Easy Hawaiian Dishes: Juicy Huli Huli Chicken for Dinner

Meet This Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a beloved tradition straight from the islands. This iconic barbecue dish is renowned for its irresistible sweet and savory glaze, a true testament to Hawaii’s rich culinary landscape. The name “Huli Huli” itself is Hawaiian for “turn, turn,” which traditionally referred to how the chicken was rotated on a spit, constantly basted with its signature sauce. Historically, this dish gained fame through roadside stands and community fundraisers, where the smoky aroma of grilling chicken mingled with the sweet scent of pineapple and soy.

While the traditional method involves slow-roasting over kiawe wood, this recipe brings that authentic, mouth-watering taste right to your home kitchen. Whether you’re firing up your backyard grill or opting for oven baking, you can recreate the magic. This dish is a harmonious blend of Polynesian, Japanese, and American culinary influences, resulting in a flavor profile that’s both comforting and uniquely exotic. It’s perfect for casual family dinners, lively gatherings, or simply bringing a sun-kissed taste of the Pacific to your table. We’ll guide you through every step to achieve that perfectly caramelized skin and tender, juicy meat that defines an exceptional Huli Huli experience.

Why Make This Easy Hawaiian Dish?

Simple Steps for Great Taste

Preparing this Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is surprisingly straightforward, despite its gourmet appeal. The key lies in its dynamic marinade, which does most of the work infusing the chicken with incredible flavor. You’ll spend minimal time on active preparation, allowing the marinade to tenderize and season the chicken before it hits the grill or oven. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something special without the fuss. The process involves basic kitchen skills, making it accessible even for novice cooks looking to expand their culinary repertoire. If you enjoy simple, flavorful meals, check out our recipe for easy honey garlic chicken.

Perfect for Your Dinner Table

This Huli Huli Chicken isn’t just easy; it’s a crowd-pleaser that fits perfectly into any dinner setting. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, planning a casual family meal, or looking for something exciting to break up your routine, this dish delivers. Its vibrant flavors and appealing golden-brown finish make it a centerpiece that’s both comforting and impressive. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, from simple rice to roasted vegetables, offering a versatile meal solution. The allure of Hawaiian cuisine comes alive with every bite, ensuring a memorable dining experience for everyone at your table.

Ingredients for Your Huli Huli Dinner

Main Chicken Components

For the best Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken, we recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks. These cuts tend to stay incredibly juicy during grilling and absorb the marinade beautifully, contributing to a richer flavor profile. Chicken breasts can also be used for a leaner option, but they might require a slightly shorter cooking time to prevent drying out. Ensure your chicken is fresh and of good quality. Patting the chicken dry before marinating helps the marinade adhere better and promotes a crispier skin when cooked. Consider piercing the chicken gently with a fork a few times to allow for deeper flavor penetration, especially if using thicker pieces.

Essential Marinade Items

The magic of Huli Huli Chicken lies in its distinctive marinade, a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy notes. You’ll need:

• Soy Sauce: The savory backbone. Consider low-sodium options.
• Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with caramelization.
• Ketchup: Adds a tangy depth and a slight thickness.
• Pineapple Juice: Crucial for the tropical sweetness and tenderizing enzymes. Pineapple is central to many Hawaiian flavors.
• Ginger and Garlic: Freshly minced for aromatic complexity.
• Rice Vinegar: A touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
• Sesame Oil: For a nutty, aromatic finish.

Mixing these ingredients creates the iconic Huli Huli flavor profile that makes this dish so irresistible.

Crafting the Flavorful Huli Huli Marinade

Whisking Together Flavors

Creating the flavorful Huli Huli marinade is a simple yet vital step. In a medium-sized bowl, combine all your essential marinade items: soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, pineapple juice, minced fresh ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Whisk everything thoroughly until the brown sugar is completely dissolved and all ingredients are well incorporated. This ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout the marinade. Take a moment to taste a tiny bit of the marinade (before adding chicken, of course!) to get a sense of its incredible balance. The aroma alone will transport you to the islands. This blend of ingredients is what gives the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken its signature taste, making every bite a delight.

Sweet and Savory Balance

The hallmark of an authentic Huli Huli Chicken is its impeccable sweet and savory balance. The brown sugar and pineapple juice provide a wonderful natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating that coveted sticky glaze. This sweetness is perfectly counteracted by the umami-rich soy sauce and the tang of ketchup and rice vinegar. Fresh ginger and garlic add a pungent, aromatic warmth, elevating the overall complexity. It’s this carefully calibrated interplay of flavors that makes the marinade so addictive. Achieving this sweet and savory harmony is crucial for a truly authentic and delicious Huli Huli experience, distinguishing it from other main course recipes.

Marinating Chicken for Best Flavor Infusion

Coating Chicken Evenly

Once your flavorful Huli Huli marinade is ready, it’s time to introduce your chicken. Place the chicken pieces into a large, resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated. Gently massage the bag or turn the chicken in the dish to guarantee even distribution of the marinade. This step is crucial for achieving consistent flavor in every bite of your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken. If using a bag, press out as much air as possible before sealing. If using a dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap.

Chill for Longest Infusion

For the best possible flavor infusion, place the marinating chicken in the refrigerator. A minimum of 2-4 hours is recommended, but for truly deep, rich flavors, aim for at least 6 hours or even overnight. Marinating overnight allows the chicken to fully absorb the sweet and savory notes, resulting in an exceptionally tender and flavorful grilled chicken. Avoid marinating for more than 24 hours, especially if your marinade contains a high amount of acidic ingredients like pineapple juice, as this can break down the chicken fibers too much, leading to a mushy texture. Planning ahead for this chilling time is key to maximizing the deliciousness of your Huli Huli dinner.

Grilling Juicy Huli Huli Chicken Perfectly

Preheat Grill to Medium-High

Achieving perfectly juicy grilled chicken starts with proper grill preparation. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature between 375-400°F (190-200°C). This allows the grill grates to get hot enough for a good sear, which helps lock in the juices and creates those appealing grill marks. Clean your grill grates thoroughly with a wire brush, then lightly oil them to prevent the chicken from sticking. This initial heat management is vital for cooking your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken evenly and developing that beautiful, caramelized exterior without burning the marinade.

Cook and Baste Each Side

Once the grill is hot, place the marinated chicken on the grates, reserving some of the unused marinade for basting (never use marinade that has touched raw chicken without boiling it first). Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, turning occasionally. During the last 10-15 minutes of cooking, frequently baste the chicken with the reserved, fresh marinade. This repeated basting is what builds the signature sticky, glossy glaze of Huli Huli Chicken. The sugars in the marinade will caramelize, creating a rich, flavorful crust while keeping the interior moist and tender. For more grilling tips, visit the Grilling Wikipedia page.

Check for Doneness

Ensuring your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is cooked through is paramount for safety and taste. The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding the bone. Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cooking time will vary depending on the size and cut of your chicken pieces, as well as your grill’s temperature. While checking, make sure the juices run clear. Don’t hesitate to move chicken pieces to a cooler part of the grill if they are browning too quickly on the outside before reaching the correct internal temperature.

Cooking Huli Huli Without a Grill

Using a Grill Pan

No outdoor grill? No problem! You can still enjoy delicious Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken using a cast-iron grill pan on your stovetop. Heat the grill pan over medium-high heat until it’s very hot, lightly oiling it beforehand. Place the chicken pieces in the hot pan, ensuring not to overcrowd it, which can steam the chicken instead of searing it. Cook for about 8-10 minutes per side, turning occasionally, and basting with fresh marinade during the last few minutes. A grill pan will give you those desirable grill marks and a good sear, though the smoky flavor might be less intense than with an outdoor grill. This method is fantastic for an indoor barbecue experience.

Oven Baking Instructions

Baking is another excellent method for preparing Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken, particularly if you’re cooking for a crowd or prefer a hands-off approach. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Bake for 30-40 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. During the last 10-15 minutes, baste frequently with reserved fresh marinade to build that beautiful Huli Huli glaze. Continue baking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is nicely caramelized. This method yields incredibly tender and flavorful chicken, just like our bacon brown sugar chicken recipe.

Expert Tips for Amazing Huli Huli

Rest Chicken for Juiciness

One of the simplest yet most effective tips for ensuring juicy chicken every time is to let it rest after cooking. Once your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken reaches its target internal temperature, remove it from the grill, pan, or oven and transfer it to a cutting board or platter. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving. This resting period allows the juices within the meat to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in a more tender, succulent, and flavorful bite. Skipping this step can lead to dry chicken, as all the delicious juices would run out when you cut into it.

Adjust Sweetness to Taste

The beauty of homemade recipes is the ability to customize them to your preference. While the provided Huli Huli marinade offers a balanced sweet and savory profile, feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add an extra tablespoon or two of brown sugar or even a touch more pineapple juice to the marinade. For a less sweet version, reduce the brown sugar slightly. Remember to taste the marinade before adding the chicken and make minor adjustments. This flexibility ensures your flavorful marinade perfectly suits your palate, making your Huli Huli Chicken truly unique.

Add a Spicy Kick

For those who enjoy a little heat, adding a spicy kick to your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is a fantastic idea. You can easily incorporate some red pepper flakes, a dash of sriracha, or a finely minced fresh chili pepper (like jalapeño or serrano) into the marinade. Start with a small amount and increase to your desired level of spice. This addition creates a thrilling contrast to the inherent sweet and savory notes, adding another layer of complexity to the dish. It transforms the classic Huli Huli into an exciting, fiery rendition that’s sure to awaken your taste buds.

Serving Your Huli Huli Chicken Dinner

Garnish with Green Onions

A simple yet effective way to enhance the presentation and add a fresh element to your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken dinner is by garnishing it with thinly sliced green onions. The bright green color provides a beautiful contrast to the caramelized chicken, and the mild, crisp onion flavor offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, sweet, and savory marinade. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can also add an appealing textural crunch and nutty aroma. These small touches elevate the dish from a simple meal to a visually appealing and professionally presented culinary creation.

Pair with Coconut Rice

For a truly authentic Hawaiian meal experience, pairing your Huli Huli Chicken with coconut rice is a match made in culinary heaven. The subtle sweetness and creamy texture of the coconut rice beautifully complement the bold, sweet and savory flavors of the chicken. Other excellent side dish options include grilled pineapple slices, macaroni salad (a Hawaiian plate lunch staple), or a simple fresh green salad. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a vibrant coleslaw. The key is choosing sides that balance the richness of the chicken, making for a well-rounded and satisfying dinner recipe.

Creative Variations for Your Chicken

Try Different Protein Types

While traditionally made with chicken, the versatile Huli Huli marinade works wonderfully with other protein types. Consider marinating pork ribs or pork tenderloin for a different texture and flavor. Shrimp or firm white fish fillets can also be a delicious option, though they will require a much shorter marinating and cooking time. Even firm tofu or tempeh can be transformed into a fantastic vegetarian Huli Huli dish, absorbing the flavorful marinade beautifully. Experimenting with various proteins allows you to enjoy the beloved Huli Huli taste in new and exciting ways, similar to how our ground turkey and peppers offers a fresh take.

Add Fresh Herbs or Fruit

To further enhance and customize your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken, consider adding fresh herbs or fruit to your marinade or as a garnish. Fresh cilantro or basil can introduce an aromatic freshness. For a brighter, tangier note, a squeeze of fresh lime juice or orange zest can be added. Grilling pineapple rings alongside the chicken also adds a fantastic sweet and smoky element that complements the Huli Huli flavors perfectly. These small additions can dramatically change the profile of your dish, making each batch a unique culinary adventure.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Chicken

How to Store Properly

Properly storing leftover Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken ensures it remains fresh and delicious for future meals. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly within two hours of cooking. Stored correctly, the chicken will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Proper storage prevents spoilage and maintains the quality of your delightful Huli Huli dinner. For more recipe inspiration and storage tips, follow us on Instagram.

Ideas for Leftover Shredded Chicken

Don’t let any leftover juicy chicken go to waste! Shredded Huli Huli chicken can be repurposed into a variety of quick and tasty meals. Use it as a filling for Hawaiian-inspired tacos or quesadillas. It’s excellent mixed into a stir-fry or added to a hearty noodle soup for an extra layer of flavor. You can also toss it with some fresh greens and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad, or even use it as a topping for homemade pizza. These creative ideas ensure that your delicious Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken continues to delight your palate in diverse and exciting ways. For more creative recipe ideas, check out our Pinterest page.

Quick Prep and Cooking Times Total

See How Fast It Is

One of the many benefits of making Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is its relatively quick prep time and efficient cooking process, especially if you’ve planned for the marination in advance. The active preparation of the marinade and chicken takes minimal effort, usually less than 15 minutes. The longest part is the marination, but that’s passive time spent chilling in the fridge. Grilling or baking typically falls within a 30-40 minute window, making it perfectly suitable for a satisfying weeknight meal. This dish proves that incredible flavors don’t always require hours of work in the kitchen, offering a delicious solution for busy schedules.

Total Time: Fifty Minutes

While the marination time for your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken can extend for several hours to truly infuse flavor, the active prep and cooking are surprisingly fast. Assuming a minimum marination of 2 hours for decent flavor, and considering about 10-15 minutes of active preparation and 35-40 minutes of cooking (grilling or baking), the total hands-on time from start to finish is approximately 50 minutes. This makes Huli Huli Chicken a fantastic option when you need a flavorful, wholesome dinner recipe that doesn’t keep you tied to the kitchen for too long. Enjoy the taste of Hawaii without the long wait!