Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli: 4 Ingredient Marinade

Name: Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli: 4 Ingredient Marinade
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup pineapple juice; ½ cup soy sauce; ¼ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup ketchup; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish)

by Fenna Saul

August 13, 2025

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Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken has been my absolute go-to for sunny afternoons and impromptu gatherings ever since I first tasted it at a local luau. The aroma alone – that sweet, savory, smoky perfection – instantly transports me back to the islands. I remember one summer day, trying to recreate that magic in my own backyard, and after a few tries, I finally nailed this incredibly easy Huli Huli chicken recipe. It’s amazing how simple ingredients come together to create such a vibrant, tropical flavor profile. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Juicy Huli Huli Recipe

This Juicy Huli Huli recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

Incredible Sweet and savory Huli Huli flavor that will transport you to the islands.
Super quick prep time means you can enjoy Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken any night of the week.
It’s a healthier option using lean chicken thighs and a balanced marinade.
Budget-friendly ingredients make this a fantastic meal for families.
The irresistible Sweet and savory Huli Huli taste is always a crowd-pleaser.
It’s a simple way to bring a taste of paradise to your table with minimal fuss.
Perfect for grilling season, making it an ideal Summertime Hawaiian Huli Huli dish.

Ingredients for Authentic Huli Huli Chicken

Gathering these simple items is the first step in creating a fantastic Huli Huli marinade recipe. The combination of sweet and tangy components is key to that signature flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need for this Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli:

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs – these stay nice and juicy
1 cup pineapple juice – provides essential sweetness and tenderizing enzymes
½ cup soy sauce – for that salty, umami depth
¼ cup brown sugar – adds caramel notes and helps with a beautiful glaze
¼ cup ketchup – contributes tanginess and body to the marinade
2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic is a must for vibrant flavor
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated – adds a warm, spicy kick that’s characteristic
1 tablespoon rice vinegar – brightens up all the flavors
½ teaspoon black pepper – for a hint of spice
2 green onions, chopped – for a fresh garnish
Sesame seeds – adds a nutty crunch and visual appeal

How to Make Juicy Huli Huli Chicken

Get ready to experience the taste of the islands right in your backyard with this easy guide to making Juicy Huli Huli chicken. This method ensures tender, flavorful results every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Huli Huli Marinade

First, let’s whip up that incredible Huli Huli marinade recipe. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 cup pineapple juice, ½ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup brown sugar, and ¼ cup ketchup. Then, stir in the 2 cloves garlic, minced, and 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated. A dash of ½ teaspoon black pepper and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar complete this mixture, setting the stage for that amazing Huli Huli chicken flavor profile. This marinade is the heart of the dish, infusing the chicken with a delightful sweet, savory, and tangy essence.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Now for the magic of marination! Place your 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs into a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For truly exceptional flavor and that perfect Marinated chicken Hawaiian style, I highly recommend marinating it overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy chicken.

Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli: 4 Ingredient Marinade - Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli - additional detail

Step 3: Grill the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Fire up the grill! Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat and make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, reserving about half a cup of the liquid for basting. Place the marinated chicken on the hot grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side. As it cooks, you’ll get that wonderful smoky aroma. Baste the chicken with the reserved marinade during the last few minutes of grilling, which helps build a delicious glaze. This basting step is crucial for that signature Grilled Hawaiian Huli Huli look and taste. Continue grilling until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the Grilled Hawaiian Huli Huli rest for 5 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices, ensuring you achieve that perfectly Juicy Huli Huli.

Pro Tips for the Best Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli

Want to elevate your Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference:

For the most tender chicken, marinate it overnight. The pineapple juice and soy sauce work wonders to tenderize the meat.
Don’t overcrowd the grill. Give each piece of chicken space to ensure even cooking and a beautiful char.
Keep a close eye on the grill, especially when basting with the sugary marinade, as it can burn quickly.

What’s the secret to perfect Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli?

