Huli Huli Chicken Recipe – Juicy Hawaiian Grilled Chicken Thighs

There’s something magical about a perfectly grilled chicken that’s both smoky and sweet. This Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is exactly that—a flavor-packed Hawaiian-inspired dish that’s become one of my family’s summer go-to meals.

It’s bold, juicy, slightly caramelized, and completely irresistible. Whether you’re planning a cookout, prepping for a weeknight dinner, or just craving something tropical, this recipe will hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

• The marinade is packed with bold island-inspired flavors
• Chicken thighs stay juicy and grill up perfectly
• Works great for family meals or backyard BBQs
• Easy to prep with pantry staples
• Pairs well with grilled pineapple, rice, or Hawaiian sides

Ingredients for Huli Huli Chicken

• 4–5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup ketchup
• ½ cup light soy sauce
• ½ cup canned pineapple juice
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste or minced fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste or minced garlic
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon coarse black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
• Pineapple rings (from 1 pineapple or 1 drained can)
• ½ cup sliced green onions for garnish

Tip: Don’t skip the pineapple juice—it adds signature sweetness and helps tenderize the chicken.

How to Make Huli Huli Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Marinade

1. In a large bowl or gallon-size Ziploc bag, mix together brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, pineapple juice, ginger, garlic, vinegar, cumin, pepper, and paprika.
2. Reserve ½ cup of the marinade and set it aside for brushing later.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, coating well.
4. Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken and Pineapple

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
2. Lightly brush the grill grates with oil.
3. Place chicken directly on the grill. Cook for 8–10 minutes without moving.
4. Flip and continue grilling for another 8–10 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 165°F.
5. In the last few minutes, brush the reserved marinade over the chicken.
6. Grill pineapple rings alongside the chicken until golden and slightly charred.

Optional: Broil chicken in the oven or simmer reserved sauce until thickened, then brush over chicken for an extra sticky glaze.

What to Serve with Huli Huli Chicken

• Steamed jasmine or coconut rice
• Grilled or roasted vegetables (asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers)
• Hawaiian macaroni salad
• Toasted Hawaiian rolls or sliders
• Fresh green salad with a citrus dressing

Make It Your Way

• Swap the meat: Use chicken breasts or drumsticks instead of thighs
• No grill?: Use a grill pan, cast-iron skillet, or bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes
• Amp up the heat: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade
• Low-sugar version: Use low-sugar ketchup and reduce the brown sugar slightly

Huli Huli Chicken Recipe FAQs

What is Huli Huli Chicken?
It’s a Hawaiian-style grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and savory pineapple-soy sauce blend.

Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Marinate overnight and grill the next day. You can also cook and reheat—it stays juicy!

Is it spicy?
Not at all. It’s more sweet and savory, but you can adjust the heat to your taste.

Why is it called “Huli Huli”?
“Huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian—it refers to the traditional rotisserie method where the chicken is turned over the fire.

What’s the difference between teriyaki and Huli Huli?
Teriyaki is sweeter and thicker. Huli Huli sauce includes ketchup and pineapple juice for a tangier, tropical twist.

Storage and Leftovers

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freeze: Freeze grilled chicken (without pineapple) for up to 2 months
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of water or extra marinade if dry

Reader Favorites to Pair with This Dish

• Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken – similar island-inspired flavors
• Jamaican Jerk Chicken – for a spicy, smoky contrast
• Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers – another grilled chicken favorite

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason this Huli Huli Chicken Recipe has become one of my family’s grilling staples. It’s simple, it’s juicy, and it tastes like a Hawaiian vacation on a plate.

Every time we make it, my kids ask for seconds—and honestly, the grilled pineapple slices always disappear first. So don’t skip them!

If you’re looking to bring tropical flavors to your dinner table, give this recipe a try. And if you do, tag @RitzyRecipes on Pinterest so I can see your delicious creations!

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