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This Huli Huli Chicken bursts with sweet and savory island flavors thanks to an irresistible homemade marinade of pineapple juice, soy, ginger, and brown sugar. Grilling locks in the juicy goodness and makes each bite unforgettable—this has become my go-to recipe for summer cookouts and family gatherings.
I whipped this up on a whim for a birthday barbecue and it instantly became everyone’s most requested dish. My kids now beg for it on every warm weekend.
Ingredients
- Pineapple juice: Provides the classic sweet tangy Hawaiian flavor Always choose 100 percent juice for best results
- Light brown sugar: Sweetens and caramelizes the chicken Use fresh and soft sugar for easy blending
- Ketchup: Adds a rich base and deep color Look for brands with minimal added sugar
- Reduced sodium soy sauce: Balances the sweetness with salty umami I recommend low sodium to keep it from getting too salty
- Chicken broth: Adds a layer of savory depth Use a good quality store bought or homemade broth
- Fresh ginger: Packs in zingy brightness Freshly minced ginger works best avoid ground ginger if possible
- Fresh garlic: Enhances the marinade with a punchy aroma and depth Always mince fresh for more flavor
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs are juicier and more forgiving on the grill Select well trimmed meat without excess fat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Marinade:
- Whisk pineapple juice light brown sugar ketchup soy sauce chicken broth minced ginger and minced garlic together in a medium bowl until all sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth This takes a couple of minutes of whisking for a fully blended marinade
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Divide the marinade aside one cup for basting later Place chicken thighs or breasts in large resealable bags with marinade making sure each piece is well coated Seal the bags press out excess air then set in the fridge for at least six hours or overnight for maximum flavor
- Prep the Grill:
- Drain the chicken from the marinade and discard used marinade Oil the grill racks by dabbing a paper towel dipped in cooking oil held with long tongs Preheat the grill to medium heat so the chicken sears well but does not burn
- Grill the Chicken:
- Arrange chicken pieces on the hot grill cover and cook for six to eight minutes on each side Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165 degrees Fahrenheit During the last five minutes baste the chicken with reserved marinade for added shine and extra flavor
- Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the grilled chicken to a platter Serve with fresh pineapple slices and a sprinkle of green onions I like to grill the pineapple slices for a caramelized finish
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I have a soft spot for juicy pineapple so I never skip pairing it with the grilled chicken hot off the flames. My kids actually compete for the last piece of grilled pineapple at every meal.
Storage Tips
Leftover Huli Huli Chicken should be cooled and refrigerated in airtight containers It will keep for up to four days in the fridge Reheat gently in the oven or microwave For longer storage slice and freeze in portions then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating
Ingredients Substitutions
If you do not have pineapple juice try fresh orange juice for a different citrus note Tamari or coconut aminos will swap in well for soy sauce If you like a bit of heat stir in minced fresh chili or a few drops of hot sauce to the marinade
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this chicken over steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice It is delicious with grilled veggies like bell peppers and zucchini For a true Hawaiian flair add a scoop of macaroni salad and grilled pineapple on the side
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Cultural Context
Huli Huli literally means turn turn in Hawaiian a nod to the traditional grilling method of continuously flipping chicken over open coals This recipe captures the island spirit with its blend of sweet smoky and salty flavors perfect for any backyard gathering
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → What makes the marinade unique?
Pineapple juice adds sweetness and tenderizes, while soy sauce, ginger, and garlic round out the flavor.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work as well; just monitor grilling time to avoid overcooking.
- → Is it necessary to marinate overnight?
Marinating overnight yields deeper flavor, but a minimum of 6 hours still gives delicious results.
- → How do I prevent sticking when grilling?
Lightly oil the grill rack with a paper towel and tongs before placing the chicken over heat.
- → What can I serve alongside?
Fresh or grilled pineapple, rice, and sliced green onions pair perfectly with these flavors.