This Easy Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is sweet, tangy, and oh-so-delicious! Marinating the chicken in a yummy blend of pineapple juice and soy sauce gives it a flavorful twist.
I love cooking this dish on the grill because it makes the chicken extra juicy and tender. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy the smell of grilling chicken wafting through the air? 🍍🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: While bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs give great flavor, feel free to use chicken breasts if that’s what you have. They cook a bit faster, so watch them closely!
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice adds a bright flavor, but you can use canned juice if that’s easier. You could also swap with orange juice for a different fruity twist!
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce works wonderfully, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try tamari. It’s flavorful and a great substitute.
Brown Sugar: If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use white sugar with a bit of molasses mixed in. Honey or maple syrup can also work as substitutes for a bit of variation in flavor.
Ginger: Fresh ginger gives a wonderful punch, but if you don’t have any, powdered ginger can be a quick fix. Just use about 1/4 teaspoon.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but keeping it juicy is all about the marinade and cooking method. Here are my tips:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best. This helps infuse flavors and keep the chicken moist.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill will sear the chicken quickly, locking in moisture.
- Baste with the marinade while grilling but make sure to cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures it’s safely cooked.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy chicken!
Easy Grilled Huli Huli Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, but don’t forget to let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours—ideally overnight for the best flavor! Add in about 15-20 minutes for grilling. So, overall, you need a little planning but the wait is oh-so-worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, ginger (if using), black pepper, and oil. Mix until the sugar is fully dissolved and everything is well blended. This sweet and tangy marinade will give your chicken incredible flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you have the time. The longer it marinates, the tastier it will be!
3. Prepare to Grill:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, take the chicken out of the marinade, but don’t throw the marinade away! You’ll use it for basting later.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, place the chicken on it. Grill for about 6–7 minutes on each side. Be sure to baste the chicken occasionally with the reserved marinade to keep it moist and add extra flavor! Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has nice grill marks.
5. Let It Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This step is important as it allows the juices to redistribute inside the chicken. Serve the chicken with grilled pineapple slices, steamed rice, or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your deliciously sweet and tangy Huli Huli Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts if you prefer. Just note that boneless pieces will cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Can I Grill the Chicken Indoors?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan or an indoor electric grill. Just make sure to preheat your grill pan well and cook on medium heat for the best results.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, marinating for at least 2 hours will still yield delicious results!
How Should I Store Leftover Huli Huli Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, and consider adding a splash of pineapple juice or soy sauce when reheating to keep it moist.
