I simply adore how this huli huli chicken recipe Pineapple Ginger Glaze brings such vibrant flavors to our family table. The sweet and tangy aroma fills my kitchen as it cooks, promising tender, caramelized chicken that’s hard to resist. This easy, family-friendly meal is a fantastic way to enjoy a taste of the tropics right at home, even on the busiest weeknights. It’s become my go-to when I need a healthy dinner idea that everyone will devour after a long day.
Ingredients
Our Huli Huli Chicken recipe starts with fresh, quality ingredients for the best flavor. This simple list forms the foundation for a truly delicious, family-friendly meal, adaptable for various dietary needs.
- Chicken: 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (for high-protein and juicy texture)
- Pineapple Juice: 1 cup (240ml) (for sweetness, natural tenderizing, and the signature huli huli flavor)
- Soy Sauce: 1/2 cup (120ml) (umami depth; low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free options works too)
- Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup (50g) packed (for caramelization and rich sweetness; honey or maple syrup are good alternatives)
- Fresh Ginger: 2 Tbsp (30g) grated (for zesty warmth and aromatic spice; always use fresh for best taste)
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced (essential aromatic base; fresh garlic cloves offer superior flavor to powder)
- Ketchup: 1/4 cup (60ml) (adds tangy richness and helps thicken the glaze)
- Rice Vinegar: 2 Tbsp (30ml) (provides balance and a bright acidic note)
Optional Add-ins & Smart Swaps: These optional additions and smart swaps allow you to customize your Huli Huli Chicken recipe. Consider a dash of sesame oil for nutty aroma, or a pinch of sriracha for a gentle kick. Fresh pineapple chunks can be grilled alongside for extra flavor.
Premium/Healthy Variations: Choose organic chicken for a healthier choice. Opt for freshly grated ginger and gluten-free tamari for dietary adjustments. These choices enhance the flavor and nutritional profile.
Seasonal or Freshness Notes: Seek out ripe, fragrant pineapples in season for the best juice. Always use fresh ginger root and garlic cloves over their powdered counterparts for superior, vibrant flavor in your Pineapple Ginger Glaze.
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup pineapple juice, 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 2 Tbsp grated fresh ginger, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup ketchup, and 2 Tbsp rice vinegar until completely smooth. (5 minutes; ensure no sugar lumps remain as the aroma of this marinade is incredible). This creates the base for our flavorful huli huli chicken recipe.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add 2 lbs chicken pieces to the marinade in a large bowl or zip-top bag, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 2-4 hours for maximum flavor. (Overnight for truly deep flavor infusion and tender chicken; I sometimes marinate it overnight if I’m planning for an easy family dinner the next day).
- Preheat & Prepare: If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F / 190-200°C) until hot. If baking, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a sturdy sheet pan with foil for easy cleanup. (Allow 10-15 minutes for preheating; a consistent heat ensures even cooking).
- Cook the Chicken:
- Grilling Method: Place chicken on the hot grill, discarding excess marinade. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until deeply browned grill marks appear and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). (Watch for flare-ups; if chicken browns too quickly, reduce heat).
- Baking Method: Arrange chicken in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan. Bake for 25-35 minutes, flipping once halfway, until golden and cooked through. (The juices should run clear; to avoid dry chicken, use a meat thermometer and don’t overcook).
- Make the Glaze: While chicken cooks, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. This becomes your luscious Pineapple Ginger Glaze. (The aroma will be wonderfully sweet and tangy; If the glaze gets too thick, add a splash of pineapple juice to loosen it.)
- Glaze & Serve: Brush the thickened Pineapple Ginger Glaze generously over the cooked chicken during the last 5 minutes of grilling or baking. Allow it to caramelize and become sticky. Serve this incredible huli huli chicken recipe with Pineapple Ginger Glaze immediately. (The glaze will be glossy and beautiful).
Inline Options for Special Diets: For low-carb options, use a sugar substitute (like erythritol) in the glaze and tamari for soy sauce. For a paleo option, swap soy sauce for coconut aminos and brown sugar for honey.
Best Times to Enjoy and Storage Tips
Situations for this Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
- Family dinners or backyard BBQs
- Easy weeknight meals
- Flavorful meal prep component
Serving Pairings
- Fluffy white rice or coconut rice
- A crisp green salad or steamed broccoli
- Grilled pineapple spears
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover huli huli chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2-3 months, then reheated gently in the microwave or oven (300°F / 150°C) until warmed through.
Health, Nutrition & Lifestyle Benefits of Huli Huli Chicken Recipe Pineapple Ginger Glaze
Connect to Diet and Lifestyle Needs
This huli huli chicken recipe offers a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and maintaining satiety, making it an excellent easy healthy dinner idea. It’s easily adapted for dietary preferences, allowing it to fit into various healthy eating plans.
