The perfect fusion of sweet, savory, and smoky, Huli Huli Chicken is a classic Hawaiian dish that brings big flavor with minimal effort. Marinated in a tangy, ginger-garlic soy glaze and grilled to juicy perfection, this chicken is a surefire crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Whether you’re planning a summer BBQ, hosting friends, or just want to jazz up a weeknight meal, this recipe transports your taste buds to the islands. Serve it with grilled pineapple and rice for a complete tropical experience you’ll want to make again and again.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
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1/2 cup soy sauce
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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1/3 cup ketchup
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1/4 cup chicken broth
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2 tablespoons rice vinegar
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2 tablespoons sesame oil
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1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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Pineapple rings, for grilling (optional)
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Chopped green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish
Directions:
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In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, chicken broth, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
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Reserve 1 cup of the marinade in a separate container for basting.
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Place chicken thighs in a zip-top bag or container and pour in the remaining marinade. Marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
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Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
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Remove chicken from marinade and discard used marinade.
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Grill chicken for 6–8 minutes per side, basting frequently with the reserved marinade, until fully cooked and caramelized.
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If desired, grill pineapple rings alongside the chicken for a sweet and smoky touch.
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Garnish the chicken with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 4–8 hours marinating)
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes (active)
Kcal: 310 kcal
Servings: 4 servings
Discover the Irresistible Flavor of Huli Huli Chicken
When it comes to grilled chicken recipes that impress both in flavor and presentation, Huli Huli Chicken tops the list. Originating from Hawaii, this dish has made its way across oceans and borders to become a favorite on BBQ menus and dinner tables worldwide. Whether you’re a backyard grilling enthusiast or someone looking to explore island-inspired flavors, Huli Huli Chicken delivers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky.
The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its irresistible taste, but in its simplicity. Marinate, grill, and serve, that’s all it takes to transport yourself to a Hawaiian luau. But there’s so much more to this dish than its easy preparation. In this article, we’ll explore the cultural origins of Huli Huli Chicken, the key ingredients that make it shine, expert cooking tips, and delicious ways to serve it.
What is Huli Huli Chicken?
Huli Huli means “turn turn” in Hawaiian, a fitting name for a dish traditionally cooked on a spit and turned over an open fire. Invented in the 1950s by Ernest Morgado, a Hawaiian businessman, Huli Huli Chicken was initially served at fundraising events. Morgado’s original marinade combined classic island ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, and brown sugar, creating a flavor profile that struck the perfect balance of sweet and salty.
Over the years, the recipe evolved, spreading across Hawaii and eventually the mainland U.S., where it became a staple at cookouts and food festivals. Although most modern recipes are adapted for grills and home kitchens, they maintain the essence of the original, tender, juicy chicken soaked in a flavor-packed marinade and grilled until caramelized and slightly charred.
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
One of the most compelling aspects of Huli Huli Chicken is its rich yet harmonious combination of ingredients. Here’s a closer look at the components that bring the marinade and the chicken to life:
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Soy Sauce: Provides the umami base and saltiness essential to balance the sweetness.
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Brown Sugar: Adds depth and caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
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Ketchup: An unexpected but crucial element, it brings tanginess and a rich tomato base.
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Rice Vinegar: Offers acidity to cut through the richness of the chicken and balance the sweetness.
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Sesame Oil: Infuses a nutty, toasted flavor that enhances the overall marinade.
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Fresh Ginger & Garlic: Aromatic and punchy, these two ingredients create a fresh, bold foundation.
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Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Adds a hint of heat for those who like a little kick.
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Chicken Thighs: Juicier and more flavorful than breasts, thighs hold up well on the grill and absorb the marinade deeply.
While the ingredient list is simple, each component serves a vital purpose. Together, they create a marinade that’s sweet, tangy, savory, and utterly addictive.
Tips for the Perfect Huli Huli Chicken
Although this dish is easy to prepare, a few key techniques can elevate your results from good to exceptional:
1. Marinate Long Enough
Aim for at least 4 hours of marinating time, but overnight is best. The longer the chicken soaks, the more intense the flavor. If you’re pressed for time, try vacuum-sealing the chicken with the marinade to speed up absorption.
2. Use the Right Cut
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe. They stay juicy on the grill and cook evenly. However, you can use bone-in thighs or even drumsticks, just adjust cooking times accordingly.
3. Reserve Marinade for Basting
Never reuse marinade that has come in contact with raw chicken. Always set aside a portion of the marinade for basting before marinating the chicken. This reserved sauce can be brushed on during grilling to create layers of flavor and a glossy, caramelized finish.
4. Grill Over Medium Heat
Too high, and the sugar in the marinade will burn before the chicken is fully cooked. Medium heat ensures a golden, flavorful exterior and juicy interior.
5. Add Pineapple for a Tropical Twist
Grilling fresh pineapple rings alongside the chicken adds sweetness and a juicy texture that complements the savory chicken perfectly. Plus, it’s a nod to the Hawaiian roots of this dish.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Huli Huli Chicken is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, depending on the occasion. Here are some of our favorite ideas:
1. Traditional Plate Lunch Style
Serve with steamed white rice, macaroni salad, and a side of grilled pineapple for a classic Hawaiian-style meal. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for an authentic finish.
2. Tropical Chicken Bowls
Layer rice or quinoa with sliced Huli Huli Chicken, fresh mango, cucumber, shredded carrots, and avocado. Drizzle with a light sesame-ginger dressing for a wholesome, Instagram-worthy bowl.
3. Grilled Chicken Sandwiches
Place slices of Huli Huli Chicken on toasted buns with grilled pineapple, lettuce, and a swipe of mayo or teriyaki aioli. A perfect summer sandwich option!
4. Tacos with an Island Vibe
Tuck shredded Huli Huli Chicken into warm tortillas with cabbage slaw, spicy mayo, and a squeeze of lime. Top with cilantro for a fusion taco that’s bursting with flavor.
5. Leftover Magic
Use leftovers in wraps, salads, or stir-fries. The marinated, grilled chicken adds bold flavor to even the simplest dishes.
Why Huli Huli Chicken Is a Must-Try
Huli Huli Chicken is more than just a dish, it’s a cultural experience, a story of Hawaiian hospitality, and a reminder of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, preparing a weeknight dinner, or planning a weekend gathering, this recipe offers unbeatable taste with minimal effort.
What makes it truly unique is the nostalgic, comforting balance of flavors. The marinade caramelizes into a sticky glaze, the ginger and garlic shine through each bite, and the smoky grill marks give it that irresistible char. Combined with its island heritage and ability to feed a crowd, Huli Huli Chicken deserves a place in every home cook’s rotation.
Conclusion
If you’re craving a flavorful grilled chicken recipe that’s a step above the rest, Huli Huli Chicken is a perfect choice. With its sweet and savory marinade, smoky grilled finish, and tropical origins, it offers a little escape in every bite. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it also lends itself to countless serving variations, making it a reliable go-to for any occasion.
So next time you fire up the grill, take a trip to the islands, no passport required. Your tastebuds will thank you.