Huli Huli Chicken

The ultimate backyard BBQ just got a tropical upgrade. This Huli Huli Chicken recipe is a Hawaiian classic that features juicy, marinated chicken cooked to perfection over an open flame. The signature marinade is bursting with island flavors—sweet pineapple juice, savory soy sauce, a touch of garlic, ginger, and just enough spice to wake up your palate. As it grills, the chicken caramelizes into sticky-sweet, golden perfection, kissed by char and smoke. Serve it with fluffy rice, creamy mac salad, or grilled pineapple for an island-style feast that feels like a mini vacation on your plate. Whether you’re planning a summer cookout or want to add flair to your weekly dinner rotation, this dish delivers bold flavor and crowd-pleasing satisfaction.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:
For the Marinade:

• 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 1 cup pineapple juice

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

• 1/4 cup dry sherry (or rice wine vinegar)

• 1/4 cup ketchup

• 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tsp ground ginger

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Chicken:

• 3–4 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken (thighs and drumsticks recommended)

• Vegetable oil for grilling

• Chopped green onions, sesame seeds, pineapple wedges (for garnish)

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients until sugar is fully dissolved.

2. Place chicken in a resealable bag or container and pour in marinade. Massage well. Marinate in refrigerator for 8–24 hours, turning occasionally.

3. Preheat grill to medium heat (350–400°F). Clean and lightly oil grates.

4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off (save marinade).

5. Grill chicken skin-side down for 5–7 minutes or until browned. Flip and grill another 5–7 minutes.

6. Begin basting with reserved marinade every 5–10 minutes while turning chicken. Move to cooler grill zone to finish cooking.

7. Continue grilling until internal temperature reaches 165°F (thighs/drumsticks).

8. Optionally, reduce remaining marinade in a saucepan to create a sticky glaze.

9. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and serve with pineapple wedges.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 6–8 servings

The Flavorful Origins of Huli Huli Chicken

Huli Huli Chicken is more than just a delicious grilled chicken recipe—it’s a taste of Hawaiian culture, history, and hospitality. Created in 1955 by Ernest Morgado, a businessman and philanthropist in Hawaii, this dish was originally developed for a community fundraiser. Morgado’s version featured whole chickens grilled over an open flame and basted with a tangy-sweet marinade that quickly became legendary throughout the islands. “Huli” means “to turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the method of rotating the chicken on the grill, often between two metal grates.

The unique name “Huli Huli” not only describes the cooking method but also embodies the spirit of Hawaiian gatherings—community, warmth, and shared meals. It started as a roadside favorite, often sold at fundraisers or roadside stands, and evolved into one of Hawaii’s most iconic dishes.

Why Huli Huli Chicken Is a Standout BBQ Dish

Unlike your average barbecue chicken, Huli Huli Chicken strikes a perfect balance between sweet, salty, and tangy. The marinade—typically made from soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger—infuses deep flavor into every bite. When grilled, the natural sugars caramelize, creating a glossy and sticky exterior while locking in the juicy tenderness of the meat.

What makes this recipe stand out is the layering of flavor and texture. The combination of tropical ingredients with traditional grilling techniques delivers a smoky char, a sweet-savory glaze, and a succulent, fall-off-the-bone interior. It’s a feast for the senses, making it a favorite not only in Hawaii but around the globe.

Health Benefits of the Key Ingredients

While indulgent, Huli Huli Chicken can be part of a balanced diet when prepared thoughtfully. Here are a few health benefits of its core components:

• Pineapple Juice: Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and the enzyme bromelain, which helps with digestion and inflammation.

• Ginger and Garlic: Both have powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

• Soy Sauce: While high in sodium, using low-sodium versions provides essential umami flavor without excess salt.

• Chicken Thighs: Though a bit higher in fat than breasts, thighs are rich in iron, zinc, and B vitamins, and they stay juicier on the grill.

Pairing Huli Huli Chicken with steamed rice or a salad makes for a nutritionally balanced meal.

How to Master the Marinade

The true secret to Huli Huli Chicken lies in the marinade. Here’s how to make sure you get it just right:

1. Balance the Sweet and Savory: Pineapple juice and brown sugar offer sweetness, while soy sauce and ketchup provide savory depth.

2. Layer Flavors: Fresh grated ginger and minced garlic add zing. A touch of sesame oil introduces nuttiness, while red pepper flakes bring optional heat.

3. Marinate Long Enough: For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 8 hours—ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

Don’t skip the marinade reduction step either. By simmering the leftover marinade into a thicker glaze, you ensure a final burst of flavor during grilling.

