Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken 🌺🍍🔥


For the Marinade/Glaze:

  • 1 cup pineapple juice (fresh or bottled)

  • ½ cup soy sauce (or tamari for GF)

  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed

  • ¼ cup ketchup

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar

  • 1 tsp sesame oil

  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Chicken:

  • 3-4 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor!)

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for grill)

  • Sliced green onions & sesame seeds (for garnish)

  • Grilled pineapple rings (optional, but highly recommended!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Marinade

  • Whisk all marinade ingredients in a bowl.

  • Reserve ½ cup for basting later (don’t cross-contaminate!).

2. Marinate the Chicken

  • Place chicken in a ziplock bag or dish, pour marinade over, and refrigerate at least 2 hours (or overnight).

3. Grill the Chicken

  • Preheat grill to medium-high (375°F/190°C). Oil grates.

  • Grill chicken 5-6 mins per side, then start basting with reserved glaze.

  • Cook 15-20 mins total, flipping and basting often, until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).

4. Garnish & Serve!

  • Top with grilled pineapple, green onions, and sesame seeds.

  • Serve with rice, mac salad, or a fresh pineapple salsa.

Pro Tips for the Best Huli Huli Chicken

🔥 Charred edges? Move chicken to indirect heat if flare-ups happen.
🍯 Extra sticky glaze? Simmer reserved marinade 5 mins to thicken.
🍗 No grill? Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 mins, broiling at the end.
🌶 Spicy twist? Add 1 tbsp sriracha to the marinade.

Serving Suggestions

🍚 Classic Plate Lunch – White rice + macaroni salad.
🌮 Taco Style – Shred and serve in tortillas with slaw.
🥗 Healthy Bowl – Over greens with mango and avocado.

Final Thoughts

This Huli Huli Chicken is tropical comfort food at its finest—juicy, caramelized, and bursting with flavor. Will you make it for your next BBQ? Let us know in the comments!

 

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