Incredible Huli Huli Chicken In 40 Minutes

Name: Incredible Huli Huli Chicken In 40 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: PT-487277H3M1S
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 4-5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar; 1/2 cup ketchup; 1/2 cup light soy sauce; 1/2 cup canned pineapple juice; 1 tablespoon ginger paste; 1 tablespoon garlic paste; 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika; Pineapple rings for grilling; 1/2 cup sliced green onions for garnish

by inass sped

July 23, 2025

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Huli Huli Chicken has been my go-to for sunny days and backyard barbecues ever since I first tasted it at a luau years ago. The aroma of sweet, tangy pineapple and savory soy sauce grilling over open flames instantly transports me back to that warm Hawaiian evening. This recipe captures that magic, bringing the authentic taste of Hawaiian chicken right to your kitchen with minimal fuss. I’ve found that making these tender, juicy chicken thighs is surprisingly simple, even for a weeknight dinner. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Huli Huli Chicken

Incredible sweet and savory taste that’s truly addictive.
Super quick prep time for an easy weeknight meal.
A healthier choice with lean chicken thighs.
Budget-friendly ingredients that won’t break the bank.
This is an easy grilled chicken recipe that’s perfect for beginners.
Guaranteed to be a family-friendly chicken dish everyone will devour.
The pineapple glaze adds a unique tropical twist.
Enjoy this easy grilled chicken with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients for Huli Huli Chicken

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to unlocking that amazing Hawaiian chicken flavor. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory creates the signature taste of this delicious pineapple chicken.

4-5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs – the best cut for juiciness
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar – for that classic sweet glaze
1/2 cup ketchup – adds body and a tangy depth
1/2 cup light soy sauce – the savory backbone of the marinade
1/2 cup canned pineapple juice – essential for tenderness and tropical flavor
1 tablespoon ginger paste – for a warm, zesty kick
1 tablespoon garlic paste – adds aromatic punch
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – balances the sweetness with acidity
1/2 teaspoon cumin – a hint of earthy spice
1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper – for a little bite
1/2 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika – adds subtle color and flavor
Pineapple rings for grilling – optional but wonderful for serving
1/2 cup sliced green onions for garnish – for a fresh, bright finish

How to Make Huli Huli Chicken

Step 1: Let’s get that grill fired up! Preheat your grill to a nice medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, make sure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Rinse your chicken thighs and pat them completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting a good sear and ensuring the marinade adheres properly.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, pineapple juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, apple cider vinegar, cumin, black pepper, and paprika. This is where the magic happens, creating that signature sweet and tangy marinade for your Huli Huli Chicken.
Step 4: Now, set aside about 1/2 cup of this delicious marinade. This reserved portion will be perfect for basting the chicken as it cooks or for serving on the side.
Step 5: Add the dried chicken thighs to the bowl with the remaining marinade. Toss them gently to make sure every piece is thoroughly coated. You want that beautiful, rich color to start developing right away.
Step 6: Cover the bowl or transfer the chicken and marinade to a zip-top bag. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to let all those amazing flavors really soak into the chicken. This marinating time is key for tender, deeply flavored soy glazed chicken.
Step 7: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the hot grill. Cook for about 10 minutes on the first side until you see those lovely grill marks and the chicken starts to firm up.
Step 8: Flip the chicken and grill for another 8-10 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when you check with a meat thermometer. The chicken should be cooked through and juicy.

Incredible Huli Huli Chicken In 40 Minutes - Huli Huli Chicken - main visual representation

Step 9: If you’re using pineapple rings, grill them alongside the chicken for a few minutes per side until they have those beautiful charred marks.
Step 10: Remove the chicken and pineapple from the grill. Brush the chicken generously with the reserved marinade, letting that glossy, soy glazed chicken finish shine.
Step 11: Garnish your incredible Huli Huli Chicken with sliced green onions and serve immediately with the grilled pineapple. It’s a truly satisfying meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Huli Huli Chicken

Achieving that perfect island flavor is all about a few key techniques. I’ve picked up some tricks that make all the difference!

Marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for maximum flavor infusion.
Don’t overcrowd the grill; give the chicken plenty of space for even cooking and those beautiful char marks.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly to 165°F without drying out.
Reserve some marinade for basting, but remember to boil it first if it has touched raw chicken for food safety.

What’s the secret to perfect Huli Huli Chicken?

The real secret is the balance in the marinade – that perfect blend of sweet pineapple and savory soy sauce makes it truly irresistible. It creates a wonderfully sweet and savory chicken that’s hard to beat.

Can I make Huli Huli Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. It makes party prep so much easier!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Huli Huli Chicken?

The biggest mistake is not marinating long enough. Also, avoid overcooking; use a thermometer to guarantee juicy, tender chicken every time. Make sure your grill is hot enough to get those delicious grill marks.

Incredible Huli Huli Chicken In 40 Minutes - Huli Huli Chicken - additional detail

Best Ways to Serve Huli Huli Chicken

This delicious Huli Huli Chicken is so versatile! It pairs wonderfully with classic Hawaiian sides that make it a truly complete and family friendly chicken meal. I love serving it with fluffy white rice to soak up any extra marinade, or with some grilled pineapple rings for that extra burst of tropical sweetness.

For a lighter option, a fresh, crisp coleslaw or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is fantastic. You could also add some grilled corn on the cob or roasted sweet potatoes for a more substantial meal. The sweet and savory notes of the chicken complement almost anything!

Nutrition Facts for Huli Huli Chicken

When enjoying this delicious Huli Huli Chicken, here’s a general idea of what you can expect per serving. Remember, these are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

Calories: ~350-450
Fat: ~18-25g
Saturated Fat: ~5-8g
Protein: ~30-40g
Carbohydrates: ~20-30g
Fiber: ~1-2g
Sugar: ~15-25g
Sodium: ~600-900mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Huli Huli Chicken

Leftover Huli Huli Chicken is a treasure, and proper storage ensures it stays delicious. Once the chicken has cooled slightly, transfer it to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, it will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. This makes future meals a breeze!

When you’re ready to enjoy your stored Huli Huli Chicken, reheating is key to bringing back that juicy, grilled flavor. The best method is to gently reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can place it on a baking sheet under a broiler for a few minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. This ensures your chicken retains its wonderful texture and taste.

Frequently Asked Questions About Huli Huli Chicken

What makes Huli Huli Chicken so special?

It’s the unique marinade! The blend of sweet pineapple juice, savory soy sauce, and brown sugar creates an unforgettable sweet and tangy flavor profile. This signature taste is what makes Huli Huli Chicken a beloved classic of Hawaiian cuisine. It’s truly a taste of the islands!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Huli Huli Chicken?

While chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and ability to withstand grilling, you can use breasts. Just be extra careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out quickly. Grill them for a slightly shorter time, checking the internal temperature frequently to ensure they reach 165°F.

How do I get that authentic Hawaiian chicken flavor?

The key is the marinating time and the quality of your marinade ingredients. Ensuring the chicken marinates for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Using fresh ginger and garlic paste also makes a big difference in the authentic taste of this Hawaiian chicken.

What are good side dishes to serve with Huli Huli Chicken?

Classic Hawaiian sides like steamed white rice, macaroni salad, or grilled pineapple are perfect pairings. For a lighter meal, consider a fresh green salad with a tropical dressing or some roasted sweet potatoes. These complement the sweet and savory notes of the chicken beautifully.

Variations of Huli Huli Chicken You Can Try

Looking to switch things up or cater to specific dietary needs? This Huli Huli Chicken recipe is wonderfully adaptable! For a gluten-free version, easily swap the soy sauce for coconut aminos or gluten-free tamari. If you’re craving a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a swirl of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.

Don’t have a grill? No problem! This is still an easy grilled chicken to make. You can bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until cooked through, or even broil it for a similar charred effect. For a vegetarian twist, try marinating firm tofu or large portobello mushrooms in the same delicious sauce for a flavorful meatless meal.