Hawaiian Huli Huli Grilled Chicken – Sweet, Smoky & Juicy Island-Style Chicken

This Hawaiian Huli Huli grilled chicken is juicy, tender, and coated in a sweet-savory tropical glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. The marinade blends pineapple, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to create bold island flavor in every bite. It’s perfect for BBQ nights, summer dinners, or easy family grilling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and savory Hawaiian flavor
• Juicy, tender grilled chicken
• Caramelized sticky glaze
• Easy marinade-based recipe
• Perfect for BBQ or outdoor grilling
• Family-friendly dinner option
• Tropical pineapple flavor
• Great for meal prep or parties
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Restaurant-style grilled chicken

Ingredients

Chicken

• 2 1/2 pounds chicken thighs or breasts

Huli Huli Marinade

• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnish

• Green onions, sliced
• Sesame seeds
• Pineapple slices

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, ginger, oils, and pepper.
2. Add chicken to marinade and refrigerate for at least 2–8 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and oil grates lightly.
4. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, basting with marinade until caramelized and cooked through.
5. Rest chicken, then garnish and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Marinate overnight for deeper flavor
• Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness
• Add chili flakes for heat
• Grill pineapple slices alongside chicken
• Use grill pan if indoors
• Reserve marinade for basting only (not raw serving)
• Let chicken rest before slicing
• Add honey for extra sweetness
• Serve sliced over rice bowls
• Use skewers for kabob version

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store refrigerated up to 4 days
• Freeze cooked chicken up to 2 months
• Reheat gently to keep moisture
• Store marinade separately if prepping ahead
• Keep in airtight container

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Steamed jasmine rice
• Grilled pineapple
• Coconut rice
• Macaroni salad
• Coleslaw
• Roasted vegetables
• Hawaiian rolls
• Fresh green salad
• Grilled corn
• Tropical fruit salad

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “Huli Huli” mean?

It means “turn turn” in Hawaiian, referring to turning chicken while grilling.

Can I bake this instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, then broil for caramelization.

Can I use chicken breast?

Yes, but thighs stay more juicy and flavorful.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, marinate overnight for best flavor and grill when ready.

Ready to Make It?

This Hawaiian Huli Huli grilled chicken is juicy, sweet, and packed with tropical island flavor. It’s an easy grilled recipe that brings a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and sweet in every bite.

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• Grilled Chicken Burgers – perfect pairing.

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