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Hawaiian Bros Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Hawaiian Bros Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

If you love sweet and savory chicken, this Hawaiian Bros Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is for you. It is juicy, sticky and full of island flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Hawaiian
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds chicken thighs or chicken breast
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
  

Prepare the Marinade

  • In a large bowl, add pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar and honey. Whisk until the sugar dissolves completely. This sweet base gives the chicken its signature Hawaiian flavor.

Add Aromatics

  • Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil and black pepper. These ingredients add warmth and depth to the sauce. Take a moment to smell it. It already smells amazing.

Marinate the Chicken

  • Place the chicken in a large container or zip bag. Pour the marinade over it. Make sure every piece is coated well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor.

Preheat Your Cooking Surface

  • Heat your grill, skillet or oven. Medium heat works best. This allows the sauce to caramelize without burning the chicken. Always preheat for even cooking.

Cook the Chicken

  • Remove chicken from the marinade. Cook on the grill or pan for about 6 to 7 minutes per side. Baste often with extra marinade for extra flavor and shine.

Caramelize the Sauce

  • As the chicken cooks, the sauce thickens and sticks to the surface. Turn carefully and keep basting. This step creates that glossy, sticky Huli Huli finish.

Check for Doneness

  • Cook until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature. The meat should be juicy and tender. The outside should look dark, shiny, and slightly charred.

Rest and Garnish

  • Remove the chicken from heat. Let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving for extra flavor and color.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for juicier results.
  • Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Use fresh pineapple juice for brighter flavor.
  • Bake at 400°F if you don’t have a grill.
  • Turn the marinade into a thick glaze by simmering it first.
  • Serve sliced for easier sharing.
Keyword Hawaiian Bros Huli Huli Chicken Recipe