The real secret to that perfect, tender, and flavorful Best Huli Huli chicken lies in the marinade’s pineapple juice, which acts as a natural tenderizer. Also, don’t overcook it; a meat thermometer is your best friend here! For more information on safe internal temperatures for poultry, you can check out resources from the USDA.

Can I make Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. The marinade not only flavors the chicken but also helps preserve it, making it perfect for meal prep and ensuring it stays moist and delicious. For more meal prep tips, check out these recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken?

A common pitfall is letting the sugary marinade burn on the grill. To prevent this, stop basting a few minutes before the chicken is fully cooked. Also, ensure your grill grates are clean and oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking. Proper grill maintenance is key to successful outdoor cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli

Once your Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken is off the grill and resting, you’re probably wondering how to best enjoy it. This Polynesian grilled chicken is incredibly versatile! I love serving it alongside fluffy white rice or coconut rice to soak up any extra marinade. A fresh, crisp Hawaiian-style macaroni salad or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also makes for a perfect, refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet, and savory chicken. It’s the ultimate summertime meal that brings everyone together. For other great side dishes, consider our crispy roasted cauliflower.

Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli: 4 Ingredient Marinade - Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli

Here are the approximate nutritional values per serving for this delicious Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli:

Calories: 350 kcal
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, you can explore resources on weight loss recipes.

How to Store and Reheat Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli

Even after the last bite of your Summertime Hawaiian Huli Huli feast, you can still enjoy this delicious dish. Once the chicken has cooled down completely, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. Reheating is super simple too! You can gently warm it in the microwave, on the stovetop over low heat, or even briefly on the grill to recapture that smoky essence. If you’re looking for other make-ahead meals, check out our turkey meatloaf recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli

What is Huli Huli chicken?

What is Huli Huli chicken? It’s a classic Hawaiian dish known for its incredibly tender and flavorful meat, achieved through a unique sweet and savory marinade and a traditional grilling method. The name “huli huli” actually means “turn turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the constant turning of the chicken on the rotisserie or grill to ensure even cooking and a beautiful glaze.

Why is Huli Huli chicken popular?

Why is Huli Huli chicken popular? It’s popular because of its irresistible flavor profile – a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes with a hint of smokiness from the grill. It’s also incredibly moist and tender, making it a crowd-pleaser for picnics, parties, and family dinners. It truly captures the essence of Hawaiian BBQ and tropical flavors, making it a beloved dish worldwide. For more popular recipes, visit our recipes page.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli?

You absolutely can use chicken breasts, but be mindful that they tend to dry out more easily than thighs. If you opt for breasts, I recommend marinating them for a shorter period, perhaps just 30 minutes to an hour, and watching them very closely on the grill to avoid overcooking. The thighs are generally preferred for achieving that signature Juicy Huli Huli texture.

What sides pair well with Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli?

This Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken pairs wonderfully with classic island sides! Fluffy white rice or coconut rice is a must for soaking up the delicious marinade. A fresh, crunchy coleslaw or a side of grilled pineapple also complements the sweet and savory flavors beautifully. For something a bit more substantial, consider a Hawaiian macaroni salad or some roasted sweet potatoes. You might also enjoy our boat dip rotel ranch dip as a party appetizer.

Variations of Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli You Can Try

While this Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with it! Here are a few ways you can switch things up to suit your tastes or dietary needs, all starting with a delicious Tropical chicken marinade recipe.

Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, simply swap the soy sauce for an equal amount of gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. The flavor profile remains remarkably similar, ensuring you still get that authentic taste.
Oven-Baked Aloha: No grill? No problem! You can bake this chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You might miss a little smokiness, but it’s still incredibly tasty.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha to your marinade. This adds a wonderful warmth that balances the sweetness, creating a complex flavor profile that’s truly addictive.
Different Cuts: While thighs are my favorite for juiciness, you can adapt this Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken recipe for chicken breasts or even wings. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through without drying out.