Name: Huli Huli Chicken: Juicy Hawaiian BBQ Bliss You’ll Love
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 510 min
Ingredients: 1 cup brown sugar; ¾ cup ketchup (choose low-sugar for a healthier option); ½ cup soy sauce (substitute with coconut aminos for gluten-free); ½ cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned works well); ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (white vinegar can be a substitute); 2 tablespoons fresh minced ginger (ground ginger is a reasonable swap in a pinch); 4 cloves minced garlic (aromatic garlic powder can be used if fresh isn't available); 2-3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (juiciest option for flavor)

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As I was flipping through my travel snapshots from Hawaii, one dish kept calling my name: Huli Huli Chicken. This vibrant, Hawaiian BBQ classic is the perfect harmony of sweetness and smokiness, promising to transport your taste buds straight to the islands. What I adore about this recipe is how quickly it comes together—just whisk the marinade in the morning, let those juicy chicken thighs soak up the flavors, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing meal ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s family-friendly and actually gluten-free with a simple substitution. Whether you’re serving it alongside fluffy white rice or a refreshing macaroni salad, every bite offers a delightful taste of paradise. Ready to bring a slice of Hawaii to your kitchen? Let’s dive into the details!

Why Is Huli Huli Chicken a Must-Try?

Quick Cooking: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights as it delivers mouthwatering flavor in under 30 minutes.

Deliciously Sweet and Savory: The combination of brown sugar and pineapple juice offers a delightful BBQ glaze, ensuring every bite is a tropical delight.

Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the juicy chicken thighs, making it an ideal choice for family meals or gatherings.

Endless Versatility: Feel free to swap out chicken thighs for drumsticks or tenders, accommodating different tastes and preferences. If you love Asian flavors, consider trying the Poblano Chicken Tacos for a fun twist.

Celebrate Gluten-Free: Easily adaptable to gluten-free diets with a simple substitution for soy sauce—just choose coconut aminos!

Bring a slice of Hawaiian paradise to your table with this delightful dish that promises to impress and satisfy!

Huli Huli Chicken Ingredients

For the Marinade

Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve that perfect caramelized glaze.
Ketchup – Provides tanginess and thickness to the marinade; choose low-sugar for a healthier option.
Soy Sauce – Adds a rich umami depth; substitute with coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
Pineapple Juice – Enhances sweetness and tropical vibes; fresh or canned works well.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Offers acidity to balance out sweetness; white vinegar can be a substitute.
Fresh Minced Ginger – Infuses warmth and spiciness; ground ginger is a reasonable swap in a pinch.
Minced Garlic – Contributes robust aroma and depth; aromatic garlic powder can be used if fresh isn’t available.

For the Chicken

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – These are juiciest and best for flavor; chicken breasts can be used but may dry out.

Embrace the flavors of Huli Huli Chicken as you gather these ingredients, and get ready to create a delicious meal you’ll cherish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Huli Huli Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Marinade
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of brown sugar, ¾ cup of ketchup, ½ cup of soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free), ½ cup of pineapple juice, ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of fresh minced ginger, and 4 cloves of minced garlic. Ensure all ingredients are fully combined, creating a luscious marinade that’s thick and glossy. Optionally, reserve ⅓ cup for basting later.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken
Take 2-3 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs and place them in a large Ziploc bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 6-8 hours or overnight for maximum flavor infusion. When you’re ready to cook, let the chicken rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Preheat Grill
While the chicken is resting, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. This ensures a perfect sear and caramelization on the chicken. As the grill heats, lightly oil the grate with a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to prevent sticking and ensure an easy release once cooked.

Step 4: Cook Chicken
Place the marinated chicken thighs on the preheated grill, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking. Grill each side for approximately 5-7 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. For an added layer of flavor, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade during the last minute of cooking, letting it caramelize beautifully.

Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the Huli Huli Chicken from the grill and transfer it to a platter. Cover the chicken loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. Serve with your favorite sides, like coconut rice or a fresh salad, for a complete meal experience.

What to Serve with Huli Huli Chicken?

Creating a complete meal of tropical flavors is a breeze with these delightful pairings.

