Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

The Huli Huli Chicken Recipe brings authentic Hawaiian flavors to your backyard grill.

This sweet and savory dish combines pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar for an irresistible glaze.

The name “huli huli” means “turn turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the constant turning needed while grilling.

This recipe creates tender, juicy chicken with a beautiful caramelized exterior that your family will love.

Originally created by Ernest Morgado in 1955, this Hawaiian BBQ favorite has become a local institution.

The Huli Huli Chicken Recipe uses simple ingredients to create complex flavors.

The marinade penetrates deep into the meat, ensuring every bite is packed with tropical taste.

Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or craving island-inspired cuisine, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home.

When I First Introduced To

My first encounter with Huli Huli Chicken Recipe happened during a Hawaiian vacation. A local food truck served this golden, glazed chicken that smelled incredible.

One bite revealed layers of sweet and savory flavors I’d never experienced. The chicken was perfectly tender with a sticky, caramelized coating.

Since then, I’ve been perfecting this Huli Huli Chicken Recipe to recreate those amazing vacation memories at home.

Equipment List

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Gallon-sized ziplock bags
• Grill or grill pan
• Tongs
• Basting brush
• Meat thermometer
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients List

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Step by Step Preparation

1. Combine pineapple juice and soy sauce in bowl.
2. Add brown sugar and whisk until dissolved.
3. Mix in ketchup, garlic, and ginger.
4. Add rice vinegar and sesame oil.
5. Season with black pepper and mix well.
6. Place chicken thighs in ziplock bags.
7. Pour marinade over chicken pieces.
8. Seal bags and refrigerate for hours.
9. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
10. Remove chicken from marinade, reserve liquid.
11. Grill chicken skin-side down for minutes.
12. Flip and baste with reserved marinade.
13. Continue grilling, turning every few minutes.
14. Cook until internal temperature reaches degrees.
15. Let chicken rest for minutes before serving.

Recipe Tips

1. Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor penetration and better results.
2. Reserve some marinade separately before adding raw chicken for safe basting.
3. Keep grill temperature consistent to prevent burning the sugary glaze coating.
4. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature safely.
5. Let chicken rest after grilling to redistribute juices for maximum tenderness.

What Can You Serve With Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

• Coconut Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice cooked with coconut milk creates the perfect tropical side dish. The creamy texture balances the bold flavors of the chicken beautifully.
• Grilled Pineapple: Fresh pineapple slices grilled until caramelized add natural sweetness. This classic Hawaiian side complements the chicken’s savory-sweet profile perfectly.
• Asian Coleslaw: Crisp cabbage slaw with sesame dressing provides refreshing crunch. The light, tangy flavors cleanse the palate between bites.

Conclusion

This Huli Huli Chicken Recipe transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary Hawaiian feast.

The sweet and savory marinade creates incredible depth of flavor that rivals any restaurant.

With simple ingredients and easy techniques, you can bring tropical paradise to your dinner table tonight.

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