Name: Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken That’ll Brighten Your BBQ
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 290 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless skinless chicken thighs (Tender and juicy when grilled or baked); 1 cup Pineapple juice (Infuses tropical twist and tenderizes chicken); 1/4 cup Light soy sauce (Adds umami depth; swap with tamari for gluten-free); 1/4 cup Light brown sugar (Provides sweetness and aids in caramelization); 1/4 cup Ketchup (Balances flavors with richness); 1 tablespoon Ginger paste (Delivers warm spice note); 1 tablespoon Garlic paste (Elevates overall flavor profile); 2 tablespoons Apple cider vinegar (Adds acidity to balance sweetness); 1 teaspoon Cumin (Contributes earthy undertones); 1/2 teaspoon Coarse black pepper (Adds mild heat); 1 teaspoon Paprika (Introduces color and smokiness); 1 cup Pineapple rings (Adds sweetness when grilled); 1/4 cup Sliced green onions (Provides fresh garnish)

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As the sun sets painting the sky in hues of pink and orange, the air fills with the enticing aroma of sweet and tangy goodness wafting from the grill. That’s the magic of Huli Huli Chicken! This Authentic Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken with Pineapple Glaze transforms your backyard into a tropical paradise, offering you an easy escape from the everyday hustle. With its irresistible marinade of fresh pineapple juice, brown sugar, and a mix of spices, this dish doesn’t just tantalize your taste buds; it’s a breeze to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at gatherings. Whether you’re grilling or opting for the oven, you’ll create perfectly tender chicken that never fails to impress. Ready to dive into a slice of Hawaiian paradise? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Huli Huli Chicken So Irresistible?

Tropical Flavor Explosion: This recipe bursts with sweet and tangy notes from the pineapple glaze, providing a bright and refreshing twist.

Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you grill or bake, the process remains simple and straightforward, making it a perfect option for any occasion.

Easy Meal Prep: With the ability to marinate up to 24 hours in advance, you can prep ahead and enjoy stress-free gatherings.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This chicken is not just a dish; it’s a showstopper! Serve it alongside coconut rice or fresh fruit salad for a complete Hawaiian experience.

Great for Any Season: Perfect for summer barbecues, but delicious enough to enjoy year-round; it brings the island vibes to your plate no matter the time!

Try pairing this with our Hot Honey Chicken for a well-rounded meal of bold flavors!

Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken Ingredients

• For the Marinade

Boneless skinless chicken thighs – The main protein that stays tender and juicy when grilled or baked.
Pineapple juice – Infuses a tropical twist and helps tenderize the chicken for incredible flavor.
Light soy sauce – Adds umami depth; swap with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Light brown sugar – Provides necessary sweetness and aids in achieving that glorious caramelization.
Ketchup – Balances the flavors by adding a hint of richness to the marinade.
Ginger paste (or minced ginger) – Delivers a warm spice note that complements the sweetness.
Garlic paste (or minced garlic) – Elevates the overall flavor profile, making the dish irresistible.
Apple cider vinegar – Adds a touch of acidity to balance out the sweetness perfectly.
Cumin – Contributes subtle earthy undertones, enhancing the marinade complexity.
Coarse black pepper – Adds a pinch of mild heat for a rounded flavor.
Paprika (smoked or sweet) – Introduces vibrant color and a hint of smokiness to the dish.

• For the Grill

Pineapple rings – Adds a juicy, sweet touch when grilled; fresh or canned works wonders!
Sliced green onions – Provides a fresh garnish and burst of color when serving.

Whether you’re indulging in this Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken for a casual family dinner or a lively summer BBQ, all these ingredients come together to create a flavor sensation that transports your taste buds straight to the islands!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by rinsing the boneless skinless chicken thighs under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This ensures a clean base for marinating. Place the chicken in a large bowl or zip-top bag to prepare for the delicious marinade that will infuse the Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken with flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade
In a separate bowl, combine pineapple juice, light soy sauce, light brown sugar, ketchup, ginger paste, garlic paste, apple cider vinegar, cumin, coarse black pepper, and paprika. Whisk these ingredients together until they create a smooth, glossy marinade. The balance of flavors in this mixture will bring vibrant tropical notes to your Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the bowl, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and penetrate the meat thoroughly. This marination step is essential for achieving tender and juicy chicken with a delectable taste.

Step 4: Reserve Marinade for Glazing
Before removing the chicken from the marinade, carefully reserve ½ cup of it in a separate bowl. This will be used later for brushing over the chicken once it’s cooked. To ensure safety, remember to heat this reserved marinade if you plan to serve it as a glaze on your Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken.

Step 5: Preheat the Grill
About 20 minutes before you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F. While the grill heats, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks and ensuring your chicken cooks evenly.

Step 6: Grill the Chicken
Once the grill is hot, place the marinated chicken thighs directly on the grates. Grill for about 10 minutes without flipping to let the chicken develop a nice char. After this initial grilling period, flip the chicken and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures your Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken is both safe to eat and perfectly cooked.

Step 7: Grill the Pineapple
As the chicken cooks, add pineapple rings to the grill alongside the chicken. Grill the pineapple for a few minutes on each side, until they are golden and slightly caramelized, enhancing their natural sweetness. This juicy addition brings an extra layer of flavor to your meal and complements the smoky chicken beautifully.

