Can I make Huli Huli Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the chicken is extra flavorful. If you plan to make it ahead, just store the marinated chicken in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator.

Can I use other types of meat for Huli Huli Chicken?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken, you can easily substitute it with pork, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for different types of meat or proteins.

Can I cook Huli Huli Chicken in the oven instead of grilling?

Yes, you can! If you prefer to cook it in the oven, preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken on a baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

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

Huli Huli Chicken pairs beautifully with side dishes like jasmine rice, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing Hawaiian mac salad. You could also serve it with a tropical fruit salad for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Huli Huli Chicken Recipe - Easy & Flavorful Meal

Name: Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1/2 cup pineapple juice; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the marinade)

Description

Huli Huli Chicken is a delicious, sweet and smoky Hawaiian-style grilled chicken recipe. It is made with a flavorful marinade featuring pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. This dish can be cooked on the grill or in the oven, offering a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. It’s a versatile recipe, ideal for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or any time you crave a tropical twist on your chicken dishes.

Ingredients

Scale

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1/2 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the marinade)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Whisk together until the sugar dissolves.
Place chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and ensure it is evenly coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat or the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For oven cooking, bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Baste the chicken with the remaining marinade every 5 minutes during cooking for extra flavor.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If using skinless chicken, adjust cooking time accordingly, as skin adds flavor and helps retain moisture.
For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari sauce.
For extra sweetness, add a bit of honey or maple syrup to the marinade.
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Grilling, Baking
Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece (1/4 of the recipe)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 33g
Cholesterol: 90mg