Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Pineapple

Nothing beats firing up the grill for this Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Pineapple. The juicy chicken is marinated in a tangy sweet mixture then seared alongside fresh pineapple rings that caramelize perfectly. Topped with extra pineapple and savory garnishes this dish brings a sunny island flavor to your table in just thirty minutes.

The first time I grilled this my entire backyard smelled amazing and the kids could not wait to dig in. Now it is our go to summer barbecue specialty.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: best for rich flavor and stay juicy on the grill
• Teriyaki sauce: delivers key salty sweet depth select a thicker style if possible
• Pineapple juice: adds tropical acidity look for 100 percent juice with no added sugar
• Soy sauce: enhances umami try a low sodium variety to control salt
• Brown sugar: brings caramel notes and balances tanginess dark brown sugar intensifies richness
• Fresh garlic: for aromatic savory kick use freshly minced for best results
• Fresh ginger: brightens with zing pick plump firm roots and grate just before use
• Sesame oil: infuses nutty fragrance always choose toasted for fuller taste
• Fresh pineapple: creates sweetness and caramelization opt for ripe golden fruit with sweet aroma
• Sesame seeds: give crunch and flavor toast gently in a dry pan first
• Sliced green onions: offer freshness and color choose vibrant stalks with no browning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Marinade:

In a mixing bowl whisk together teriyaki sauce pineapple juice soy sauce brown sugar minced garlic grated ginger and sesame oil until fully blended This combination lays the foundation for layered flavor infusing both sweet and salty depth

Marinate the Chicken:

Place chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish Pour the marinade over making sure all pieces are well coated Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight This resting process deeply seasons the meat and helps tenderize

Heat the Grill:

Preheat your grill to medium high Brush grates with oil to prevent sticking and ensure clean grill marks

Grill the Chicken and Pineapple:

Remove chicken from marinade reserve the liquid for basting Grill chicken for six to seven minutes on each side recurrently basting with reserved marinade until the internal temperature reaches one hundred sixty five degrees and the outside caramelizes Place pineapple rings on the grill and cook two to three minutes per side until you see deep golden marks and the scent is sweet and toasted

Finish and Serve:

Arrange chicken on a serving platter Top with the grilled pineapple rings Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a hit of freshness and crunch Serve immediately while hot and juicy

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I always reach for the freshest pineapple I can find because its caramelized flavor steals the show Every time we serve this dish the kids love piling extra pineapple on their plate and it has become our little family tradition

Best Storage Practices

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat gently on the grill or in a skillet for best results The grilled pineapple keeps its texture if stored separately from the chicken

Simple Ingredient Swaps

Chicken breasts can be swapped for thighs if you prefer leaner cuts Gluten free tamari will work in place of regular soy sauce Bottled pineapple rings are convenient but fresh makes a noticeable difference

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chicken over steamed jasmine or coconut rice with a crisp cabbage slaw on the side For a bigger spread add grilled peppers and red onions and a light cucumber salad

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A Taste of Hawaii

Huli Huli chicken is a Hawaiian classic traditionally cooked over open flame with plenty of marinade Its name means turn turn in Hawaiian referring to the grilling process Pineapple is a local staple and brings signature sweetness

Recipe FAQs

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. Overnight marination creates a richer taste.

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, both boneless, skinless thighs and breasts work well. Adjust grilling time to prevent dryness.

→ How do I achieve caramelized pineapple rings?

Grill pineapple rings for 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the fruit caramelizes lightly.

→ Is this dish suitable for a dairy-free diet?

Yes, all listed ingredients are dairy-free. Always review labels to confirm, especially sauces.

→ What garnishes complement this dish?

Sesame seeds and sliced green onions add crunch and color, elevating taste and presentation.

→ Can I prepare this without a grill?

A grill pan or broiler can be used as alternatives to achieve similar flavors and caramelization.