Description
This Huli Huli Chicken recipe brings the flavors of Hawaii right to your kitchen. Tender, juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a sweet and tangy pineapple-soy sauce, then grilled to perfection for a caramelized, smoky finish. Perfect for summer cookouts or an easy weeknight dinner, this crowd-pleaser is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or bone-in for extra flavor)
Marinade
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Grilling & Garnish
- Vegetable oil, for grilling
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, sriracha (if using), and black pepper until well combined. This mixture is the flavor foundation for your Huli Huli Chicken.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight for more intense flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill (gas or charcoal) to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off (reserve some marinade to baste if desired; boil it first for food safety). Place chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, basting occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a beautiful caramelized glaze. Internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the chicken to a platter and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your Huli Huli Chicken with steamed rice, grilled pineapple, or a fresh salad!
Notes
- Marinating overnight will give the best flavor and tenderness.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or broil it in the oven.
- For extra smokiness, add a touch of liquid smoke to the marinade.
- Reserve some marinade (before adding the raw chicken) for basting or serving on the side.
- Bone-in chicken adds more juiciness and flavor but will require slightly longer grill time.
- Pairs wonderfully with rice, macaroni salad, or grilled vegetables.