Coconut Rice: The creamy, rich flavor of coconut rice perfectly complements the sweetness of Huli Huli Chicken, giving your plate a fragrant finish. It’s like a mini-vacation in every bite!
Macaroni Salad: This classic side offers a creamy contrast to the grilled chicken. The coolness and crunch of veggies in the salad provide a perfect balance to the warm, smoky chicken.
Grilled Pineapple Slices: Sweet, caramelized pineapple enhances the tropical vibe, enhancing the dish’s flavor palette while adding a juicy pop. They make an irresistible grill companion!
Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw aids in cutting through the richness of the chicken. Adding a little sesame oil can elevate it with a hint of Asian flair.
Garlic Bread: The buttery goodness of garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch that holds up well against the juicy chicken. Perfect for soaking up extra marinade!
Mango Salsa: A fresh, vibrant mango salsa brings forth a tropical punch of sweetness and acidity, lifting the flavors of your Huli Huli Chicken while adding a gorgeous color.
Hibiscus Iced Tea: Refreshing and floral, this iced tea is the perfect drink to balance out the meal’s rich and sweet elements while keeping you cool.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, finish on a light note with lemon sorbet. It cleanses the palate and complements the flavors of the chicken, leaving a refreshing aftermath.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Huli Huli Chicken in advance is a brilliant way to save time for busy weeknights! You can make the marinade up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply whisk together the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, marinate the chicken thighs for 6-8 hours or overnight to infuse those delicious Hawaiian flavors. When you’re ready to cook, just take the marinated chicken out of the fridge, let it come to room temperature (about 20 minutes), and follow the grilling instructions. This not only enhances flavor but ensures your meal is just as juicy and delightful as if you cooked it on the spot. Enjoy the convenience of easy meal prep that still delivers restaurant-quality results!

Huli Huli Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful variations for your Huli Huli Chicken recipe, making each dish uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos to enjoy the same umami flavor without gluten.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade to give your chicken a spicy twist that wakes up the palate.
Citrus Zing: For a fresh burst of flavor, squeeze in lime juice just before marinating; it brightens every bite beautifully.
Fruit Fusion: Toss in diced mango with the marinade to complement the chicken with a sweet and tropical flair.
Herbaceous Touch: Add fresh chopped cilantro or basil for a fragrant herbal note that pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory elements.
Grill Time Switch: Cook the chicken in the oven at 425°F for a healthier option; it’s just as juicy and flavorful but eliminates any grill fuss.
Tropical Blend: Serve alongside grilled slices of pineapple to enhance the Hawaiian vibe further; sweet and charred, it’s the perfect match!
Savory Sidekick: Pair with a refreshing side of coleslaw or macaroni salad, reminiscent of traditional BBQ feasts that celebrate communal enjoyment.

Your culinary adventure awaits with Huli Huli Chicken, and don’t forget to try serving it next to some Creamy Pesto Chicken Broccoli for even more delicious flavors on your table!

Storage Tips for Huli Huli Chicken

Fridge: Keep leftover Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows you to enjoy the savory flavors later without worry.

Freezer: If you want to store it longer, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, ensuring it stays juicy and delicious.

Avoid Spoilage: Never leave Huli Huli Chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Tips for the Best Huli Huli Chicken

Marinate Longer: Ensure maximum flavor absorption by marinating the chicken for at least 8 hours or overnight; this step is crucial for deliciously juicy Huli Huli Chicken.
Watch the Grill: Keep a close eye on the chicken while grilling. The sugar in the marinade can quickly caramelize and lead to burning if your heat is too high.
Baste for Flavor: Use the reserved marinade to baste the chicken during the last minute of grilling; it enhances the glaze and adds a flavorful finish.
Chicken Thighs Preferred: Opt for boneless skinless chicken thighs for the juiciest results. If using breasts, butterfly them to prevent drying out during cooking.
Rest Time Matters: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving; this helps lock in the juices, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.

Enjoy making your Huli Huli Chicken recipe and savor that delightful Hawaiian flavor!

Huli Huli Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Huli Huli Chicken?
Using boneless skinless chicken thighs is highly recommended for this recipe due to their juiciness and ability to absorb flavors wonderfully. If you prefer, chicken breasts can be used, but it’s important to either choose thinner cuts or butterfly them to prevent drying out during cooking.

How long can I store leftovers of Huli Huli Chicken?
Leftover Huli Huli Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows for convenient meal options later in the week while keeping the flavors intact.

Can I freeze Huli Huli Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring all air is removed. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain its tenderness.

What if I accidentally burned the chicken while grilling?
If you find yourself with some burnt spots, don’t worry! Gently scrape off any charred bits with a knife once the chicken has cooled slightly. Moreover, if the chicken is still cooked through but slightly dry, try mixing up a quick sauce with pineapple juice, honey, or the remaining marinade to drizzle over the chicken to enhance moisture and flavor.

Can I make Huli Huli Chicken gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute the soy sauce with coconut aminos, which is a delicious gluten-free alternative. This simple swap allows you to enjoy the same rich flavor profile without worrying about gluten, making it suitable for those on gluten-free diets.

What sides pair well with Huli Huli Chicken?
Pairing Huli Huli Chicken with traditional sides like coconut rice, macaroni salad, or a fresh coleslaw will create a delightful meal experience. The refreshing flavors of these sides complement the sweet and savory profile of the chicken, making it a true Hawaiian feast at home.