The sun was setting, casting a golden hue over the backyard as the tantalizing aroma of marinated chicken filled the air. It was a typical Saturday, and I had a craving for something vibrant and packed with flavor. That’s when I decided to whip up my version of Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken, a dish that brings all the tropical vibes right to your table. With its delightful blend of sweet pineapple and savory spices, each bite transports me straight to the shores of Hawaii, making every gathering feel like a vacation.
Whether you’re hosting a casual cookout with friends or looking to impress family during Sunday dinner, this recipe is your ticket to culinary paradise. It’s easy to prepare, versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients, and perfect for making lasting memories. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and grill up a feast that will have everyone raving about those island-inspired flavors!
Why is Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack a Must-Try?
Vibrant Flavors: The sweet and savory blend of pineapple and spices makes every bite a delightful explosion of taste.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you choose to grill or cook on the stovetop, this recipe adapts beautifully to your kitchen setup.
Quick Prep Time: With just a few steps, you can enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your guests and spark conversations around the table.
Tropical Twist: Each bite feels like a mini-vacation, bringing that sun-soaked island vibe right to your plate.
Customization Options: Switch things up by trying different marinades or pairing with your favorite sides; the possibilities are endless!
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Ingredients
• Get ready for a tropical flavor explosion!
For the Marinade
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts – Thighs are juicier and recommended for maximum flavor.
- Sesame oil – Adds a rich, nutty flavor to your marinade, enhancing the overall taste.
- Grated fresh ginger – Contributes warmth and an aromatic depth that elevates the dish.
- Garlic – A must-have ingredient that provides savory notes to round out the flavor profile.
- Brown sugar – Balances the saltiness and contributes to caramelization while grilling.
- Soy sauce – Infuses umami and saltiness, creating that classic sweet-savory taste combination.
- Pineapple juice – Brings acidity and sweetness for a tangy marinade that complements the chicken.
- Teriyaki sauce – Essential for that sweet and savory glaze, making Huli Huli Chicken truly distinctive.
For Grilling
- Ripe pineapple – Grill slices to infuse a sweet, smoky flavor; canned pineapple can be used in a pinch.
- Chopped green onions – For a fresh, crunchy garnish that adds a pop of color to your dish.
- Toasted sesame seeds – Sprinkle these on top for a nutty crunch and added visual appeal.
With these Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken ingredients, you’re one step closer to a delightful, tropical feast that will transport you straight to the islands!
How to Make Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken
Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine sesame oil, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, and teriyaki sauce. Whisk until smooth and well-blended, creating a fragrant marinade.
Marinate Chicken: Place your chicken thighs or breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. Marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat. This will create the perfect sear on your chicken, locking in the juices.
Grill Chicken: Take the chicken out of the marinade (set aside for basting later). Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, basting occasionally with the leftover marinade, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has beautiful grill marks.
Grill Pineapple: While your chicken is cooking, place pineapple rings on the grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re nicely charred and aromatic, adding a delicious sweetness to your dish.
Serve: Serve the grilled chicken topped with those luscious grilled pineapple rings, a sprinkle of green onions, and a dash of toasted sesame seeds for a burst of flavor and texture.
Optional: Serve with coconut rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Variations
Feel free to explore the delicious possibilities of customizing this recipe!
Grilling Method: Use a stovetop grill pan if you don’t have outdoor space. You’ll still achieve that lovely char and flavor.
Pineapple Twist: Replace fresh pineapple with mango for a tropical flair that brightens up the marinade beautifully.
Heat Level: Add sliced jalapeños to the marinade or as a garnish for those who crave a spicy kick.
Pork Alternative: Swap chicken for pork tenderloin; it’s just as juicy and pairs well with the marinade.
Plant-Based Delight: For a vegetarian option, use tofu or tempeh, marinated and grilled to soak up those vibrant flavors.
Rice Varieties: Pair with coconut rice or quinoa for a fragrant side that complements the dish’s tropical notes.
Additional Garnish: Toss in crushed cashews or macadamia nuts as a topping for delightful crunch and nuttiness.
Sizzling Skewers: Thread marinated chicken and bell peppers onto skewers for a fun, shareable dish perfect for gatherings.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack?
