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Delicious Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Delicious Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

This Delicious Huli Huli Chicken Recipe brings the authentic sweet and savory flavors of Hawaii to your kitchen. Marinated in a unique blend of soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar, the chicken caramelizes beautifully over grill or broiler heat, resulting in juicy, smoky, and irresistibly flavorful chicken perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in skin-on thighs preferred for juiciness) – 3 to 4 pounds
  • Soy sauce – 1 cup
  • Pineapple juice – 1 cup
  • Brown sugar – 1/2 cup packed
  • Garlic cloves, minced – 3 to 4 cloves
  • Fresh ginger, minced or ground ginger – 1 tablespoon
  • Ketchup – 1/4 cup
  • Apple cider vinegar – 2 tablespoons
  • Red pepper flakes (optional) – 1/2 teaspoon or to taste
  • Green onions (for garnish), sliced – 2 to 3 stalks

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: Whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight for maximum flavor infusion and tenderness.
  3. Preheat Your Grill or Broiler: Heat your grill to medium-high, or set your oven broiler to high. Make sure the grates or pan are well oiled to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade—reserve the excess marinade for basting—and place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, basting frequently with the reserved marinade to build a beautiful sticky glaze and caramelization.
  5. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If needed, move chicken to indirect heat to finish cooking through without burning the sugars in the marinade.
  6. Rest and Garnish: Allow the chicken to rest for five minutes before serving. Sprinkle with sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds if desired for a fresh and colorful finish.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken pieces for juicier results and enhanced flavor.
  • Do not skip basting with the reserved marinade to achieve the signature sticky, glossy coating.
  • Maintain medium-high heat to avoid burning the sugars in the marinade while developing a smoky char.
  • Marinating overnight tenderizes the meat more deeply and intensifies flavors.
  • Reserve marinade only for basting; do not use raw marinade as a dipping sauce unless boiled first to ensure food safety.

Nutrition

Keywords: Huli Huli Chicken, Hawaiian Chicken, Grilled Chicken, Sweet and Savory Chicken, Pineapple Chicken, Tropical Recipe, BBQ Chicken