Imagine the sun setting over a Hawaiian beach, the warm breeze carrying the intoxicating scent of grilled chicken, sweet and savory. That’s the spirit of Huli Huli Chicken, and you don’t need to book a flight to enjoy it! This irresistible dish is rooted in tradition, bursting with tropical flavors thanks to tangy pineapple juice and a hint of ginger.
I discovered this gem during a backyard barbecue, when a friend introduced me to its mouthwatering marinade. It quickly became our summer staple, a crowd-pleaser that turns any gathering into a festive occasion. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up, requiring just a bit of prep time and a few hours of marinading before it transforms into a dish that’s sure to impress.
Whether you’re looking to escape the routine of fast food or simply want to serve something special at your next dinner, this Huli Huli Chicken recipe provides a delightful solution—tender, caramelized chicken that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Let’s dive in and create some delicious Hawaiian vibes right in your kitchen!
Why is Huli Huli Chicken a must-try?
Tropical Escape: You’ll feel like you’re on a Hawaiian vacation with every bite of this flavorful dish.
Family-Friendly: Perfectly suited for all ages, Huli Huli Chicken is a sure-fire way to get everyone excited about dinner.
Minimal Effort: It takes just 15 minutes of active prep time before the marinade does all the magic overnight.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this dish will have your friends and family coming back for seconds!
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, grilled veggies, or on a fresh salad for a complete meal that fits any occasion.
Why not elevate your cooking game today? Dive into this recipe and experience the joy of homemade flavors!
Huli Huli Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 (3 pound) chickens – each cut into 8 pieces for even cooking and juicy flavor.
For the Marinade
- 1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice – brings sweetness and a tropical flair to the Huli Huli Chicken.
- ½ cup soy sauce – adds a rich, umami depth that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
- ½ cup brown sugar – caramelizes beautifully during cooking, enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.
- ⅓ cup ketchup – contributes tanginess and aids in the marinade’s overall consistency.
- ¼ cup sherry – infuses a subtle complexity that elevates the taste of the chicken.
- 1 (2 inch) piece fresh ginger – crushed for a zesty kick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic – crushed to unleash aromatic goodness and enhance flavor balance.
- 4 green onions – chopped to add freshness and a pop of color to your dish.
- ¼ teaspoon dry mustard – a secret ingredient that adds a slight tang and depth to the marinade.
Get ready to enjoy this delightful Huli Huli Chicken that’s full of flavor and easy to make!
How to Make Huli Huli Chicken
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Rinse chicken pieces under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. This helps remove any extra moisture, ensuring the marinade adheres perfectly to the chicken.
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Combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, sherry, ginger, garlic, green onions, and dry mustard in a large resealable plastic bag. Stir until the brown sugar has dissolved to create a flavorful marinade.
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Add the chicken pieces to the bag, squeezing out any excess air before sealing it. Gently massage the bag to coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade, allowing the flavors to infuse for maximum deliciousness.
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Refrigerate the sealed bag for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This resting time is key for ensuring your chicken becomes juicy and flavorful.
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and move an oven rack 6 inches from the heat source. This sets the stage for crispy, golden skin on your chicken.
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Remove the chicken from the marinade and arrange the pieces, skin side up, on a broiler pan. This allows the heat to circulate around the chicken for even cooking.
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Bake the chicken in the preheated oven, turning every 10 minutes for 30 to 45 minutes until both sides are golden brown and juices run clear. Baste with the remaining marinade each time you turn to enhance the flavor.
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Check doneness by inserting an instant-read meat thermometer into the thickest piece of chicken, ensuring it reads at least 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for an extra touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Huli Huli Chicken pieces are perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Simply follow the marinating steps, then refrigerate the sealed bag until you’re ready to cook. To maintain quality, be sure to store the chicken in an airtight container to prevent any moisture loss. When you’re ready to serve, just preheat your oven and bake as instructed; you’ll still get that mouthwatering, juicy chicken that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh. Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Huli Huli Chicken
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Marinade Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight deepens the flavors significantly. Don’t rush this step for best results!
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Dry Chicken: Always pat the chicken dry before marinating to ensure the marinade clings better, resulting in a juicier Huli Huli Chicken.
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Basting Technique: Baste the chicken with marinade every time you turn it. This adds layers of flavor and keeps the meat moist.
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Oven Positioning: Make sure the oven rack is placed correctly to get that crispy skin. Six inches from the heat source is crucial!
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Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. It’s the best way to prevent undercooked chicken and ensure safety.
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Leftovers Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheating can be delicious if done gently!
Huli Huli Chicken Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to customize this flavorful recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!
