Quick Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

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Juicy, sticky, and bursting with bold island flavors, this Quick Huli Huli Chicken recipe brings a taste of Hawaii right to your dinner table. Perfectly grilled or oven-roasted, the chicken is slathered in a sweet and savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully while locking in every ounce of tenderness.

Whether you’re cooking for a weekday dinner or a backyard BBQ, this dish promises both simplicity and satisfaction. Made with pantry staples and just a few fresh ingredients, Huli Huli Chicken is your shortcut to a tropical escape in under 30 minutes.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the ideal cut for this recipe. They stay juicy during high-heat cooking and absorb the marinade like a sponge. If you prefer white meat, chicken breasts can also work—just be cautious not to overcook them.

Ingredients for the Quick Huli Huli Chicken

• Chicken Thighs: Boneless and skinless for quicker cooking and better flavor absorption.
• Pineapple Juice: The tropical base that tenderizes and sweetens the marinade.
• Soy Sauce: Adds depth and the essential salty umami kick.
• Brown Sugar: For a sticky glaze that caramelizes during grilling.
• Ketchup: Brings a mellow tang and helps thicken the sauce.
• Rice Vinegar: Balances the sweetness with gentle acidity.
• Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Essential aromatics that enhance every bite.
• Sriracha or Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for those who like a little heat.

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How To Make the Quick Huli Huli Chicken

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squirt of sriracha if you want some spice.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill or Oven

For grilling: Heat your grill to medium-high and oil the grates.
For oven roasting: Preheat to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Grill the chicken 5–6 minutes per side, basting with leftover marinade until beautifully charred and caramelized. If using the oven, bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping and basting halfway through.

Step 5: Let It Rest

Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This keeps the juices sealed inside and enhances the flavor.

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Serving and Storing Your Huli Huli Chicken

Serve this savory-sweet chicken hot off the grill alongside steamed jasmine rice, grilled pineapple, or a crisp cabbage slaw. Garnish with chopped scallions or cilantro for added brightness. It’s a dish that begs for seconds.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or re-crisp in a skillet over medium heat. The glaze holds up wonderfully, intensifying the flavor with each passing day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes, but if you can give it 4 hours or even overnight, the flavors deepen beautifully.

Can I use canned pineapple juice?

Absolutely. Just make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugar to keep the balance of sweet and tangy.

What if I don’t have a grill?

Your oven broiler or stovetop grill pan works perfectly. You can also bake the chicken and broil the last few minutes for a nice char.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes! Add the raw chicken and marinade to a freezer bag, seal, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as directed.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not inherently. The spice level is entirely up to you based on how much sriracha or chili flakes you use.

Can I double the marinade for sauce?

Yes, but make a fresh batch or boil the leftover marinade thoroughly before using it as a sauce.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with Tropical Flavor?

If this Quick Huli Huli Chicken is calling your name, you might also enjoy these flavorful recipes:

• Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe
• Tasty Pineapple Chicken and Rice
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot
• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet
• Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Creamy Mustard Dip

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you grill it or bake it? Did you throw in extra pineapple? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own.

Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter and tastier meals!

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