freshness.
- Sesame seeds—add texture and flavour.
- Flaky salt (like Maldon)—for a luxurious touch.
- Pineapple slices complement the tropical flavours.
Vegetables:
- Bell peppers—A great pairing with chicken for added flavour and colour.
Substitutions and Extras:
- Coconut aminos—A gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
- Sherry, banana ketchup, or tomato – Can be used to add sweetness and acidity.
Measurements and Quantities:
- 2 cups pineapple juice
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp sesame seeds
How to Make Huli-Huli Chicken
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Combine the following ingredients in a bowl to create the marinade:
- Pineapple juice
- Soy sauce
- Brown sugar
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Dry mustard
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken in a Ziploc bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. Let it sit in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours or overnight for the best results.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Preheat your grill pan over medium-low heat. Lightly coat the grill with vegetable oil or avocado oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, allowing the chicken to develop those signature grill marks.
5. Finish Cooking the Chicken:
Transfer the grilled chicken to a baking sheet. Brush with the huli huli sauce and place the sheet in the oven or under the broiler for a few minutes to finish cooking, flipping the chicken halfway through.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the chicken with sesame seeds, green onions, and pineapple slices. Serve with your favorite sides like rice or a fresh salad. Enjoy the sweet and savoury tropical flavours of this delicious Huli-Huli Chicken!
What to Pair with Huli-Huli Chicken for the Best Meal
When preparing Huli-Huli Chicken, pair it with side dishes that enhance its sweetness and savoury flavours. Pineapple rice is a fantastic choice—fluffy rice infused with the tropical taste of pineapple juice. Adding pineapple chunks and grilled rings will give it an extra flavour that complements the chicken. Alternatively, coconut rice, cooked with coconut milk, adds a creamy richness and subtle sweetness that balances the chicken’s seasoning.
A simple salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions provides a smoky, crunchy contrast. For a refreshing side, jicama slaw with a tangy dressing contrasts beautifully with the richness of the chicken. For a bit of heat, a sriracha glaze or a sprinkle of garlic and onion will elevate the dish. If you want to reduce sweetness, try using Swerve brown sugar as a substitute, or stick with regular brown sugar for the authentic flavour.
Storing and Other Tips
After enjoying your Huli Huli chicken, allow it to cool before storing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container or Ziploc bag for easy storage.
- The chicken will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- For more extended storage, freeze the chicken for 2-3 months.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven for the best flavour.
When marinating the chicken, don’t over-marinate it. Let it sit for 30 minutes to 2 hours for the best flavour and juiciness. Marinating for more than 2 hours may cause the chicken to become challenging.
Be mindful of the marinade’s sodium, sugar, and carbohydrates, as they will affect the overall nutritional content. The chicken still offers fibre, iron, and potassium, making it a nutritious option for the whole family.
Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
This yummy Huli Huli chicken is a perfect blend of sweet and savoury flavours, making it a standout dish at any meal. The recipe features a delicious marinade made with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and pineapple juice. It’s simple to prepare, requiring only 15 minutes of prep time and a 25-minute cook time, bringing the total to just 40 minutes. Marinate the chicken for 2 hours for optimal flavour, or quickly whip up the marinade for a fast, easy dinner. This recipe serves 4 people and contains about 355 kcal per serving, making it a flavorful and satisfying main course full of tropical Hawaiian goodness. The colourful grilling process gives it the perfect colour and char, making it ideal for a summer meal.
Yummy Huli Huli Chicken: (FAQs.)
Q: What does “Huli Huli” mean?
Ans: “Huli” is the Hawaiian word for “turn,” referring to the traditional method of flipping the chicken while grilling.
Q: Can I make Huli Huli Chicken without a grill?
Ans: Yes! You can cook it in a stovetop grill pan, bake it in the oven, or air-fry it. Broiling at the end helps achieve a grilled-like char.
Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavour, marinate the chicken for 6-8 hours or overnight. If short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes to 2 hours works.
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Ans: Yes, but thighs stay juicier. If using breasts, marinate well and avoid overcooking to keep them moist.
Q: What can I use instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option?
Ans: Coconut aminos are a great substitute, offering similar umami flavours with less sodium.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Ans: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Q: What are the best sides to serve with Huli Huli Chicken?
Ans: Classic pairings include white rice, macaroni salad, grilled vegetables, or coconut rice for a tropical touch.
Ingredient
| Ingredient | Quantity | Unit |
| Chicken thighs (boneless) | 4-6 pieces | Pieces |
| Kosher salt | To taste | – |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste | – |
| Onion powder | To taste | – |
| Garlic powder | To taste | – |
| Dry mustard | 1 Tbsp | Tablespoon |
| Ginger | 1 inch piece (grated) | Inch |
| Fresh garlic | 2 cloves | Cloves |
| Soy sauce | 1 cup | Cup |
| Oyster sauce | 2 Tbsp | Tablespoon |
| Dark brown sugar | 2 Tbsp | Tablespoon |
| Pineapple juice | 2 cups | Cup |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 Tbsp | Tablespoon |
| Green onions | 2 stalks | Stalks |
| Sesame seeds | 2 Tbsp | Tablespoon |
| Flaky salt | To taste | – |
| Pineapple slices | 4-6 slices | Slices |
| Bell peppers | 2 large | Pieces |
Steps and Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
| Prepare the Marinade | To create the marinade, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and mustard. |
| Marinate and Grill the Chicken | Place the chicken into a Ziploc bag, pour in the marinade, and let it sit in the fridge for 6-8 hours (overnight for best results). |
| Preheat the Grill | Preheat the grill pan over low heat and lightly coat it with vegetable oil or avocado oil. |
| Grill the Chicken | Remove the chicken from the marinade, pat it dry, and grill on each side for 4-5 minutes, developing nice grill marks. |
| Finish Cooking and Serve | Transfer the grilled chicken to a baking sheet, brush with huli huli sauce, and finish cooking in the oven or under the broiler, flipping halfway through. |
| Garnish and Serve | Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and pineapple slices, then serve with your favourite sides like rice or a fresh salad. Enjoy! |