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Chicken Alternatives: Substitute with tofu or tempeh for a delicious plant-based version that absorbs the marinade beautifully.
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Pineapple Juice Swap: Use orange juice for a citrus twist that adds a vibrant, refreshing flavor to your Huli Huli Chicken.
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Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake while still enjoying that umami kick.
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Sweetener Switch: Swap brown sugar for honey or maple syrup to provide an alternative natural sweetness with a unique flavor profile.
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Ginger Kick: Add a pinch of ground ginger along with fresh to deepen that zesty spice, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.
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Heat it Up: Mix in a teaspoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce into the marinade for those who crave a little kick!
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Veggie Boost: Toss in pineapple chunks, bell peppers, or snap peas in your broiler pan to bring vibrant color and extra nutrients to your dish.
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Grill Option: For smoky flavors, grill the chicken instead of baking it; simply marinate as directed and then place over medium heat.
Each of these variations opens the door to creativity in the kitchen. Enjoy making this dish uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Huli Huli Chicken?
Create a delightful meal experience that your family will love, with these perfect pairings for your flavorful chicken feast.
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Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness complements the tangy chicken, providing a creamy texture that balances the dish beautifully.
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Grilled Pineapple: Adding some caramelized pineapple brings a refreshing sweetness that enhances the tropical vibes and echoes the marinade.
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Asian Slaw: A crunchy mix of cabbage and carrots with a tangy dressing offers a crisp contrast, lightening the plate while adding a refreshing bite.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini, roasted until tender, add depth and a burst of color alongside your Huli Huli Chicken.
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Garlic Bread: Soft and slightly buttery, garlic bread makes the perfect vehicle for soaking up the flavorful juices from the chicken, creating a delightful indulgence.
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Mango Smoothie: A creamy, fruity drink rounds out the meal, accentuating the tropical flavors and making the dining experience feel truly special.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, this rich, gooey treat provides a sweet, decadent contrast to the savory, tangy chicken, ensuring a satisfying finish to your meal.
How to Store and Freeze Huli Huli Chicken
Fridge: Keep any leftover Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its juicy flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze grilled chicken pieces in a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove excess air before sealing.
Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. This helps retain moisture and flavor.
Marinade Use: If you’ve marinated extra chicken, remember to use it fully or discard any leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken to ensure food safety.
Huli Huli Chicken Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting pineapples for the marinade?
Absolutely! When choosing pineapples for your Huli Huli Chicken, look for fruit that’s firm and slightly soft when pressed. The color should be a vibrant yellow, and there shouldn’t be any dark spots all over the skin. Feel free to pick up a fresh pineapple; the taste will be unmatched compared to canned juice!
How should I store leftover Huli Huli Chicken?
For the best taste and texture, store any leftover Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it tasting fresh, allow it to cool completely before sealing the container. Remember, the chicken will retain its moisture better in airtight conditions.
Can I freeze Huli Huli Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze grilled chicken pieces for up to 3 months. To do this, let the chicken cool completely first. Then place it in a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the bag with the date so you can keep track!
What if my chicken isn’t browning in the oven?
Very! If you find that your chicken isn’t browning as expected, it might be due to your oven rack not being close enough to the heat source. Be sure to position the rack about 6 inches from the heat before baking. Also, don’t forget to baste it with the marinade during cooking to encourage that delicious caramelization.
Is there a way to make Huli Huli Chicken gluten-free?
The more the merrier! To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. These alternatives will provide the same umami flavor without the gluten. Ensure all other ingredients, especially the sherry, are gluten-free as well to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
Can pets eat Huli Huli Chicken?
Definitely consult your vet! While plain chicken is typically safe for dogs, it’s best to avoid sharing any with marinade, especially since it contains soy sauce and sherry, which can be harmful to pets. Always prioritize your furry friends’ health and safety.
Irresistible Huli Huli Chicken for Your Next Dinner Adventure
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse chicken pieces under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, sherry, ginger, garlic, green onions, and dry mustard in a large resealable plastic bag. Stir until the brown sugar has dissolved.
- Add the chicken pieces to the bag, squeezing out any excess air before sealing it. Gently massage the bag to coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade.
- Refrigerate the sealed bag for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and move an oven rack 6 inches from the heat source.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and arrange the pieces, skin side up, on a broiler pan.
- Bake the chicken, turning every 10 minutes for 30 to 45 minutes until both sides are golden brown and juices run clear. Baste with the remaining marinade each time you turn.
- Check doneness by inserting an instant-read meat thermometer into the thickest piece of chicken to ensure it reads at least 160°F (70°C).