Quick Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

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Sweet, smoky, and sticky with a vibrant tropical twist, Huli Huli Chicken is Hawaiian barbecue at its finest. This quick version delivers the same bold flavors with minimal prep and a fast turnaround, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, summer cookouts, or even spontaneous get-togethers.

The key is in the marinade—a mouthwatering blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar that infuses the chicken with sweet-savory complexity. Once grilled or broiled to charred perfection, every bite sings with caramelized edges and juicy tenderness. Serve with a side of steamed rice or a crisp salad, and let this island-inspired dish transport you.

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Ingredients for this Quick Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

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Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and smoked paprika. This will be your sweet and savory flavor base.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour in the marinade, seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours. The longer it sits, the deeper the flavor.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill or Broiler

Heat your grill to medium-high or set your oven’s broiler to high. Lightly oil the grill grates or line a baking sheet with foil if broiling.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or broil for about 6-8 minutes per side, until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred at the edges.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer the chicken to a platter, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and add lemon wedges on the side. Serve hot with rice, salad, or grilled veggies.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Ideally, marinate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, 2-4 hours is perfect. Avoid marinating overnight to prevent the texture from breaking down.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs remain juicier and more flavorful. If using breasts, adjust the cooking time to avoid drying them out.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No problem! Use your oven’s broiler or a stovetop grill pan. A regular skillet works too, though you may miss a bit of that charred flavor.

Is Huli Huli Chicken spicy?

Not inherently. It’s more sweet and tangy than spicy. You can add chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you prefer heat.

What side dishes pair well with it?

Steamed jasmine rice, grilled pineapple, or a crisp cucumber salad make great accompaniments. You could also try Hawaiian macaroni salad for a traditional touch.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate the chicken a few hours in advance and keep it chilled. Cook just before serving for best results.

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