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Easy Juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Thighs Recipe for Perfect Grilled Flavor

Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken thighs - featured image

This easy juicy Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken thighs recipe delivers a sweet and tangy grilled flavor with a caramelized glaze, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or festive outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Thinly sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, ketchup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and optional red pepper flakes in a medium bowl.
  2. Place chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Seal or cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Clean and oil the grates.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place skin-side down on the grill and cook for 7-8 minutes until skin is crisp and golden.
  5. Flip chicken and grill for another 7-10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. While chicken cooks, bring leftover marinade to a boil in a small saucepan, then simmer for 5 minutes to thicken. Brush glaze over chicken during last few minutes of grilling.
  7. Transfer chicken to a platter and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Notes

Marinate chicken at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for best flavor. Pat chicken dry before grilling for crispy skin. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F. Keep grill lid closed to maintain heat and smoky flavor. Manage flare-ups due to sugar in marinade by moving chicken to indirect heat or using a spray bottle of water. The glaze step is optional but highly recommended for sticky, flavorful finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: Huli Huli chicken, Hawaiian chicken, grilled chicken thighs, sweet and tangy chicken, easy chicken recipe, barbecue chicken, tropical chicken