April 8 2025

Huli Huli Hawaiian Chicken Marinade

Name: Huli Huli Hawaiian Chicken
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup pineapple juice; ¼ cup soy sauce; ¼ cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp ketchup; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp grated ginger; 4 chicken breasts (or thighs)

Khemit Chicken Recipes 0

Hey there! 🏝️ I’ve got something super delicious to share with you today – Huli Huli Hawaiian Chicken Marinade.

Trust me, once you try this out, you’ll be amazed of how good it tasts! I love making this marinade because it’s sweet, tangy, and totally mouthwatering.

Not only that, it’s super easy to whip up as well. You’re also going to be amazed at how quickly this transforms regular chicken into something really special!

I don’t know about you, but I’m all about simple recipes that bring big flavors. And this one? It’s a total game changer.

Whether you’re grilling for a get-together or just making dinner, this marinade makes everything taste like a tropical vacation. 🌺

I’ve been making it for a while now, and every time, I get compliments. It’s one of those recipes you can’t wait to make again.

So, grab your ingredients and let’s get started cooking. I can’t wait for you to taste it out!

Why You Need to Try This Huli Huli Hawaiian Chicken Marinade

Huli Huli Hawaiian Chicken is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, tropical flavors.

The marinade combines the sweetness of pineapple, a hint of soy sauce, and a touch of ginger, creating a delicious balance that’s both tangy and savory.

Not only is it super easy to make, but the flavors are so vibrant, they’ll instantly impress anyone you’re cooking for.

Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a backyard BBQ, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

And, it only takes about 15 minutes to prep – quick and tasty!

How to Cook the Huli Huli Hawaiian Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Mix the Marinade

In a bowl, combine 1 cup of pineapple juice, ¼ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger. Stir it all together like you’re making a tropical smoothie.

Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken (about 4 chicken breasts or thighs) into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.

Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated. Seal it up and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour (but overnight works best if you’re not in a rush!).

Grill the Chicken

Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Toss the chicken on there and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

You’ll know it’s ready when it’s golden and crispy on the outside – like a perfect tan!

Serve and Enjoy

Once your chicken is cooked through, take it off the grill, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it up.

Serve it with a side of rice, veggies, or even a fresh tropical salad. Don’t forget to brag about how awesome it tastes!

Now, Enjoy

Common Mistakes to Avoid (and How to Fix Them)

Skipping the Marinate Time

I get it – you’re hungry and ready to eat NOW. But trust me, skipping the marinade time is a mistake you’ll regret.

The longer the chicken sits in that flavorful goodness, the better it tastes! Try to marinate it for at least an hour, but if you’ve got time, overnight is the magic ticket.

Not Preheating the Grill

If you toss your chicken on a cold grill, it’s like trying to start a race without warming up first.

Make sure your grill is hot before you throw the chicken on there, or you’ll end up with a sad, soggy dinner. Preheat that grill to medium-high heat!

Overcooking the Chicken

Dry chicken? No thanks! Don’t leave your chicken on the grill for too long. Aim for 6-8 minutes per side (depending on thickness) and use a meat thermometer.

When it hits 165°F, it’s time to take it off. Trust me, you don’t want it turning into a rubbery mess.

Not Resting the Chicken

Patience, my friend! After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute, so your chicken stays juicy and tender instead of a dry disaster.

Avoid these slip-ups, and you’re all set for a tasty, impressive meal!

How to Best Serve This Dish

The beauty of Huli Huli Hawaiian Chicken is how versatile it is! Serve it up with a side of fluffy white rice or coconut rice to soak up that amazing marinade.

You can also pair it with a fresh tropical fruit salad for that extra island vibe. Want something crunchy?

A side of grilled veggies or a simple green salad works wonders, too. For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of the leftover marinade over the chicken before serving.

Whether it’s for a laid-back dinner or impressing guests at a BBQ, this dish will shine! 🌺

Best Tips for the Huli Huli Hawaiian Chicken

Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor

While boneless chicken works fine, bone-in pieces (like thighs) bring a richer flavor and juicier texture. And, they’re great at holding onto the marinade!

Double the Marinade

If you love the sauce (and who doesn’t?), make extra! You can brush some on the chicken while grilling for that extra burst of flavor or even use it as a dipping sauce on the side.

Grill with a Lid Closed

Closing the grill lid helps keep the heat and smoke in, giving the chicken that amazing grilled flavor and making sure it cooks evenly. It’s like giving your chicken a cozy little sauna session!

Add Some Heat

If you like a little spice, throw in a chopped chili or two into the marinade. The kick is subtle but adds a nice balance to the sweetness.

Rest the Chicken Before Cutting

After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. It locks in those juices, making each bite incredibly tender and juicy.

With these tips, you’ll be a Huli Huli chicken pro in no time!

Serving Suggestions for Huli Huli Hawaiian Chicken

Tropical Rice

Serve the chicken over a bed of coconut rice for a sweet and savory combo that’s straight out of a tropical paradise. The creaminess of the coconut pairs perfectly with the tangy marinade.

Grilled Veggies

Keep it light and healthy by pairing your chicken with grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. They add color and balance to the richness of the chicken.

Fresh Pineapple Salsa

Give your dish a burst of freshness with a simple pineapple salsa. Just chop up some pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. It’s the perfect complement to the sweet and savory chicken.

Crisp Salad

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the chicken, making for a refreshing side. Add a handful of sliced almonds or crushed macadamia nuts for a little crunch!

Island-Style Slaw

A tangy, creamy slaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a splash of lime adds a crunchy, refreshing contrast to the juicy chicken. It’s a crowd-pleaser at any BBQ!

These sides will take your Huli Huli Hawaiian Chicken to the next level! Enjoy! 🍍

Storage and Freezing Huli Huli Hawaiian Chicken

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve got any chicken left over (lucky you!), let it cool to room temperature first.

Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat it gently so it doesn’t dry out!

Freezing

Got extra chicken you want to keep for later? No problem! After it cools, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the oven to keep it juicy.

With these storage tips, you can enjoy your Huli Huli Hawaiian Chicken even after the party’s over!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work, but they might be a little drier than thighs. To keep them juicy, try not to overcook them and marinate for as long as possible.
Can I make this without a grill?
Yes! You can cook the chicken in a grill pan or even bake it in the oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes. Just be sure to keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 1 hour. But if you’ve got the time, marinate it overnight in the fridge – the longer it sits, the more flavorful it gets!
Can I freeze the marinade?
Yep! If you have leftover marinade, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
What if I don’t have pineapple juice?
If you’re out of pineapple juice, orange juice can work as a substitute! It’ll give your chicken a slightly different flavor, but still delicious.
Can I make the marinade without soy sauce?
Yes! If you’re avoiding soy sauce, try coconut aminos or a tamari sauce. Both are great alternatives that will keep the savory flavor intact.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to check is with a meat thermometer. When the chicken hits 165°F internally, it’s done! If you don’t have one, just cut into the thickest part of the chicken – if the juices run clear, you’re good to go.

Got more questions? Drop them in the comments, and I’ll be happy to help you!

Conclusion

And there you have it – a quick, easy, and seriously delicious way to bring a taste of Hawaii to your kitchen!

I bet after making this, you’ll never want to buy store-bought marinades again. The homemade flavor is so much better – and, you can brag about it to your friends and family.

I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Feel free to share your version with me, and let me know if you tried any fun twists on this recipe.

Don’t be shy, let’s keep it tropical! 🌴

You Might Also Want To Try These Delicious Ones…