Description

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is a tropical-inspired dish that brings the sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavors of Hawaii right to your grill. The term “Huli Huli” translates to “turn, turn,” referring to the way the chicken is turned on the grill to achieve a perfectly caramelized, tender texture. The marinade for this chicken is a delightful mix of pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger, creating a flavor profile that’s tangy, sweet, and full of umami. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, enjoying a weeknight dinner, or planning a summer get-together, Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is the perfect recipe to try for a taste of the islands.

Ingredients

Scale

For Grilled Huli Huli Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup pineapple juice
½ cup soy sauce
¼ cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade:

Combine the Marinade Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well until the sugar dissolves completely.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs or breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 45 minutes for more flavor.

Grill the Chicken:

Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C). If using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn down to a steady medium-high heat.
Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the marinade) and place the chicken on the preheated grill. Grill the chicken for about 7-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown with crispy, caramelized edges.
Turn the Chicken: Make sure to turn the chicken halfway through grilling to achieve an even, perfectly cooked result.

Serve and Garnish:

Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and optional sesame seeds for an added crunch. Serve with your favorite side dishes like rice, grilled vegetables, or a tropical fruit salad.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Category: dinner

Nutrition

Calories: 300-350 kcal
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 28g