This Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is a tropical twist on grilled chicken, marinated in a sweet and savory blend of teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar. The juicy chicken is paired with charred grilled pineapple for a smoky-sweet finish, making it an irresistible dish perfect for summer barbecues or anytime you want to bring a taste of Hawaii to your table.
Ingredients
→ Marinade
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
→ Chicken and Pineapple
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch thick circles
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
→ Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a medium bowl, combine the sesame oil , grated fresh ginger , finely chopped garlic , brown sugar , soy sauce , pineapple juice , and teriyaki sauce .
- Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves and the marinade is well blended.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours , or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F–400°F).
Step 4: Grill the Pineapple
- Place the pineapple rings on the hot grill. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side , or until they’re lightly charred and caramelized. Remove from the grill and set aside.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade that touched raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination.
- Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6–7 minutes per side , or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F .
- While grilling, brush the chicken occasionally with the reserved marinade (from before it touched raw chicken) for extra flavor.
Step 6: Assemble and Garnish
- Arrange the grilled chicken on a serving platter. Top each piece with a grilled pineapple ring.
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a pop of color and added flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Huli Huli Chicken captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine with its bold, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. The tender chicken pairs beautifully with the smoky-sweet grilled pineapple, creating a mouthwatering combination that’s sure to transport you to the islands. It’s easy to prepare, yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings or enjoy as a weeknight dinner.
Tips for Success
- Toast sesame seeds : Lightly toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until golden brown for enhanced flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients : Fresh ginger and garlic make a noticeable difference in the depth of flavor.
- Save some marinade : Reserve a small portion of the marinade before adding it to the raw chicken to use as a basting sauce while grilling.
- Alternative cooking methods : If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken and pineapple on a stovetop grill pan or under the broiler for similar results.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice to soak up the delicious juices.
- Pair with a side of roasted vegetables, grilled corn, or a fresh tropical salad for a complete meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt mixed with lime juice for a creamy contrast.
Enjoy this Tasty Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken —a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the tropics to your plate!
