Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

A Hawaiian-Inspired BBQ Delight

Are you looking to elevate your summer grilling game with something tropical and unforgettable? This Huli Huli Chicken recipe is the perfect dish to impress your family and friends. Juicy, flavorful chicken thighs are marinated in a sweet and savory pineapple-ginger sauce, then grilled to perfection and paired with caramelized pineapple rings. It’s a taste of Hawaii that will transport your taste buds straight to the islands.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, prepping for a weeknight family dinner, or just want to try something new, this recipe is versatile, easy to follow, and incredibly rewarding. Keep reading for the full recipe, helpful tips, variations, and more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bursting with Flavor: The marinade blends sweet, tangy, and umami flavors with a slight kick from Sriracha.
  • Simple Ingredients: Everything you need can be found at your local grocery store—no need for specialty items.
  • Family-Friendly: While the recipe has a bit of spice, it’s mild enough for most kids to enjoy.
  • Meal Prep Made Easy: With an overnight marinade, this recipe is easy to plan ahead for busy schedules.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Ingredients for Huli Huli Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken and Marinade:

  • 2-3 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs
  • 1 20-ounce can pineapple rings (reserve ¾ cup juice; canned is best to avoid over-tenderizing the meat)
  • 1½ tablespoons minced ginger
  • 1½ tablespoons minced garlic
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • ½ cup soy sauce
  • ¼ cup AJI-Mirin Sweet Cooking Rice Seasoning
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

For Grilling:

  • 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Reserved marinade for basting

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Plastic wrap
  • Grill (charcoal or gas)
  • Tongs
  • Basting brush
  • Meat thermometer
  • Foil
  • Serving platter

How to Make Huli Huli Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, ginger, garlic, ketchup, soy sauce, AJI-Mirin, brown sugar, Sriracha, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Whisk until well combined. Set aside 1 cup of the marinade for basting later.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours, but ideally up to 48 hours. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the chicken for maximum taste.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Before cooking, grease your grill grates with vegetable oil using a basting brush or a paper towel. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken thighs on the hot grill. Close the lid and cook for 3-4 minutes per side. The chicken should release easily from the grates when it’s ready to flip.

Step 5: Baste and Finish Cooking

During the final minutes of grilling, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade. Flip and baste multiple times to build up a caramelized glaze. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Grill the Pineapple Rings

While the chicken rests, place the pineapple rings on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re slightly charred and caramelized.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the grilled chicken with the pineapple rings on the side. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch of freshness.

Tips for Success

  1. Marinate Longer for Better Flavor: While 24 hours is sufficient, marinating for 48 hours results in even deeper flavor penetration.
  2. Avoid Over-Tenderizing: Use canned pineapple juice instead of fresh, as fresh pineapple contains enzymes that can break down the meat too much.
  3. Grill Temperature Control: Keep the grill at medium-high heat to avoid burning the sugar in the marinade.
  4. Double the Sauce: Consider making an extra batch of marinade (set aside before adding raw chicken) to use as a dipping sauce.

Recipe Variations

  • Chicken Breasts: Swap the thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Adjust cooking time to ensure they don’t dry out.
  • Tofu or Pork: This marinade works beautifully with firm tofu or pork chops for a fun twist.
  • Oven-Baked Option: If you don’t have a grill, bake the chicken at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, basting halfway through.
  • Spicier Version: Add extra Sriracha or a pinch of chili flakes for more heat.

How to Store Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or on a stovetop skillet over low heat.

Food and Drink Pairings

  • Side Dishes: Pair this Huli Huli Chicken with steamed white rice, Hawaiian macaroni salad, or grilled vegetables.
  • Drinks: A fruity cocktail like a Mai Tai, or a chilled sparkling water infused with tropical flavors, pairs beautifully.
  • Dessert: End the meal with a light coconut sorbet or mango pudding for a full island experience.

FAQ

Can I use fresh pineapple for this recipe?

It’s best to use canned pineapple. Fresh pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that can over-tenderize the chicken and affect its texture.

What’s the origin of Huli Huli Chicken?

Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian barbecue dish traditionally cooked over wood coals. “Huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the process of turning the chicken during grilling.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes! You can bake the chicken in the oven or cook it on a stovetop grill pan. The flavor will still be delicious.

Bring the Flavors of Hawaii to Your Table

This Huli Huli Chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, tropical flavors and a fun twist on barbecue classics. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to be a hit with friends and family alike.

If you love this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-follow recipes. Happy grilling!

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