If you are looking for a tropical twist to your usual grilled chicken, the Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together the sweet tang of pineapple juice, the savory depth of soy sauce, and the bright zing of lime, all infused together to create a wonderfully balanced marinade. The result is irresistibly flavorful chicken that’s juicy on the inside and perfectly caramelized on the outside. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends, this recipe delivers vibrant Hawaiian-inspired flavors with minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken Recipe is a breeze, thanks to the simplicity and effectiveness of its ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in building layers of sweet, salty, and tangy magic that make this dish unforgettable.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect lean protein that soaks up the marinade beautifully and grills evenly.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce: Adds savory umami without overpowering the other flavors, keeping the dish balanced.
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (100% juice): Brings juicy sweetness and tenderizing properties to the marinade.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (dark preferred): Provides a rich caramel flavor and helps create that characteristic caramelized glaze on the grill.
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice: Adds a bright, citrusy punch to cut through the sweetness.
- 3 cloves fresh garlic (minced): Imparts a warm, aromatic depth to the marinade.
- 1 inch fresh ginger (grated): Offers a subtle hint of spice and earthiness, enhancing the tropical vibe.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil: A little drizzle for a toasty fragrance and smoothness that rounds out the marinade.
- Green onions (for garnish): Fresh, crisp, and colorful, these add the perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Whisk the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, harmonious mixture. This marinade is the heart of the Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken Recipe because it infuses the chicken with those signature bright, sweet, and savory flavors.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts into the bowl and make sure each piece is fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply. For even more intense flavor, marinate overnight. This step ensures every bite bursts with that trademark Huli Huli taste.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Set your grill to medium-high heat, targeting about 400 degrees Fahrenheit. A properly heated grill is essential for achieving that perfect caramelized crust without drying the chicken out. If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan on the stovetop works well too for this recipe.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it directly onto the hot grill. Cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side, flipping carefully to avoid losing the delicious glaze. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and has those alluring grill marks that make you want to dig in immediately.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Once off the grill, let the chicken rest for five minutes before slicing. Resting helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a succulent, tender bite every time. Slice it up and get ready to enjoy the vibrant layers of flavor crafted throughout the Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken Recipe.
How to Serve Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your plate by sprinkling freshly chopped green onions over the finished chicken. Not only do they add a pop of color, but the mild onion flavor complements the sweet and savory glaze perfectly. For a little extra flair, try adding some toasted sesame seeds or even a few sprigs of fresh cilantro for that tropical freshness.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Classic steamed white rice or coconut rice is an excellent choice to soak up any leftover marinade glaze. For a vibrant plate, serve alongside grilled pineapple slices or a simple fresh salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables or even a colorful slaw add crunch and brightness, completing the meal wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Elevate the Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken Recipe by serving it on skewers alongside pineapple chunks and bell peppers, offering a fun and interactive presentation. Another delightful idea is layering sliced grilled chicken on top of a bed of jasmine rice and drizzling any reserved marinade over as an extra sauce. Serving the chicken tacos style with tropical salsa makes for a fresh and playful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken Recipe is enjoyed, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay flavorful and tender for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners during the busy week.
Freezing
If you want to keep the chicken longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooked chicken breasts in a freezer-safe bag or container, making sure to press out excess air to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, the chicken can last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low-medium heat or in the microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Avoid high heat which can dry out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or pineapple juice while reheating can help revive the juicy, tender qualities that make this Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken Recipe so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully with the marinade and grilling method. They tend to be juicier and richer, so just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked through.
Do I need to marinate the chicken overnight?
While marinating overnight enhances the flavor greatly, even an hour in the marinade will impart delicious taste. If short on time, an hour is a fine minimum to enjoy the signature Huli Huli flavors.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day or two in advance. Just whisk it together and keep it covered in the fridge. This makes it even easier to whip up the Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken Recipe when you’re ready.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be with a simple substitution! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing flavor.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or even bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through and caramelized on top.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken Recipe is a wonderful gateway to enjoying fresh, vibrant Hawaiian-inspired flavors with very little effort. Its harmonious blend of sweet, salty, and citrusy notes makes it an outstanding choice for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try, gather your loved ones, and savor every juicy, caramelized bite together. Happy grilling!
Print
Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 24 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
This Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken is a flavorful Hawaiian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken breasts marinated in a vibrant blend of soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, fresh lime, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Grilled to perfection, this recipe delivers a sweet and savory balance that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend cookout.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (100% juice)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (dark preferred)
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 3 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 1 inch fresh ginger (grated)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Garnish
- Green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil until smooth and well combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F, ensuring the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken: Remove chicken breasts from the marinade and place them directly on the grill. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, flipping carefully, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, indicating the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for five minutes to retain juices. Slice and serve over rice or alongside your favorite vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions for added freshness and color.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances flavor and tenderness but a minimum of one hour is sufficient to infuse the chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken on a grill pan or under a broiler, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- For added smoky flavor, use soaked wood chips on the grill.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
