Description
Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is a classic Hawaiian BBQ dish featuring juicy, marinated chicken thighs or drumsticks grilled to perfection with a sweet and tangy sauce made from soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and a touch of ginger and garlic. This recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken with a beautifully charred exterior, perfect for summer grilling or a tropical-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 1/2 to 3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
Marinade
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Garnish (optional)
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Set aside 1/2 cup of the marinade for basting later. Place the chicken pieces in a large zip-top bag or bowl, pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, seal the bag or cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors fully develop.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium heat, ensuring it’s hot enough for cooking the chicken through while allowing the sauce to glaze the chicken without burning.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook covered. Turn the pieces occasionally and baste them with the reserved marinade every few minutes. Grill for 30 to 35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is nicely charred and caramelized.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juices. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired, then serve hot with your preferred sides.
Notes
- For a smoky flavor, cook over charcoal instead of gas.
- If using boneless chicken pieces, reduce grilling time to 15–20 minutes to avoid drying out the meat.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, grilled pineapple slices, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus at least 4 hours marinating)
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
