Huli Huli Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Hawaiian BBQ Dish!

If you’re looking for a chicken recipe that transports your taste buds to a tropical paradise, Huli Huli Chicken is just what you need. This classic Hawaiian dish is bursting with sweet and savory flavors, making it a must-try for anyone who loves a good grilled Huli Huli chicken. Whether you’re a fan of grilling or prefer baking, this recipe is versatile and works perfectly for either method. The caramelized glaze and tender chicken will have your family asking for seconds, and it’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

What is Huli Huli Chicken?

Huli Huli Chicken is a traditional Hawaiian grilled chicken dish known for its flavorful marinade, usually made with soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. The name “Huli Huli” means “turn, turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the way the chicken is traditionally cooked on a rotisserie, turning continuously over a flame. What makes Huli Huli Chicken so special is its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors, all thanks to the rich Huli Huli sauce.

Whether you grill or bake it, this authentic Huli Huli chicken recipe brings the warmth of Hawaii straight to your kitchen. The dish is often served at Hawaiian BBQs and is beloved for its caramelized, smoky goodness.

Ingredients List For Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need for this simple Huli Huli Chicken recipe:

• 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (you can use bone-in if preferred)
• ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• ¼ cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
• ¼ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger (grated)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, but great for added umami)
• Green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

This Huli Huli Chicken recipe with pineapple juice offers a tangy and tropical flavor that makes it stand out from other Hawaiian chicken recipes.

Substitutions and Variations

Cooking should always be flexible. Here are some ideas to tweak the Huli Huli Chicken recipe to suit your preferences:

• Chicken: While this recipe uses boneless chicken thighs, you can also make baked Huli Huli chicken thighs if you prefer. If you’re looking for a fun party dish, try using chicken wings or drumsticks.
• Pineapple juice: No pineapple juice? Swap it for orange juice for a different but still tropical flavor.
• Soy sauce: To make it gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
• Heat level: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha to the marinade for a spicier version.
• Grilled or baked: If grilling isn’t an option, you can easily make baked Huli Huli chicken in the oven, and I’ll share those instructions below!

Huli Huli Chicken Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and Worcestershire sauce. This mixture creates the classic Huli Huli sauce.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the boneless chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, though overnight is best for a deeper flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill or Oven

For grilled Huli Huli chicken, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. For baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, turning frequently to avoid burning and to create that signature caramelized crust.

Step 5: Or Bake the Chicken

To make Huli Huli chicken in the oven, line a baking sheet with foil and place the marinated chicken on it. Bake for 20-25 minutes, basting occasionally with the remaining marinade. For an extra crispy finish, broil for the last 3-5 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Huli Huli Chicken

• Over-marinating: Marinating the chicken for too long can break down the meat fibers, resulting in mushy chicken. Aim for no more than 24 hours.
• Not turning the chicken often enough: If grilling, turn the chicken frequently to avoid burning and to achieve that perfect caramelization.
• Skipping the basting: Basting the chicken with the leftover marinade while cooking is essential for locking in flavor and creating that beautiful glaze.

Huli Huli Chicken Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters, especially when you’re bringing some Hawaiian flair to the table! Serve Huli Huli Chicken on a platter lined with grilled pineapple rings for a tropical vibe. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for color and texture.

How to Serve Huli Huli Chicken

This dish is incredibly versatile. Here are a few serving ideas:

• Rice: Steamed white or brown rice is a classic pairing for Hawaiian BBQ chicken.
• Grilled vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob are excellent sides.
• Hawaiian rolls: Soft, sweet rolls are perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
• Tropical fruit salad: A mix of pineapple, mango, and papaya brings a refreshing balance to the savory chicken.

Extra Recipe Tips For Huli Huli Chicken

• Make ahead: Prepare the marinade a day in advance for easy meal prep.
• Grill vs. oven: If you don’t have access to a grill, this Huli Huli chicken recipe oven version is just as delicious.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken before marinating for even flavor absorption.

How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal for the best flavor.

What if I don’t have a grill?
You can easily make baked Huli Huli chicken in the oven, and broiling it at the end will give you that nice caramelized finish.

What’s the origin of Huli Huli Chicken?
Huli Huli Chicken originates from Hawaii and is a popular dish at local BBQs, often cooked over an open flame.

Final Thoughts

This authentic Huli Huli Chicken recipe is not only packed with flavor, but it also brings the warmth of Hawaii to your kitchen. Whether you’re grilling it up for a summer BBQ or baking it for a cozy family dinner, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to turn, turn—Huli Huli—for that perfect caramelization. Give it a try, and soon, it’ll be a staple in your recipe rotation!