If you’ve been craving sweet and savory flavors that transport you straight to Hawaii, this Huli Huli Chicken Recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. With its juicy, marinated chicken grilled to smoky perfection and glazed in a sticky, tangy sauce, each bite promises a tropical getaway for your taste buds. This beloved dish is famous for its layers of flavor—thanks to a playful balance of pineapple, soy, and ginger—and you’ll love how easily it comes together for family dinners or backyard BBQs. Whether you’re a first-timer or a Hawaiian food enthusiast, this Huli Huli Chicken Recipe delivers irresistible results every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients! You won’t need anything fancy—each item on this list plays its part in building that unforgettable flavor, from the sweet, caramelized glaze to the succulent, perfectly cooked chicken. Keep these essentials on hand and you’ll be ready for a tropical feast anytime.

Chicken thighs or drumsticks: These cuts stay juicy and tender, standing up beautifully to the flavorful marinade and grill.
Pineapple juice: This is the real secret, adding tang and natural sweetness that defines the Huli Huli Chicken Recipe.
Soy sauce: Brings a rich, salty backbone to the marinade that perfectly balances the sweet elements.
Brown sugar: Caramelizes on the grill and gives a glossy finish to the chicken.
Ketchup: Adds acidity, color, and a subtle tang that rounds out the sauce.
Fresh ginger: Provides a zippy warmth—always use fresh if you can for the most vibrant flavor.
Garlic: Essential for its punchy aroma and deep flavor.
Rice vinegar: Offers a hint of brightness to lift the marinade.
Sesame oil: A drizzle of this nutty oil goes a long way to enhance the marinade’s depth.
Green onions: They’re fresh, crunchy, and perfect for a finishing sprinkle.

How to Make Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Marinade

Whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Make sure the sugar dissolves completely and everything smells wonderfully fragrant—this marinade is truly the heart of the Huli Huli Chicken Recipe.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken pieces to the marinade, turning them to coat each piece generously. For the best flavor, let the chicken soak up those tropical juices in the fridge for at least 2 hours, though overnight is even better if you have the time. This step takes patience, but your taste buds will thank you!

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high and make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled. A hot, well-prepped grill helps achieve those signature char marks and caramelized edges that define the classic Huli Huli Chicken Recipe flavor.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill, turning every 4 to 5 minutes and basting frequently with the reserved marinade. This keeps each bite juicy and sticky-sweet. Continue grilling until the chicken is golden, slightly charred, and cooked through—about 25–30 minutes in total.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest briefly before transferring to a platter. Shower it with chopped green onions and a drizzle of extra marinade (boiled for safety, of course). Now get ready to wow your guests—the flavors are irresistible!

How to Serve Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Top your chicken with a generous scatter of fresh green onions or even thin slices of red chili for a punch of color and subtle heat. Toasted sesame seeds bring a lovely crunch, and a few chunks of fresh pineapple on the side never hurt!

Side Dishes

This Huli Huli Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic Hawaiian sides like steamed jasmine rice, macaroni salad, or grilled veggies. Sticky rice soaks up all that extra glaze, and a crisp, tangy slaw makes every bite even more refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Make a Huli Huli Chicken bowl over rice with pickled veggies and drizzle extra sauce, or slide the sliced chicken into soft Hawaiian buns with a pineapple slaw for a tropical sandwich. You can also skewer the chicken for a party-friendly appetizer version.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any extra Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making leftovers a delicious treat for lunch or an easy weeknight dinner.

Freezing

If you want to meal prep, freeze cooked chicken pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. For best results, remove as much air as possible before sealing—the chicken will stay tasty for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating

To reheat, simply bake the chicken in a 350°F oven, covered, until warmed through, or gently microwave pieces in short bursts. For the crispest skin, pop them under the broiler for a minute after reheating.

FAQs

Can I make the Huli Huli Chicken Recipe without a grill?

Absolutely! You can use a grill pan on your stovetop or even roast the chicken in the oven at 400°F—just turn and baste frequently to achieve that signature caramelization.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?

While even a quick 2-hour marinade brings great flavor, letting your chicken soak overnight allows the taste to penetrate deeper, making each bite even more irresistible.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or drumsticks?

Yes, chicken breasts work, though they can be a bit leaner and may dry out faster. Just keep an eye on doneness and baste generously to keep them moist.

How can I make the marinade spicier?

If you love heat, add a dash of sriracha, diced jalapeño, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. Adjust to your preferred level of spice—it’s all about making the Huli Huli Chicken Recipe your own!

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Definitely! Mix up the marinade up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Give it a quick stir before using to make sure all the flavors are blended and ready to shine.

Final Thoughts

This Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is pure sunshine on a plate, and I can’t wait for you to try it! Whether you’re grilling out with friends or just want an easy way to add some tropical fun to your weeknight dinner, it’s a sure hit. Go on—fire up that grill and take your taste buds on a little Hawaiian getaway tonight!

Kimberly