Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce is a tropical delight that brings the flavors of Hawaii right to your kitchen. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something special. With its sweet and tangy sauce and juicy chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For Garnish
- How to Make Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce
- Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Step 3: Preheat the Grill
- Step 4: Skewer the Chicken
- Step 5: Grill the Chicken
- Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- How to Serve Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce
- Grilled Pineapple Slices
- Coconut Rice
- Fresh Herb Garnish
- Tropical Salad
- Skewered Kabobs
- Dipping Sauce
- How to Perfect Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce
- Best Side Dishes for Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce
- Reheating Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce unique?
- Can I adjust the spice level of the sauce?
- How do I serve Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce?
- Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
- How long does it take to make Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and spices creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from prep to plate, this dish fits perfectly into busy schedules.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or in wraps, salads, or rice bowls.
- Healthy Choice: Using boneless chicken thighs keeps it lean while packing in protein.
- Grill-Friendly: Perfect for outdoor grilling, adding a smoky flavor to your meals.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Skewers (if making kabobs)
- Basting brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Provides that delicious charred flavor that enhances the chicken’s taste.
- Mixing bowl: Ensures all ingredients are well combined for a balanced flavor in the marinade.
- Skewers: Great for making kabobs; they help cook the chicken evenly on the grill.
Ingredients
For this Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce recipe, you will need the following:
- 3 lbs Chicken (boneless thighs, sliced to 2 pieces to make kabobs)
- 1 Cup Pineapple (juice)
- 1/2 Cup Soy Sauce (or 3/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce)
- 1/2 Cup Tomato Ketchup
- 1/3 Cup Sugar (light brown or white sugar)
- 2 tsp Ginger (grated, about 2 inch piece of ginger)
- 1 tsp Garlic (grated, about 2-3 cloves of garlic)
- 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 tsp Sesame Oil
- 2 tsp Mustard (ground Dijon mustard)
- 2 tbsp Sherry Vinegar (or 4 tbsp unseasoned rice vinegar)
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (fresh fine cracked)
- Salt (adjust to taste)
- Oil Spray (for grilling)
- 4 tbsp Fresh Herbs (parsley, for garnish)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, sugar, ginger, garlic, sriracha, sesame oil, mustard, sherry vinegar, black pepper, and salt. Whisk until well blended.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and ensure all pieces are coated. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly spray the grates with oil spray to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Skewer the Chicken
If using skewers, thread marinated chicken pieces onto them. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Place skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top for garnish. Enjoy your delicious meal!
How to Serve Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce
Serving your Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this juicy Hawaiian delight.
Grilled Pineapple Slices
- Pairing grilled pineapple with your chicken adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory notes of the dish.
Coconut Rice
- Serve the chicken over fluffy coconut rice for a tropical twist. The creaminess of the rice balances the bold flavors of the Huli Huli sauce.
Fresh Herb Garnish
- A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro enhances both presentation and flavor, making each bite more enjoyable.
Tropical Salad
- Create a light salad with mixed greens, avocado, and citrus dressing. This adds freshness and crunch to your meal.
Skewered Kabobs
- Present the chicken on skewers, alternating with bell peppers and onions for a colorful, fun serving option perfect for gatherings.
Dipping Sauce
- Offer extra Huli Huli sauce as a dip on the side. This allows guests to enjoy more of those delicious flavors at their leisure.
How to Perfect Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce
To make your Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Marinate Longer: Allow chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor absorption.
- Grill at High Heat: Cooking over high heat gives you better char and caramelization, enhancing both taste and appearance.
- Baste While Grilling: Brush extra marinade onto the chicken while grilling. This keeps it moist and adds layers of flavor.
- Use Bone-In Chicken: For even juicier results, try using bone-in thighs instead of boneless pieces.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps retain juices for a more succulent bite.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the spice by adding more or less Sriracha in your marinade depending on your taste preference.

Best Side Dishes for Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce
Complementing your Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce with tasty sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Fried Rice: A savory fried rice packed with veggies is a hearty addition that pairs well with chicken.
- Mango Salsa: A refreshing mango salsa adds sweetness and acidity, balancing the richness of the chicken.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides texture and a creamy element that contrasts beautifully with grilled chicken.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring sweetness and crunch that harmonizes perfectly with the dish.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add color to your plate while offering nutritious benefits.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs can be a healthy side that complements the main dish nicely.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled alongside adds summer vibes and sweetness to each bite.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers comfort food appeal that rounds out your Hawaiian meal perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.
- Using the wrong cut of chicken: Boneless thighs work best for this recipe. They stay juicy and flavorful when grilled. Avoid using chicken breasts as they can dry out.
- Not marinating long enough: To achieve the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if possible. This allows the flavors from the Huli Huli Sauce to penetrate deeply.
- Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on your chicken while grilling. Overcooked chicken can become tough and dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Skipping the garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley add a wonderful touch to your dish. Don’t skip this step; it enhances both presentation and flavor.
- Ignoring temperature control: Make sure your grill is preheated before adding the chicken. If it’s too cool, the chicken will not sear properly, leading to uneven cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce
- Place in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish covered with foil, heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish covered loosely. Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce unique?
The combination of sweet pineapple juice and savory soy sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors that is distinctly Hawaiian.
Can I adjust the spice level of the sauce?
Yes! You can adjust the amount of Sriracha used in the sauce according to your taste preferences. Start small and add more if you like it spicier.
How do I serve Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice and grilled pineapple. You can also serve it on skewers as kabobs for easy eating at gatherings.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with firm tofu or jackfruit marinated in the same sauce for a delicious vegetarian option.
How long does it take to make Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce?
The total time is about 30 minutes, including prep and cook time, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Final Thoughts
Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your palate. We encourage you to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite at your dining table!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Delicious Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Huli Huli Chicken with Huli Huli Sauce is a tropical Hawaiian delight that combines juicy chicken thighs with a sweet and tangy marinade. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners, impressing guests and satisfying cravings. The tantalizing blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a flavor explosion that’s quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. Serve it as kabobs, in wraps, or over rice for a versatile meal option. With its healthy ingredient profile and grill-friendly nature, this recipe is bound to become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs boneless chicken thighs
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup tomato ketchup
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 2 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp grated garlic
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp sherry vinegar
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, sugar, ginger, garlic, sriracha, sesame oil, black pepper, and salt.
- Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 15 minutes (up to overnight).
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil it.
- Skewer marinated chicken pieces if making kabobs.
- Grill for about 10–15 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Let the chicken rest before serving hot with fresh parsley garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 85g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg