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This juicy Huli Huli Chicken recipe transforms boneless chicken thighs into a sweet-tangy Hawaiian delight. The marination process infuses the meat with a teriyaki-like sauce that creates an irresistible caramelized glaze when grilled alongside fresh pineapple.
I first made this recipe during a summer cookout when searching for something beyond the usual barbecue fare. The combination of sticky glaze and juicy chicken had everyone asking for seconds and thirds before the night was over.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Provide the perfect tender texture and absorb the marinade beautifully
- Light brown sugar: Creates that signature caramelization and balanced sweetness
- Ketchup: Forms the base of the sauce and adds a familiar tangy flavor
- Light soy sauce: Delivers essential umami depth without overwhelming saltiness
- Pineapple juice: Naturally tenderizes the meat while adding sweet tropical notes
- Ginger paste: Infuses the sauce with warmth and subtle spice
- Garlic paste: Creates another layer of savory flavor that complements the sweetness
- Apple cider vinegar: Balances the sauce with necessary acidity
- Cumin: Adds an earthy undertone that enhances the complexity
- Black pepper: Provides subtle heat that builds with each bite
- Paprika: Contributes beautiful color and smoky notes
- Pineapple rings: Caramelize beautifully on the grill for the perfect sweet side
- Green onions: Add fresh brightness as a finishing touch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Rinse chicken thighs thoroughly under cold water and pat completely dry with paper towels. This ensures the marinade adheres properly and helps achieve better caramelization during grilling.
- Create the Marinade:
- Combine brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, pineapple juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, apple cider vinegar, cumin, black pepper, and paprika in a large bowl. Whisk thoroughly until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture looks glossy and uniform. Reserve half a cup of this mixture for serving later.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Submerge chicken thighs completely in the remaining marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight. The longer marination allows the acids to tenderize and the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
- Prepare the Grill:
- Heat your grill to medium high heat around 400°F. Clean the grates thoroughly and lightly brush with oil to prevent sticking. Allow the grill to fully preheat before cooking for optimal caramelization.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Place marinated chicken on heated grill, allowing excess marinade to drip off first. Cook undisturbed for 10 minutes to develop grill marks and caramelization. Flip once and continue cooking another 10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Grill the Pineapple:
- When chicken is halfway done, add pineapple rings to the grill. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden with visible grill marks. The natural sugars will caramelize beautifully.
- Finish with Reserved Sauce:
- Brush the reserved marinade over the finished chicken. For extra thickness, either briefly broil the sauced chicken or heat the reserved sauce in a small saucepan until slightly reduced before brushing over the chicken.
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My favorite part of this recipe is watching the sauce caramelize on the grill. The first time I made this for my family, my usually picky nephew asked for thirds and proclaimed it better than any restaurant chicken. Now it has become our signature summer dish that everyone requests.
Storage Solutions
The beauty of Huli Huli Chicken lies in its versatility even after cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight making it perfect for meal prep. If you need to store it longer, freeze portions in freezer safe containers for up to one month. Just be sure not to refreeze if your original chicken was previously frozen.
Serving Suggestions
Huli Huli Chicken creates a stunning presentation when served as a complete Hawaiian plate lunch. Arrange the glazed chicken and grilled pineapple over a bed of steamed white rice. Add a scoop of traditional Hawaiian macaroni salad on the side for authenticity. For a lighter option, serve with a simple cabbage slaw dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil. The chicken also makes incredible sliders when shredded and piled onto Hawaiian sweet rolls with a bit of extra sauce.
Cultural Context
Huli Huli Chicken has deep roots in Hawaiian cuisine dating back to 1955 when Ernest Morgado first created it for a farmers meeting. The name comes from the Hawaiian word for turn turn referencing how the chicken was traditionally rotated over kiawe wood fires. While originally made with whole chickens on a spit, this modernized version maintains the authentic flavors while being accessible for home cooks. The combination of Asian and tropical influences perfectly represents the multicultural nature of Hawaiian cooking.
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Ingredient Substitutions
This adaptable recipe welcomes thoughtful substitutions without losing its character. Chicken breasts can replace thighs for a leaner option though cooking time will need adjustment. Fresh pineapple juice can substitute canned for brighter flavor. Coconut aminos make an excellent gluten free alternative to soy sauce. In place of brown sugar, honey provides natural sweetness with subtle floral notes. For a more authentic Hawaiian flavor profile, consider adding a tablespoon of unsweetened coconut cream to the marinade.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of chicken works best for this dish?
Boneless skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe, but any cut of chicken can be used as long as cooking times are adjusted for larger or bone-in pieces.
- → Can the marinade be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, the marinade can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until needed.
- → How can I thicken the reserved marinade for serving?
Heat the reserved marinade in a small saucepan on the stovetop until it thickens slightly, or broil the brushed chicken for a couple of minutes.
- → What side dishes pair well with Huli Huli Chicken?
Huli Huli Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing tropical salad.
- → Can I cook Huli Huli Chicken without a grill?
Yes, the chicken can be baked in the oven or cooked on a stovetop grill pan, though grilling is preferred for the smoky flavor.