Description
Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is a classic Hawaiian dish featuring tender chicken marinated in a sweet and savory pineapple-soy sauce, then grilled to caramelized perfection with a smoky glaze.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on preferred)
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening glaze)
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening glaze)
- Fresh pineapple slices (optional, for grilling)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the marinade for basting. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken in a large resealable bag or dish. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat grill to medium heat (about 375°F). Lightly oil the grates.
- Remove chicken from marinade and discard used marinade. Place chicken on the grill skin-side down.
- Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, turning occasionally (“huli” means turn), and baste frequently with the reserved marinade.
- Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is caramelized and slightly charred.
- If desired, grill pineapple slices for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized.
- Optional: For thicker glaze, simmer reserved marinade in a small saucepan. Mix cornstarch with water and stir into sauce; cook until thickened.
- Remove chicken from grill, let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with green onions, and serve warm.
Notes
- Chicken thighs remain juicier on the grill, but breasts may also be used.
- For oven method, bake at 400°F for 35-45 minutes, basting occasionally.
- Do not use marinade that touched raw chicken unless boiled thoroughly.
- Pairs well with steamed rice and macaroni salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 4 hours marinating)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian