Description
Huli Huli Chicken is a flavorful Hawaiian grilled chicken dish marinated in a sweet and savory blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar. Perfect for summer cookouts or a tropical-inspired meal, this recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken thighs with a caramelized glaze and charred finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or bone-in for more flavor)
Marinade
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Garnish (optional)
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring the grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting. Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes on each side, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and has a nice char. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Discard any leftover marinade. Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes to retain its juices before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired, and serve alongside rice or grilled pineapple for a complete meal.
Notes
- This sweet and savory Hawaiian-style chicken is perfect for cookouts and casual gatherings.
- For a smoky twist, add a dash of liquid smoke to the marinade before marinating the chicken.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (204°C) for 25–30 minutes until cooked through.
- Bone-in chicken thighs can be used instead of boneless for added flavor but may require slightly longer cooking time.