Step 8: Finish with Marinade
Once the chicken is thoroughly grilled and cooked through, take the reserved marinade and brush it over the chicken thighs while they rest for a few minutes off the grill. If desired, you can thicken the reserved marinade over low heat to create a more syrupy glaze. This final step helps to lock in the sweet and tangy flavors of your Hawaiian chicken.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken thighs are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals without the last-minute rush! You can marinate the chicken in your flavorful mixture for up to 24 hours in advance, giving the meat time to soak in the sweet and tangy flavors. Simply place the marinated chicken in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can grill or bake the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring you have a quick meal on hand. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in the oven or on the grill and brush with your reserved marinade for that fresh, vibrant taste, making it just as delicious as the day you made it!

Expert Tips for Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken

• Marinate Overnight: For the best flavor penetration, marinate the chicken overnight. This ensures your Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken is bursting with delicious taste.

• Grilling Temperature: Aim for a consistent medium-high heat (around 400°F) on your grill to achieve that caramelized exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures food safety while keeping your chicken perfectly cooked.

• Don’t Skip Oiling: Lightly oiling the grill grates helps prevent sticking, which can ruin that beautiful sear on your Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken.

• Serve with Fresh Garnish: Top with sliced green onions after grilling for a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the overall presentation and flavor of your dish.

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken

Fridge: Store cooked Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: Freeze uncooked chicken marinated in the glaze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling or baking.

Reheating: To reheat the fully cooked chicken, use the microwave or oven; brush with reserved marinade for added flavor. Ensure it reaches 165°F before serving.

Make-Ahead Tip: Marinate chicken for up to 24 hours in advance for ultimate convenience and flavor infusion.

Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken Variations

Feel free to sprinkle a little creativity on this dish, and tailor it to your personal taste!

Texture Twist: Swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or wings for a finger-licking experience. The different shapes and textures will give your BBQ a fun twist and make it even more enjoyable to eat.
Citrus Zing: Use lime juice instead of pineapple juice for a zestier alternative. This brightens the flavor profile and adds a refreshing kick, perfect for warm summer days.
Sweetness Switch: Substitute brown sugar with honey or agave syrup for a unique sweetness. This change gives a luscious glaze that complements the smoky chicken beautifully, making each bite a delightful surprise.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick. This heat balances the sweetness and adds depth—perfect for those who love a little adventure with their food.
Herb Infusion: Include fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley in the marinade for a vibrant herbal note. Herbs elevate the overall taste, making your Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken even more fragrant and aromatic.

For even more delicious ideas, consider serving it alongside our Brown Sugar Chicken or enjoy the flavors of our Pesto Chicken Broccoli as a side!

Tropical Addition: For a more tropical flair, add finely chopped jalapeños to the marinade. This adds a nice kick while maintaining the island vibes—a great fusion of flavors that’s hard to resist.
Nutritional Swap: Make it gluten-free by opting for tamari instead of soy sauce. This simple swap allows everyone at the table to enjoy a delicious meal without compromising on taste or texture.

What to Serve with Authentic Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Transform your backyard BBQ into a tropical feast with delightful pairings that enhance the sweet and tangy flavors of Huli Huli Chicken.

Coconut Rice: This slightly sweet and creamy rice perfectly balances the richness of the chicken, adding a delightful texture.
Macaroni Salad: A traditional Hawaiian side, its creamy goodness complements the grilled flavors, offering a refreshing contrast to the meal.
Grilled Veggies: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and corn add a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken’s sweetness, creating a colorful plate.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright chunks of watermelon, pineapple, and mango echo the tropical vibes while providing a light, juicy finish to each bite.
Tangy Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers marinated in rice vinegar create a refreshing palate cleanser, perfectly offsetting the savory richness of the chicken.
Pineapple Salsa: Chopped fresh pineapple with jalapeño and cilantro adds a zesty kick and elevates the dish with its vibrant, sweet flavors.
Hawaiian Beer: A light, fruity lager complements the meal’s tropical character, making each sip as refreshing as a day at the beach.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: The bright citrus of lemonade offers a sweet-tart contrast, while iced tea provides a mellow, refreshing complement.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, a warm chocolate cake with a gooey center brings a deliciously sweet ending to your Hawaiian feast. The rich chocolate flavor contrasts perfectly with the chicken’s sweet-tangy notes.

Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for Huli Huli Chicken?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs as they stay tender and juicy during cooking. Look for chicken that is bright pink and has a clean smell. Avoid any packages with dark spots or a slimy texture, as these can indicate spoilage.

How should I store leftover Huli Huli Chicken?
Very simple! Store your cooked Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, make sure to freeze the chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it can last up to 3 months. Just be sure to label it with the date!

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Absolutely! Freezing uncooked chicken in the marinade is a fabulous meal prep strategy. Place the chicken in a zip-top bag with the marinade, remove excess air, and seal it. Then, pop it in the freezer, where it can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before grilling.

What should I do if my chicken is overcooked?
It happens to the best of us! If your Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken turns out a bit dry from overcooking, I often recommend shredding it and tossing it with some reserved marinade or a touch of broth to help moisten the chicken. You can serve it over rice or in sandwiches to mask the dryness and add flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, indeed! To keep your Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken gluten-free, simply swap out the light soy sauce for tamari, which is made without wheat. This substitution provides the same umami flavor while making it safe for anyone with gluten sensitivities. Always check the labels on your other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

How long can I marinate the chicken?
I highly recommend marinating the chicken for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for maximum flavor penetration. Just make sure not to exceed 24 hours, as extended marination can start to break down the meat’s texture too much, making it mushy. Enjoy your delicious, flavor-infused Sweet Tangy Hawaiian Chicken!