
This sweet and savory Huli Huli Grilled Chicken transforms ordinary grilled chicken into a Hawaiian-inspired delight with a sticky, tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. The combination of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger creates that perfect balance of flavors that makes this dish irresistible.
I first made this recipe for a backyard gathering when I wanted something beyond typical burgers and hot dogs. The aroma of the sauce hitting the hot grill had everyone gathering around, and now it's requested at every summer cookout we host.
Ingredients
- Pineapple juice: Forms the sweet base of the sauce and helps tenderize the chicken
- Soy sauce: Provides that essential umami depth and saltiness
- Brown sugar: Caramelizes beautifully on the grill creating those delicious charred bits
- Ketchup: Adds tomato tanginess and helps thicken the sauce
- Rice vinegar: Brings necessary acidity to balance the sweetness
- Fresh garlic and ginger: Non-negotiable for authentic flavor; always grate them fresh
- Sriracha: Adds a gentle heat that can be adjusted to your preference
- Worcestershire sauce: Contributes complex savory notes that round out the sauce
- Sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma; just a little goes a long way
- Boneless chicken breasts or thighs: Both work well; thighs stay juicier on the grill
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Huli Huli Sauce:
- Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl and whisk until the brown sugar completely dissolves into the liquid. The sauce should have a glossy appearance and smooth consistency. Take time to ensure everything is well incorporated as this forms the flavor foundation of the dish.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place chicken in a shallow dish or ziplock bag and pour half the sauce over it, ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes but no more than 2 hours; the acid in the pineapple juice can start to break down the meat if left too long. Reserve the remaining sauce for basting and serving.
- Preheat and Prepare Grill:
- Heat your grill to medium high heat around 375°F. Clean and oil the grates thoroughly to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for those beautiful grill marks and to prevent your chicken from tearing when flipped.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place on the hot grill and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, approximately 5 minutes per side for breasts or 3–4 minutes for thighs. Baste with fresh reserved sauce during the last few minutes of cooking to create a glossy, caramelized exterior.
- Grill the Pineapple:
- During the last few minutes of chicken cooking time, place pineapple slices on the grill and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly charred. The natural sugars will caramelize beautifully, enhancing the tropical flavor profile.
- Assemble Sandwiches:
- Toast the buns lightly on the grill for about 30 seconds. Spread sriracha mayo on both sides of the bun, add lettuce, grilled chicken, and finish with a slice of grilled pineapple. Drizzle with additional reserved sauce if desired.

Make-Ahead Options
The Huli Huli sauce can be prepared up to 5 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time on cooking day but also allows the flavors to meld together more intensely. You can even double or triple the sauce recipe and keep some on hand for quick weeknight meals; simply portion and freeze in small containers for up to 3 months.
Simple Sides That Pair Perfectly
This Hawaiian-themed chicken shines alongside simple sides that complement without competing. Coconut rice makes an excellent base; just replace half the cooking water with coconut milk. A quick slaw of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a rice vinegar dressing offers a refreshing crunch. For a complete tropical experience, consider grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potato, all of which can be cooked alongside your chicken on the grill.
Turning Leftovers Into New Meals
Leftover Huli Huli chicken transforms beautifully into entirely new dishes. Chop it finely and use in fried rice with vegetables and a splash of additional sauce. Create Hawaiian-inspired tacos by tucking pieces into corn tortillas with a pineapple salsa. For a quick lunch, toss cold chicken with mixed greens, mandarin oranges, and toasted almonds for a tropical salad. The sweet and savory profile of this chicken makes it incredibly versatile for reimagining into second meals.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is huli huli sauce made of?
Huli huli sauce combines pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sriracha, Worcestershire sauce, and toasted sesame oil for a tangy and sweet flavor.
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken in half of the huli huli sauce for 30 minutes to 2 hours to maximize flavor.
- → What type of chicken can I use?
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe, depending on your preference.
- → Can I make the huli huli sauce thicker?
Yes, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and simmer the sauce until it thickens before cooling and using.
- → What are some optional toppings for the sandwiches?
You can add bacon, tomato slices, cheese, or your favorite sandwich fillers to customize your meal.