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Delicious Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Delicious Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

This Delicious Huli Huli Chicken Recipe captures the bold, sweet, and smoky flavors of traditional Hawaiian barbecue. Marinated in a perfect balance of soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger, this juicy, tender chicken is grilled to perfection with a sticky, caramelized glaze. Easy to prepare and versatile for any occasion, it’s a tropical-inspired dish that’s sure to satisfy and become a favorite for family meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 46 chicken thighs or breasts, skin-on

Marinade

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional)

Garnish

  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, ketchup, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a smooth and flavorful marinade.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken thighs or breasts into a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
  3. Preheat your grill: Heat your grill to medium-high temperature. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking and to help achieve signature grill marks and caramelization.
  4. Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting. Place the chicken skin-side down on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes. Flip the chicken, then baste with the reserved marinade. Continue grilling for another 6-7 minutes, regularly turning and basting until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken develops a sticky, caramelized glaze.
  5. Let it rest and garnish: After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices. Sprinkle chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the chicken before serving to add freshness and crunchy texture.

Notes

  • Marinate overnight for best flavor absorption.
  • Reserve some marinade for basting during grilling to create a glossy, sticky glaze.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly and safely.
  • Do not overcrowd the grill; leave space between pieces for even cooking and nice grill marks.
  • Using skin-on chicken helps achieve crispy skin and locks in moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Huli Huli Chicken, Hawaiian Chicken, Grilled Chicken, Pineapple Chicken, BBQ Chicken, Tropical Chicken, Gluten Free Chicken Recipe