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This Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken with sweet pineapple glaze offers a vibrant mix of flavors, combining juicy grilled chicken with a sticky-sweet glaze and caramelized pineapple slices. Every summer BBQ or family dinner instantly feels like a tropical getaway whenever I bring out this dish.
I first made this recipe for a luau-themed party at home and it vanished before I could get seconds. Now my friends ask for it whenever we light up the grill.
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken thighs or breasts: this is the most tender cut so pick a fresh pack without excess liquid
- Teriyaki sauce: rely on a high-quality store brand or homemade for a deeper flavor
- Pineapple juice: adds signature sweetness look for 100 percent juice without added sugar
- Soy sauce: gives classic umami boost try to use low sodium if possible
- Brown sugar: brings richness and helps caramelize the glaze pick soft fresh sugar for easy mixing
- Garlic: fresh cloves will pack more punch than the pre-minced jars
- Fresh ginger: grated by hand truly elevates the brightness
- Sesame oil: gives toasted depth choose toasted sesame for more aroma
- Fresh pineapple: use a heavy one with golden skin for max juiciness
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions: optional they add texture and visual flair
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Marinade:
- Whisk teriyaki sauce pineapple juice soy sauce brown sugar garlic ginger and sesame oil together in a large bowl until the sugar dissolves completely and everything is well incorporated
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place chicken in a glass container or zip bag then pour marinade over the top Ensure every piece is coated well Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight for deepest flavor
- Heat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat Allow grates to heat evenly this helps prevent sticking
- Grill the Chicken:
- Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess Reserve remaining marinade in a clean bowl for basting Place chicken onto hot grill Cook for six to seven minutes per side brushing often with reserved marinade for a shiny glaze Turn only once to keep the chicken moist
- Grill the Pineapple:
- While chicken cooks set pineapple rings on the grill Direct heat for two to three minutes each side brings out the sugars Watch for golden grill marks and a touch of caramelization
- Finish and Serve:
- Arrange chicken on a serving plate and top with grilled pineapple rings Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions if you love a little crunch
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The fresh pineapple in this meal always reminds me of vacations on the coast A juicy slice atop the smoky chicken instantly brings back memories of backyard parties with my cousins and sticky fingers from sneaking that golden glaze
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to three days For meal prep portion chicken and pineapple in single-serving containers and refrigerate If you want to freeze cooked chicken do so without the pineapple for best texture
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Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken thighs give the juiciest result but breasts work especially if pounded evenly If you need a gluten free option check your soy sauce use tamari or coconut aminos Canned pineapple can be substituted for fresh in a pinch but always rinse to remove excess sugar
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chicken over fluffy jasmine rice or tuck slices into Hawaiian rolls for sandwiches I love adding a quick cabbage slaw with lime for crunch or pairing with grilled corn in summer
Huli Huli Chicken Backstory
Huli means turn in Hawaiian a nod to flipping the chicken often on the grill This classic island street food is beloved for backyard gatherings It is a recipe created on the islands in the 1950s and it’s been a family gathering favorite ever since
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is Huli Huli chicken?
Huli Huli chicken is a Hawaiian specialty featuring juicy, marinated chicken grilled over open flames, commonly basted with a sweet-savory sauce made from soy, pineapple juice, and aromatics.
- → How long should the chicken marinate?
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. Overnight marination enhances the depth of flavor.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, both boneless skinless chicken thighs and breasts work well. Adjust grilling time to avoid drying out the breasts.
- → How do I get perfect grill marks on pineapple?
Grill pineapple slices on preheated grates for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing gently to achieve defined grill marks.
- → Is it necessary to baste the chicken while grilling?
Basting with the reserved marinade helps keep the chicken moist and builds a deep, caramelized glaze on the surface.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serve with steamed rice, fresh vegetables, or even a light salad to complement the bright flavors of the chicken and pineapple.