The Importance of Proper Grilling

Another element that defines Huli Huli Chicken is the grilling process. Achieving a caramelized, smoky finish without burning the chicken requires attention to heat zones.

• Use Indirect Heat: Set your grill to medium heat and create a hot and cool zone. Start searing the chicken skin-side down over the hot side, then move it to the cooler zone to finish cooking.

• Frequent Turning and Basting: “Huli” means turning, and the dish lives up to its name. Turning the chicken often and basting with marinade every 5–10 minutes ensures a sticky, lacquered finish.

• Use a Thermometer: Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for dark meat to be safe and juicy.

These techniques make a difference between a dry, overcooked bird and one bursting with juices and tropical flavor.

Perfect Pairings for a Complete Hawaiian Feast

Huli Huli Chicken shines even more when accompanied by traditional Hawaiian sides. Here are a few favorites:

• Macaroni Salad: A creamy, cool contrast to the sweet-savory chicken. Often made with elbow pasta, mayo, and a touch of vinegar.

• Steamed White Rice: Absorbs the flavorful juices and complements the umami marinade perfectly.

• Grilled Pineapple: Enhances the tropical notes of the dish and adds a refreshing, caramelized twist.

• Coconut Rice: A slightly sweeter, creamier alternative to plain rice that complements the savory chicken beautifully.

• Coleslaw or Cucumber Salad: Adds crunch and freshness to balance out the richness.

These sides transform your Huli Huli Chicken from a standalone dish into a full plate-lunch-style meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Huli Huli Chicken Variations You Can Try

While the classic recipe is a star on its own, it also lends itself well to variations:

• Spicy Huli Huli: Add sriracha, more chili flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for a fiery version.

• Honey-Glazed: Swap some of the brown sugar with honey to amplify the stickiness and sweetness.

• Boneless Options: Use boneless thighs or breasts if you’re short on time. They cook quicker and are easier to slice for sandwiches or salads.

• Oven-Baked Huli Huli: No grill? No problem. You can bake the marinated chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 45–60 minutes, basting every 15 minutes, then broil for the last 5–10 minutes for that signature char.

• Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: For a fuss-free weekday meal, you can adapt this recipe to a slow cooker and then crisp the skin under the broiler.

The adaptability of Huli Huli Chicken makes it a go-to recipe for cooks of all levels.

A Great Dish for Entertaining

Huli Huli Chicken is a dream for hosting gatherings. It’s low-effort but high-impact—just marinate in advance, fire up the grill, and start flipping. As the aroma of sweet garlic and pineapple fills the air, guests will gather around eagerly.

You can even double the batch and make sliders or tacos out of the leftovers. Serve with tropical drinks like mai tais or a pineapple spritzer, and you’ve got a backyard luau in the making. Whether it’s a summer cookout, a family dinner, or a festive occasion, Huli Huli Chicken brings people together and makes memories.

Tips for First-Time Cooks

If you’re making Huli Huli Chicken for the first time, keep these simple tips in mind:

• Don’t Skip the Oil on the Grill Grates: Prevents sticking and tearing of the skin.

• Marinate in a Glass or Plastic Container: Avoid metal containers that might react with acidic ingredients like pineapple juice.

• Watch for Flare-Ups: Sugary marinades can cause flames. Move chicken to a cooler part of the grill if flare-ups occur.

• Rest the Chicken Before Slicing: Letting it sit for 5–10 minutes after grilling ensures the juices stay locked in.

With these beginner-friendly pointers, you’ll master the dish in no time.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Huli Huli Chicken isn’t just another grilled chicken recipe—it’s a celebration of flavor, history, and island vibes. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re on vacation, even if you’re just in your backyard. The marinade is quick to assemble, the ingredients are easy to find, and the cooking process is straightforward yet deeply rewarding.

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can go traditional or put your own twist on it. You can make it spicy or keep it sweet, serve it with rice or in tacos, grill it outdoors or roast it indoors. Few recipes offer this much flavor and flexibility in such a simple package.

Conclusion

Huli Huli Chicken is a true Hawaiian treasure—deeply flavorful, beautifully charred, and easy enough for any home cook to master. From its humble origins at a farmers’ gathering to its status as a beloved island dish, it’s clear why this recipe continues to win hearts around the world. Whether you’re grilling for guests or simply craving a taste of the tropics, this dish delivers comfort, bold flavor, and a whole lot of Aloha.

Add this to your weekly menu, bring it to your next BBQ, or bookmark it for your next family celebration. One bite, and you’ll understand why this isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience.