Description
Authentic Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is a sweet, smoky, and sticky grilled chicken dish that is perfect for warm weather gatherings, offering a taste reminiscent of Hawaiian BBQ.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (Provides salty backbone)
- 1/2 cup ketchup (For sweetness, tang, and color)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (For caramel finish)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (For tropical flavor and tenderizing)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (To brighten the marinade)
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced (For flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (For flavor)
- to taste optional hot sauce (For a kick)
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces chicken thighs (Preferred cut for juiciness)
Instructions
Marinade Preparation
- Mix soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a bowl until sugar mostly dissolves. Adjust taste with vinegar or brown sugar as needed.
- Split the marinade in half – use one half for marinating the chicken and reserve the other half for basting.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Grilling Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Place the marinated chicken on the grill, close the lid, and let it cook for a few minutes before flipping.
- Start basting with the reserved marinade once the chicken has color. Continue to flip and baste every few minutes until cooked through: thighs to 175-185°F, breasts to 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For indoor cooking, bake at 425°F on a foil-lined sheet pan and finish with broil to achieve a sticky glaze. Baste with reserved marinade only at the end to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: Hawaiian