Name: Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1 cup pineapple juice (unsweetened); ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred); ⅓ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup ketchup; ¼ cup rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat); 3 to 4 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

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Huli Huli Chicken is a legendary Hawaiian dish, known for its irresistible blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. This grilled chicken recipe draws its name from the Hawaiian word “huli,” meaning “turn,” referring to how the chicken is traditionally rotated over a grill. Perfectly caramelized on the outside and juicy inside, Huli Huli Chicken is not only a staple at Hawaiian gatherings but a rising favorite at backyard barbecues worldwide. With this detailed guide, we present the most flavorful and authentic version of this tropical classic.

Ingredients for the Perfect Huli Huli Chicken

To achieve the true depth of Hawaiian flavor, we use a carefully curated list of ingredients that balance sweetness, acidity, and umami.

For the Marinade:

1 cup pineapple juice (unsweetened)
½ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
⅓ cup brown sugar
¼ cup ketchup
¼ cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

For the Chicken:

3 to 4 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Directions to Make Huli Huli Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper flakes until the sugar dissolves completely. This flavorful marinade is the heart of your Huli Huli Chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or airtight container. Pour in two-thirds of the marinade, ensuring the chicken is fully coated. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. If using charcoal, create a two-zone fire to allow indirect cooking for thicker pieces.

Step 4: Grill and Baste

Remove chicken from the marinade and shake off excess. Place the chicken skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, flipping every few minutes. Begin basting with the reserved marinade after the first flip, continuing every time you turn the chicken.

Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and the skin is deeply caramelized and slightly charred, about 25 to 30 minutes total, depending on the size of the pieces.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Transfer the grilled chicken to a platter and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an added pop of flavor and presentation.

Pro Tips for the Best Huli Huli Chicken

Use Bone-In Chicken for Juiciness

Bone-in, skin-on pieces retain moisture better and result in more flavorful meat. Chicken thighs or drumsticks work best.

Don’t Skip the Pineapple Juice

Pineapple juice adds natural sweetness and a hint of tang while also helping to tenderize the meat.

Marinate Overnight

For the most robust flavor, marinate the chicken for 12 to 24 hours. This allows the meat to fully absorb the marinade.

Grill Over Indirect Heat

Start grilling over direct heat for a charred sear, then finish over indirect heat to prevent burning and allow the chicken to cook through evenly.

Frequent Turning is Key

True to its name, turn (huli) the chicken often and baste generously to build layers of flavor and achieve that signature glaze.

Serving Suggestions for Huli Huli Chicken

Pair Huli Huli Chicken with traditional Hawaiian sides for a complete tropical meal:

Steamed Jasmine or Coconut Rice
Grilled Pineapple Slices
Macaroni Salad
Lomi Lomi Salmon
Tropical Fruit Salad

This dish also works well in Hawaiian chicken sliders, served in sweet rolls with slaw and extra sauce.

Conclusion

Huli Huli Chicken is more than a meal it’s a culinary experience rooted in Hawaiian tradition and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re grilling for a summer feast or craving tropical comfort food, this recipe delivers on all fronts. With a careful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes, plus that signature grilled char, your table will be transformed into a Hawaiian luau.

FAQs

Can I bake Huli Huli Chicken instead of grilling?

Yes. Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the chicken on a lined baking sheet for 35-40 minutes, basting every 10 minutes with the reserved marinade.

Is Huli Huli Chicken spicy?

Not inherently. The base recipe is sweet and savory. Add crushed red pepper flakes or Sriracha to spice it up according to taste.

Can I freeze Huli Huli Chicken?

Yes, both the raw marinated chicken and cooked leftovers freeze well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

What’s a good substitute for pineapple juice?

Use orange juice with a splash of lemon juice, though the flavor profile will differ slightly. Pineapple juice is recommended for authenticity.

How do I avoid burning the marinade on the grill?

Keep the grill temperature moderate and start basting after the chicken has seared. Move pieces to indirect heat zones as needed

Huli Huli Chicken Recipe