Description

This Huli Huli Chicken is packed with tropical flavor and grilled to perfection. A sweet and savory marinade made from pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic gives this chicken a deeply caramelized glaze you can’t resist. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer cookout or just craving something bold and juicy, this dish brings island vibes right to your backyard. It’s easy to prep ahead and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying delicious leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup pineapple juice (unsweetened)

½ cup soy sauce

½ cup brown sugar

¼ cup ketchup

2 tbsp rice vinegar

2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

2 tbsp garlic, minced

1 tbsp sesame oil (optional)

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)

3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks

1 tbsp neutral oil (for grilling)

Green onions, for garnish

Sesame seeds, for garnish

Grilled pineapple rings (optional)

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Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and Worcestershire sauce.
Add chicken to a zip-top bag or bowl and pour in the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Preheat grill to medium heat. Oil the grates well.
Remove chicken from marinade. Reserve 1 cup of marinade and boil in a saucepan to reduce into a glaze.
Grill chicken skin-side down for 5–6 minutes until charred, then move to cooler side of grill.
Continue grilling for 25–30 minutes, basting with glaze every few minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Let rest 5–10 minutes. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and serve with grilled pineapple.

Notes

Use low-sodium soy sauce if desired to control saltiness.

Make extra glaze to drizzle over rice or veggies.

Let chicken come to room temperature before grilling for even cooking.

A two-zone grill setup prevents burning the glaze.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilled
Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (with skin)
Calories: 390