Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken)

If you’ve ever dreamed of bringing the warm breeze, smoky grills, and sweet tropical flavors of Hawaii straight to your backyard, Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken) is exactly the recipe you need. This iconic island dish is famous for its irresistible balance of sweet pineapple, savory soy sauce, caramelized brown sugar, and smoky char from the grill. Every bite is juicy, sticky, tangy, and deeply flavorful — the kind of meal that instantly feels like summer.

Whether you’re planning a family dinner, hosting a cookout, or simply craving something different from your usual grilled chicken routine, Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken) delivers big flavor with surprisingly simple ingredients. It’s approachable enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. Even better? The marinade does most of the heavy lifting, transforming everyday chicken into something unforgettable.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn everything about making authentic Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken) at home — including its history, flavor profile, cooking tips, step-by-step instructions, serving ideas, storage tips, and helpful variations. By the time you finish reading, you’ll be ready to fire up the grill and create a tropical feast right in your own kitchen.

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What is Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken)?

Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken) is a classic Hawaiian barbecue dish that originated in the 1950s. The word “huli” means “to turn” in Hawaiian. Traditionally, whole chickens were cooked between two grates over open coals and repeatedly turned while being basted with a sweet-savory glaze.

As the chicken cooked, the sugars caramelized, the sauce thickened, and the outside developed a sticky, smoky crust while the inside stayed tender and juicy. Vendors often served it roadside or at fundraisers, and the mouthwatering aroma would draw crowds from blocks away.

Over time, the dish evolved from whole chickens to easier cuts like thighs and breasts, making Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken) perfect for home cooks. Today, it remains one of Hawaii’s most beloved comfort foods and a staple at luaus, beach parties, and family gatherings.

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Why You’ll Love This Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken)

There are dozens of grilled chicken recipes out there, but few can compete with the bold tropical flavors of Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken). Here’s why this recipe stands out:

Incredible Flavor Balance

The marinade blends sweet pineapple juice, salty soy sauce, rich brown sugar, tangy vinegar, aromatic garlic, and fresh ginger. The result is a perfect sweet-savory harmony.

Juicy, Tender Texture

The natural enzymes in pineapple juice gently tenderize the chicken, keeping it moist and succulent.

Easy Preparation

Mix, marinate, grill — that’s it. Minimal effort, maximum flavor.

Perfect for Any Occasion

From weeknight dinners to summer barbecues and meal prep lunches, Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken) fits every setting.

Crowd-Pleaser

Kids love the sweetness. Adults love the smoky complexity. Everyone asks for seconds.

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Ingredients for Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken)

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious tropical chicken at home:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

• 1 cup pineapple juice

• 1/2 cup soy sauce

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup ketchup

• 1/4 cup rice vinegar

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)

• Cooked white rice, for serving

• Grilled pineapple slices (optional)

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How to Make Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken)

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper. The aroma alone will make your mouth water.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken and reserve the rest for basting. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high. Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill

Remove chicken from marinade and discard used liquid. Grill for 6–7 minutes per side, basting with reserved marinade. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes. Slice and serve over rice. Garnish with green onions and grilled pineapple.

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Flavor Profile of Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken)

The magic of Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken) lies in its flavor complexity:

• Sweet from pineapple and brown sugar

• Salty from soy sauce

• Tangy from vinegar

• Savory from garlic and ginger

• Smoky from grilling

• Sticky caramelization from sugars

Every bite delivers multiple layers of flavor at once, making it endlessly satisfying.

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Pro Tips for the Best Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken)

Marinate Overnight

Longer marination deepens flavor and improves tenderness.

Choose Thighs for Juiciness

Thighs stay moist and flavorful even with high heat.

Use Reserved Marinade Only

Never baste with used marinade to avoid contamination.

Grill Pineapple

Grilling caramelizes natural sugars and enhances sweetness.

Don’t Overcook

Use a thermometer to keep the chicken perfectly juicy.

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Serving Ideas

Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken) pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed jasmine rice

• Coconut rice

• Hawaiian mac salad

• Coleslaw

• Grilled vegetables

• Fresh mango salsa

• Teriyaki noodles

• Sweet rolls

Create a full Hawaiian-inspired plate with rice, grilled pineapple, and a crisp salad.

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Variations of Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken)

Oven-Baked Version

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, then broil.

Slow Cooker

Cook on low 4–5 hours, then broil for caramelization.

Skewers

Thread onto skewers with pineapple chunks and peppers.

Spicy Twist

Add sriracha or red pepper flakes.

Low Sugar

Swap brown sugar for honey or a sugar substitute.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great things about Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken) is how well it keeps.

Store

Refrigerate up to 4 days.

Freeze

Freeze cooked chicken up to 3 months.

Reheat

Warm gently to keep moisture intact.

Meal Prep

Slice and pack with rice for easy lunches.

Print

Nutrition Information (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal

• Protein: 32g

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Sugar: 20g

• Fat: 9g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pineapple juice?

Yes — just ensure it’s 100% juice without added sugar.

Can I cook indoors?

Absolutely. Use a grill pan or bake and broil.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but increase cook time.

Is it very sweet?

It’s balanced sweet-savory, not dessert sweet.

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Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 1 hour (or overnight)
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4

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The Cultural Charm Behind Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken)

Part of what makes Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken) special is its connection to Hawaiian community traditions. It’s not just food — it’s an experience. From beachside grills to family reunions, this dish brings people together. The smell of sweet smoke drifting through the air instantly signals celebration, relaxation, and togetherness.

Cooking this recipe at home recreates that feeling. It’s more than dinner — it’s a mini vacation on a plate.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress, Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken) should be at the top of your list. It combines simple pantry ingredients with bold tropical flavor, transforming everyday chicken into something extraordinary. The sweet pineapple glaze, smoky grill marks, and juicy texture create a meal that tastes like it came straight from a Hawaiian luau.

Whether you’re grilling for friends, feeding your family, or meal prepping for the week, this dish never disappoints. Fire up the grill, baste generously, and let those caramelized flavors work their magic. After one bite, you’ll understand why Huli Huli Chicken (Hawaiian Grilled Pineapple Chicken) has remained a beloved island favorite for generations.