Complete your Hawaiian-inspired meal with vibrant and complementary sides that will elevate your gathering into a tropical feast!
- Fluffy Coconut Rice: This fragrant rice absorbs the delicious juices from the chicken, adding a creamy texture that enhances the dish’s sweetness.
- Charred Vegetables: Grill colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and corn on the cob alongside the chicken for added freshness and a delightful crunch—plus, they soak up the smoky flavors.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with lime dressing brings a zesty contrast, cutting through the richness of the chicken and pineapple.
- Pineapple Salsa: Combine diced pineapple, jalapeño, red onion, and cilantro for a fresh salsa that mirrors the chicken’s tropical notes.
- Mango Slaw: Crisp cabbage and sweet mango tossed in a tangy dressing provide a crunchy, sweet balance that works wonderfully with savory chicken.
- Mai Tai Cocktail: Sip on this classic tropical drink, with its blend of rum, lime, and orange flavors—perfectly harmonizing with your plate while celebrating the Hawaiian spirit!
- Chili-Lime Corn on the Cob: Spicy, tangy corn on the cob adds a pop of flavor and fun, making it a great choice for BBQ lovers.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Finish off the meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey chocolate lava cake, offering a rich dessert that brings utter bliss.
With these delicious sides, your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack will shine, creating a memorable experience that your loved ones will cherish.
Make Ahead Options
These Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken stacks are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse the meat. Simply mix the marinade, as outlined, and store it with the chicken in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can cut the pineapple and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just grill the marinated chicken and pineapple as instructed, ensuring everything is cooked to the proper temperature. This way, you’ll enjoy a vibrant, island-inspired dish that’s just as delicious with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken
Maximize Flavor: Marinate the chicken overnight for deep flavor infusion; the longer, the better for a truly succulent Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for both safety and juiciness; this is key to avoiding dryness.
Don’t Rush the Grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat; this helps achieve that desirable char and prevents sticking.
Vegetable Pairing: Add skewered vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini on the grill; they’ll complement the chicken’s smokiness beautifully.
Leftover Magic: Turn leftover chicken into flavorful sandwiches or salads for an easy, delightful lunch the next day; it’s versatile and delicious!
Storage Tips for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack
Fridge: Store leftover Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight bags for up to 3 months. Lay flat to save space, and remember to label for easy identification.
Reheating: To enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave with a splash of water to keep the chicken moist.
Grilled Pineapple: If you have leftover grilled pineapple, store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s great in smoothies or as a topping for desserts!
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for maximum juiciness and flavor. However, chicken breasts can also be used; just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to prevent them from drying out.
How should I store leftover Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?
Store your leftover Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Can I freeze Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken? If so, how?
Absolutely! For freezing, place portions of the chicken in airtight freezer bags, laying them flat to save space. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. Remember to label your bags with the date for easy identification when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
What can I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly on the grill?
If you notice uneven cooking, it may be due to the chicken being too thick. You can either pound the chicken to a more uniform thickness before marinating or check the internal temperature regularly. Chicken should reach 165°F for complete doneness. Also, ensure your grill is preheated to the correct temperature.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Great question! This recipe contains soy sauce, which may not be suitable for those with soy allergies. If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, opt for tamari or coconut aminos instead. Always check that your teriyaki sauce aligns with dietary restrictions as well.
How ripe should my pineapple be for grilling?
Choose a ripe pineapple that has a sweet aroma and gives slightly when pressed—this indicates it’s ready for grilling. Look for a healthy, vibrant color without dark spots all over. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple is a suitable alternative that still delivers great flavor in your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack!
Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack: A Flavor Explosion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine sesame oil, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, and teriyaki sauce. Whisk until smooth and well-blended.
- Marinate Chicken: Place chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken and ensure it's fully coated. Marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Set grill to medium-high heat for the perfect sear.
- Grill Chicken: Grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, basting occasionally with leftover marinade, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Grill Pineapple: While chicken cooks, place pineapple rings on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until charred.
- Serve: Serve grilled chicken topped with grilled pineapple, green onions, and sesame seeds.
