There’s something unforgettable about Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken sticky, caramelized, smoky-sweet, and infused with tropical flavor. Whether you’ve tasted it at a roadside stand in Maui, searched for the best Huli Huli Chicken in Hawaii, or spotted the viral Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken stack trend online, this island classic delivers bold flavor with simple ingredients.
If you’re looking for an authentic Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken recipe that works on the grill, in the oven, or even in your air fryer, this guide covers everything. From marinade science to cultural history, we’re bringing Hawaiian BBQ straight to your kitchen no plane ticket required.
What Is Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken & Why It’s Special
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is a traditional Hawaiian BBQ chicken dish marinated in a sweet-savory sauce made with soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. The word “huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian referring to the traditional method of turning chicken repeatedly over open flame while basting with sauce.
Unlike many grilled chicken recipes, authentic Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken stands out because:
- It uses pineapple juice for sweetness and tenderizing
- The marinade doubles as glaze
- It builds layers of caramelization
- It’s central to Hawaiian potluck dishes and community BBQs
This isn’t just another poultry recipe it’s deeply rooted in Hawaiian food culture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Authentic Huli Huli Chicken Marinade
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in preferred for authentic huli huli chicken recipe)
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Hawaiian honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Optional:
- Chili flakes (for slight heat)
- Green onions for garnish
This creates the classic huli huli sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Make the Huli Huli Marinade
Whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, Hawaiian honey, garlic, ginger, ketchup, vinegar, and sesame oil.
Reserve ¼ cup separately for glazing.
This is your authentic huli huli chicken marinade.
Step 2 – Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken in a zip-top bag or dish. Pour marinade over it.
Refrigerate at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
Longer marination enhances flavor penetration.
Step 3 – Cook Using Your Preferred Method
🔥 Grill Method (Traditional Hawaiian BBQ)
Preheat grill to medium heat.
Grill chicken 5–7 minutes per side.
Baste repeatedly with reserved marinade.
“Huli” turn frequently for even caramelization.
Internal temp should reach 165°F.
🔥 Oven Method
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Place chicken on lined baking sheet.
Bake 30–35 minutes, basting halfway.
Broil final 3–5 minutes for caramelized finish.
🔥 Air Fryer Version
Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
Cook 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway.
Brush with glaze in last 5 minutes.
Perfect for quick Hawaiian chicken recipes at home.
Step 4 – Rest & Serve
Let chicken rest 5–10 minutes.
Serve with sticky rice and grilled pineapple.
Why This Is the Best Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
- Balanced sweet-savory profile
- True Hawaiian BBQ flavor
- Works grill, oven, or air fryer
- Family-friendly
- Potluck ready
The Science of Huli Huli Sauce
Pineapple juice contains bromelain, an enzyme that breaks down protein fibers. This tenderizes the chicken during marination.
However, too much time can make texture mushy which is why 4–12 hours is ideal.
Caramelization happens when sugar + soy proteins undergo Maillard reaction at high heat. Frequent turning (“huli”) prevents burning while allowing glaze layers to build.
Double basting creates sticky lacquer finish.
This balance makes Hawaiian honey + soy combination ideal for caramel depth.
Cultural Origin & Molokai Story
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken originated in the 1950s when Ernest Morgado began grilling teriyaki-style chicken for farmers on Molokai.
Chicken was cooked between two grills and flipped repeatedly “huli huli!”
It became a staple at:
- Fundraisers
- Community gatherings
- Hawaiian island grill events
- Hawaiian potluck dishes
Today, you’ll find variations like:
- Huli Huli Chicken Maui style
- Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack
- Hawaiian Bros inspired versions
This dish is more than food it’s island tradition.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Trend
The viral stack version layers:
Sticky rice
Sliced chicken
Extra huli huli sauce
Grilled pineapple
Green onions
This presentation is trending heavily in Hawaiian chicken dishes recipes on social media.
Variations
Authentic Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Use bone-in chicken thighs, charcoal grill.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe Easy
Use boneless thighs, oven method.
Molokai Chicken Version
Add extra pineapple glaze and grill over charcoal.
Koala Moa Chicken Style
Use whole split chicken for traditional roadside presentation.
Pairing Ideas
- Sticky rice
- Hawaiian macaroni salad
- Grilled vegetables
- Pineapple slaw
Common Mistakes
❌ Not reserving marinade
❌ Burning sugar glaze
❌ Over-marinating beyond 24h
❌ Cooking at too high heat
❌ Skipping resting time
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate up to 4 days.
Reheat covered at 325°F.
Freeze up to 2 months.
Nutrition Insight
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken provides:
- High protein
- Moderate carbs (from glaze)
- Balanced fat
- Flavorful yet portion-friendly
Works in balanced meals.
FAQs
What does Huli Huli mean?
It means “turn” in Hawaiian.
Is this authentic Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?
Yes, marinade and cooking style follow traditional method.
Can I make this in air fryer?
Yes, see air fryer section above.
What is the best Huli Huli Chicken in Hawaii?
Many say roadside Maui stands are unmatched.
Can I use chicken breast?
Yes, but reduce cook time to avoid dryness.
Internal Linking Suggestions
If you love Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken, explore:
- Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
- Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
- Caramelized Soy Chicken in Garlic Ginger Broth with Rice
Conclusion
This Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken recipe brings authentic island flavor straight to your kitchen whether you grill it outdoors, bake it in the oven, or crisp it in your air fryer. With its sweet-savory glaze, tender texture, and rich Hawaiian BBQ heritage, it’s one of the most beloved Hawaiian chicken recipes ever created. From backyard gatherings to cozy family dinners, this dish delivers bold tropical comfort in every bite.
✨ Try it this week and tag @EatTreatsRecipes on Pinterest or Instagram because comfort should always be this delicious!