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Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Savory Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken for Summer Grilling Bliss

This Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and smoky flavors, perfect for summer grilling.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Marination Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 36 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 4 pounds boneless chicken thighs Tender and juicy when grilled; can substitute with chicken breasts, drumsticks, or bone-in thighs.
  • 0.5 cup light brown sugar Adds sweetness and enhances caramelization; no substitute recommended.
  • 0.5 cup ketchup Provides a rich, tangy flavor; barbecue sauce could be an alternative but may alter taste.
  • 1 cup canned pineapple juice Base of the marinade for a sweet, tropical flavor; avoid using fresh pineapple juice as it can over-tenderize the meat.
  • 0.5 cup light soy sauce Adds depth and umami flavor; tamari can be used for a gluten-free version.
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce Enhances flavor complexity; no substitutes noted.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Offers a tangy acidity; white vinegar can be used in a pinch.
  • 0.5 teaspoon minced fresh ginger Contributes warmth and spice; powdered ginger can work as a substitute.
  • 4 cloves minced garlic Adds a robust savory flavor; fresh is preferred over garlic powder.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Provides smokiness; regular paprika can be used if a smoky flavor is not desired.
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper Essential for seasoning; white pepper may be used for a milder flavor.
For Grilling
  • Fresh pineapple slices Grill alongside chicken to enhance flavor and add a tropical touch.
  • Vegetable oil Grease the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  • Sliced green onions Use for garnish, offering a fresh and crunchy element to your presentation.

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Resealable Bag
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large resealable bag, combine ½ cup light brown sugar, ½ cup ketchup, 1 cup canned pineapple juice, ½ cup light soy sauce, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, ½ teaspoon minced fresh ginger, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper. Ensure everything is well mixed before moving to the next step.
  2. Reserve ½ cup of the marinade in the refrigerator for later basting. Add 4 pounds of boneless chicken thighs into the remaining marinade, seal the bag tightly, and gently massage it to coat all the chicken pieces. Refrigerate for 4-6 hours or overnight, allowing the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken to absorb those delicious flavors.
  3. About 20-30 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring the grates are clean. Lightly oil the grill grates using vegetable oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. While the grill heats up, remove the marinated chicken from the fridge to bring it to room temperature.
  4. Place the marinated chicken thighs on the preheated grill and cook for about 6 minutes without moving them, allowing those signature grill marks to form. After 6 minutes, flip the chicken and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
  5. Baste the chicken with the reserved marinade, then flip it again. Continue to grill for an additional 1-2 minutes on each side until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is beautifully charred—about 15-16 minutes total grilling time.
  6. While the chicken is finishing, place fresh pineapple slices on the grill. Grill until marked, about 2-3 minutes per side, allowing them to caramelize slightly. This step adds a delightful tropical twist to complement your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken.
  7. Once the chicken and pineapple are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill. Let the chicken rest briefly before slicing. Serve your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken along with the grilled pineapple slices, garnishing with sliced green onions for that fresh crunch and color contrast.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken longer and ensure reserved marinade for basting has not touched raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination.

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