Name: Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: ½ cup brown sugar (packed); ½ cup ketchup; ½ cup soy sauce (preferably reduced sodium); ½ cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger root (minced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 teaspoons rice vinegar; 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 12 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 3 pounds); Green onions; Pineapple slices

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 3 reviews

If you want to bring a burst of tropical flavor and irresistible caramelized goodness to your dinner table, then you absolutely need to try this Huli Huli Chicken Recipe. This Hawaiian-inspired dish features tender, juicy chicken thighs bathed in a beautifully balanced marinade that is both sweet and savory, with hints of garlic, ginger, and sesame that make every bite a celebration. The slow marinating process allows the flavors to fully penetrate, and grilling creates that signature smoky, sticky glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you master this recipe, it will become a favorite to whip up for family and friends any time you want to impress effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In the center, there is a metal tray filled with several pieces of raw chicken thighs that are light pink with some seasoning on top. Around the tray, there are eight small containers placed on a white marbled surface: at the top left, a glass measuring cup with a light yellow liquid; at the top right, a white bowl filled with a dark brown liquid; to the right side of the tray, a small white bowl with a light brown liquid, and below it, a small wooden bowl with minced garlic; below the tray, a white bowl full of red ketchup; to the bottom left of the tray, a glass jar with a beige powder and its lid open; at the left center, a small wooden bowl containing yellow mustard; and a white bowl with a small amount of clear liquid. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of the Huli Huli Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, from the sweetness of brown sugar to the umami-rich soy sauce and the tangy brightness of rice vinegar. Together, these ingredients come together to create a marinade that’s both complex and easy to assemble, making the cooking process a true joy.

Brown sugar: Adds the perfect caramelized sweetness to balance the soy sauce’s saltiness.
Ketchup: Provides a subtle tang and a lovely base that helps thicken the sauce during grilling.
Soy sauce (preferably reduced sodium): Brings deep, savory umami flavor essential for authentic Huli Huli taste.
Chicken broth: Keeps the marinade moist and enhances richness without overpowering.
Fresh ginger root (minced): Infuses a warm, zesty spice that awakens the palate.
Garlic (minced): Delivers aromatic depth that complements the sweetness and saltiness perfectly.
Rice vinegar: Adds a bright, acidic note that balances richness and tenderizes the chicken.
Sesame oil: Imparts a nutty fragrance and flavor that rounds out the marinade beautifully.
Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, they soak up the marinade well and grill to a perfect char.
Optional garnish (green onions, pineapple slices): Adds fresh color and a pop of contrasting flavor.

How to Make Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by whisking together brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, and chicken broth in a medium bowl. Then add minced ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. This simple yet vibrant mixture is the very soul of Huli Huli Chicken Recipe, creating that sweet, tangy, and slightly smoky flavor profile that is so crave-worthy. Reserve one cup of this marinade to baste the chicken later; it’s the secret to that sticky, glossy finish.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Next, pour the remaining marinade into a large freezer bag with your chicken thighs. Close the bag and gently massage it to coat each piece thoroughly. The magic? Letting the chicken soak up all those flavors for at least 8 hours or overnight in the fridge. This step is crucial because it ensures each bite will be bursting with that irresistible Huli Huli charm.

Step 3: Grill Your Chicken to Perfection

When you’re ready to cook, start by lightly oiling your grill to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade, disposing of the marinade it was soaked in (the reserved one is for basting). Place the chicken on the grill, cooking each side for about 3 minutes before brushing on the reserved marinade. Repeat this flip-and-baste routine until the chicken is cooked through, about 10 minutes total depending on your grill’s heat. Make sure to cook it until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees to enjoy juicy, safe-to-eat chicken that’s charred just right.

How to Serve Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Raw chicken pieces with a light pink color and some yellow fat are spread evenly on a black grill. A woman's hand holds a wooden brush with brown bristles, spreading a shiny, dark brown sauce over one piece of chicken near the center. The grill bars are horizontal and show some heat marks. The background is out of focus but suggests outdoor cooking. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation and add fresh bursts of flavor, sprinkle sliced green onions over the hot chicken just before serving. Pineapple slices work wonderfully too, offering a juicy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smoky glaze. These simple garnishes add not only color but also textural contrast, making each bite exciting and visually appealing.

Side Dishes

Classic Hawaiian sides like sticky rice or coconut rice complement the Huli Huli Chicken Recipe perfectly, soaking up every last drop of that luscious sauce. For a lighter option, grilled vegetables or a crisp cabbage slaw provide a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the chicken. Whatever you choose, sides that carry a tropical or fresh vibe work best to keep the meal harmonious.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling adventurous? Serve your Huli Huli Chicken atop a bed of quinoa with mango salsa or wrap the grilled chicken in warm tortillas for a Hawaiian-inspired taco night. You might even dice leftovers and toss them into a fresh salad with a tangy dressing for a quick lunch the next day. This dish’s versatility means you can get creative while still enjoying that unmistakable Huli Huli flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Huli Huli Chicken Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making for an even tastier meal the next day. Just be sure to store it separately from fresh garnishes to keep everything crisp and vibrant.

Freezing

If you want to extend the life of your chicken, freeze cooked pieces in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. When freezing, try to keep the chicken and sauce together so the flavors remain well integrated. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator to preserve texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain juiciness without drying out the chicken. A quick 10-minute bake at 350 degrees or a light sautée with a splash of water or broth helps to revive the lovely glaze and keep it mouth-wateringly tender.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While chicken breasts can be used, thighs are preferred for Huli Huli Chicken Recipe because they stay juicier and absorb marinade better. If you use breasts, be careful not to overcook to avoid dryness.

Do I need to baste the chicken while grilling?

Basting with the reserved marinade adds extra layers of flavor and helps create that beautiful glossy finish that Huli Huli Chicken is known for. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in taste and presentation.

Is it necessary to marinate overnight?

Marinating for at least 8 hours is ideal, as it allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. However, if you’re short on time, a minimum of 2-3 hours can still yield delicious results.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Absolutely! This recipe works well baked in the oven or cooked on a grill pan. The key is to keep cooking times consistent and baste frequently to replicate that signature glaze.

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

If rice vinegar isn’t available, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. Just use a little less initially, as different vinegars have varying strengths.

Final Thoughts

Whipping up this Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is like inviting a little bit of the islands right into your kitchen. It’s flavorful, fuss-free, and always a crowd-pleaser—whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving something special for dinner. Give it a try, and you’ll soon understand why this dish holds such a beloved place in so many hearts. Happy grilling!

Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need