The Ultimate Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe – Just Like the Island Stands!

If you’ve ever strolled past a roadside food stand in Oahu, the smoky, sweet aroma of Huli Huli Chicken is unforgettable. This island-favorite is juicy, tangy, sweet, and perfectly charred on the outside — the ultimate grilled chicken dish that screams summer vibes and aloha spirit!

Today, we’re diving deep into how you can recreate this legendary dish at home — with all the flavors, secrets, and techniques that make it so addictive. Bookmark this recipe, because you’re going to want to make it again and again!

 Ingredients (Serves 6):

• 1 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice (preferably fresh)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (dark soy gives a richer flavor)
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (thighs are juicier than breasts)
• Fresh pineapple slices, for grilling (optional but amazing!)

 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl or ziplock bag, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and oil until fully combined.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs into the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.

Tip: Reserve about 1/3 of the marinade in a separate bowl to use later for basting during grilling. Don’t reuse the raw marinade.

3. Grill It to Perfection

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• While grilling, baste frequently with the reserved marinade for a glossy, sticky finish.
• Grill pineapple slices for 2–3 minutes per side until charred.

4. Serve with Aloha

Serve your Huli Huli Chicken hot, topped with grilled pineapple and chopped scallions. Pair with white rice, coconut rice, or a Hawaiian macaroni salad for a true island feast.

What to Serve with Huli Huli Chicken

• Coconut Jasmine Rice with lime zest
• Grilled Corn on the Cob with garlic butter
• Hawaiian Mac Salad with mayo and carrots
• Fresh mango salsa or pineapple chutney on the side

Tips for Perfect Huli Huli Chicken

• Let chicken come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking
• Don’t rush the marinade – flavor develops over time
• Use indirect heat if your grill runs hot, to prevent burning the sugar in the glaze
• Boneless thighs work best, but bone-in adds flavor if you’re willing to wait a bit longer
• Final Thoughts

Huli Huli Chicken is more than just grilled meat — it’s a taste of the tropics, a memory of sunshine, smoke, and sweetness in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a summer BBQ, family dinner, or just because you need a mental vacation, this recipe will hit the spot.