The Art of Authentic Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken with Island Paradise Flavors

Perfect Marinade Development

Master the technique of balancing sweet, salty, and tangy elements for authentic huli huli flavor.

Chicken Preparation Excellence

Learn the art of properly seasoning and marinating chicken for maximum flavor penetration.

Grilling Temperature Mastery

Perfect the method of maintaining optimal heat for caramelization without burning.

Basting Technique Perfection

Master the skill of frequent basting for glossy, lacquered appearance and moisture retention.

Island Presentation Excellence

Learn optimal techniques for arranging and garnishing for authentic Hawaiian presentation.

Hawaiian Grilling Mastery Secrets for Perfect Tropical Huli Huli Chicken Excellence

Marinating Time: Longer marination (overnight) develops deeper flavor penetration and more tender chicken.

Grill Temperature: Medium-high heat prevents burning while ensuring proper caramelization of sugary glaze.

Basting Technique: Frequent basting creates beautiful lacquered appearance and prevents drying out.

Flare-Up Management: Move chicken to cooler zones if flames get too high from dripping marinade.

Temperature Check: Use meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches safe 165°F internal temperature.

Resting Period: Allow chicken to rest after grilling for juicier, more tender final result.

Authentic Tropical Huli Huli Chicken Pieces with Sweet Hawaiian Glaze and Island Flavors

Name: Authentic Tropical Huli Huli Chicken Pieces with Sweet Hawaiian Glaze and Island Flavors
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 4 h 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: For the Chicken Foundation:; 3 pounds chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks); 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; For the Huli Huli Marinade:; 1 cup pineapple juice; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup ketchup; For the Tropical Enhancement:; 3 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 green onions, chopped; For the Sweet Glaze:; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons mirin; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce; For the Pineapple Addition:; 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks; 2 tablespoons pineapple juice; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; For the Island Aromatics:; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves; Zest of 2 limes; 2 tablespoons lime juice; For the Grilling Process:

These succulent huli huli chicken pieces feature tender, juicy chicken marinated in a sweet-tangy Hawaiian glaze with pineapple, soy sauce, and brown sugar, grilled to perfection with caramelized edges. This island paradise masterpiece combines the authentic flavors of Hawaiian barbecue with tropical sweetness, creating an irresistible chicken experience that transforms simple ingredients into a taste of aloha perfect for backyard luaus, summer gatherings, or any time you want to bring the spirit of Hawaiian islands to your table through bold, tropical flavors.

Prep Time

30 Minutes

Cook Time

25 Minutes

Total Time

4H55 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Chicken Foundation:

3 pounds chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks)

2 teaspoons kosher salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon garlic powder

For the Huli Huli Marinade:

1 cup pineapple juice

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1/4 cup ketchup

For the Tropical Enhancement:

3 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 green onions, chopped

For the Sweet Glaze:

1/4 cup honey

2 tablespoons mirin

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon sriracha sauce

For the Pineapple Addition:

1 cup fresh pineapple chunks

2 tablespoons pineapple juice

1 tablespoon brown sugar

For the Island Aromatics:

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves

Zest of 2 limes

2 tablespoons lime juice

For the Grilling Process:

Vegetable oil for grill grates

Additional marinade for basting

Aluminum foil

For the Perfect Finish:

Toasted sesame seeds

Fresh pineapple wedges

Lime wedges for serving

Fresh cilantro sprigs

For the Flavor Boosters:

1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice

2 tablespoons coconut aminos

1 tablespoon fish sauce

For Special Equipment:

Large resealable bags

Grill or grill pan

Basting brush

Meat thermometer

Instructions

Pat chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels for better marinade absorption.

Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, rubbing spices evenly.

In large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar.

Add ketchup, rice vinegar, minced ginger, and minced garlic to marinade.

Stir in honey, mirin, sesame oil, and sriracha until well combined.

Place seasoned chicken in large resealable bags or shallow dish.

Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring all pieces are completely coated.

Marinate in refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.

Remove chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling to room temperature.

Preheat grill to medium-high heat and oil grates to prevent sticking.

Reserve 1/2 cup marinade for basting, discarding used marinade safely.

Grill chicken pieces skin-side down first for 6-8 minutes until golden.

Flip chicken and continue grilling for 15-20 minutes, basting frequently.

Move chicken to cooler part of grill if flare-ups occur from dripping.

Baste with reserved marinade every 5 minutes for caramelized glaze.

Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F in thickest part of meat.

During last 5 minutes, add pineapple chunks to grill for caramelization.

Remove chicken and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and fresh chopped cilantro generously.

Arrange on platter with grilled pineapple and lime wedges.

Serve immediately while hot with steamed rice and tropical sides.

Garnish with fresh mint and additional lime for authentic island presentation.

Authentic Tropical Huli Huli Chicken Pieces with Sweet Hawaiian Glaze and Island Flavors

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Authentic Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken with Island Paradise Flavors

Authentic Tropical Huli Huli Chicken Pieces with Sweet Hawaiian Glaze and Island Flavors

Ingredients

Instructions