Benefits for Energy, Balance, & Nourishment
Enjoy sustained energy from the protein-rich chicken and a balanced meal when paired with your favorite vegetables and a whole grain. This huli huli chicken recipe provides essential nutrients and is perfect for quick meal prep recipes, and even as high-protein snacks if you portion out leftovers. Simple modifications make it suitable for low-carb options too.
How This Recipe Matches Everyday Goals
Our huli huli chicken recipe aligns perfectly with common household needs, simplifying mealtime without sacrificing flavor.
- It’s a budget-friendly option, utilizing common pantry staples for its delicious Pineapple Ginger Glaze.
- This is a time-saving meal, especially with advanced marinating or quick cooking methods like grilling.
- Offers great nutritional value as a balanced, high-protein dish, supporting a healthy lifestyle.
- Incredibly versatile for different cooking methods and can be easily doubled for meal prep.
Pro Tips and Adjustments with Huli Huli Chicken Recipe Pineapple Ginger Glaze
Technique Refinements
For extra tender chicken, aim to marinate it for a full 4 hours, or even overnight if your schedule allows. If using bone-in, skin-on pieces and you crave crispy skin, finish them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after glazing; watch closely to prevent burning.
Seasoning and Spice Adjustments
Feel free to adjust the amounts of fresh ginger and garlic to match your personal preference for intensity. For a bolder, spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of sriracha directly into the Pineapple Ginger Glaze.
Allergy-Friendly or Kid-Friendly Modifications
To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out regular soy sauce for gluten-free tamari. For a less sweet glaze, you can reduce the brown sugar slightly. When serving kids, I sometimes use less ginger and offer extra grilled pineapple on the side, which they always love.
FAQs
Is Huli Huli Chicken with Pineapple Ginger Glaze good for weight loss?
Yes, when prepared with lean chicken breast and mindful portion sizes, this huli huli chicken recipe can certainly be part of a balanced weight loss plan. Its high protein content helps with satiety and muscle maintenance, making it a smart choice.
Can I use Huli Huli Chicken in meal prep plans?
Absolutely! This huli huli chicken recipe is fantastic for quick meal prep recipes. I often cook a larger batch on Sunday, then portion it out with brown rice and steamed greens. Stored in individual containers, it makes for super easy, healthy lunches throughout the week.
How do I get crispy Huli Huli Chicken skin?
If you’re using bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, the trick is to finish them under a hot broiler for 1-2 minutes after they’ve been glazed. The high heat helps crisp up the skin beautifully, just ensure you watch it closely to prevent the sweet Pineapple Ginger Glaze from burning.
What sides go well with Huli Huli Chicken?
Classic pairings include fluffy white or brown rice, coconut rice, or a refreshing green salad. Grilled pineapple, steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, or even a light coleslaw also complement this flavorful huli huli chicken recipe perfectly.
Is this Huli Huli Chicken recipe healthy?
Yes, our huli huli chicken recipe prioritizes lean protein. You can enhance its health profile by opting for low-sodium soy sauce and controlling the amount of added brown sugar. It stands as a much healthier, family-friendly alternative to many high-fat takeout options.
Can I make the Pineapple Ginger Glaze ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the Pineapple Ginger Glaze up to 3 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat before brushing it generously onto your cooked huli huli chicken.
CONCLUSION
This easy huli huli chicken recipe with Pineapple Ginger Glaze truly delivers a flavorful, family-friendly meal that’s simple to make and tastes incredible. My family always asks for seconds! Save this delicious recipe to your Pinterest board or share it with friends for your next quick meal prep recipes inspiration, embracing healthy eating.
huli huli chicken recipe Pineapple Ginger Glaze
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
This Huli Huli Chicken recipe features tender, caramelized chicken coated in a sweet and tangy Pineapple Ginger Glaze. It’s an easy, family-friendly meal perfect for a taste of the tropics at home.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 0.5 cup soy sauce (low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free options works too)
- 0.25 cup packed brown sugar (honey or maple syrup are good alternatives)
- 2 Tbsp grated fresh ginger (always use fresh for best taste)
- 4 cloves minced garlic (fresh garlic cloves offer superior flavor)
- 0.25 cup ketchup
- 2 Tbsp rice vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare The Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup pineapple juice, 0.5 cup soy sauce, 0.25 cup packed brown sugar, 2 Tbsp grated fresh ginger, 4 minced garlic cloves, 0.25 cup ketchup, and 2 Tbsp rice vinegar until completely smooth. (5 minutes; ensure no sugar lumps remain)
- Marinate The Chicken: Add 2 lbs chicken pieces to the marinade in a large bowl or zip-top bag, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 2-4 hours for maximum flavor. (Overnight for truly deep flavor infusion)
- Preheat And Prepare: If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F/190-200°C). If baking, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a sturdy sheet pan with foil for easy cleanup. (Allow 10-15 minutes for preheating)
- Cook The Chicken: For grilling method, place chicken on the hot grill, discarding excess marinade. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until deeply browned grill marks appear and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For baking method, arrange chicken in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan. Bake for 25-35 minutes, flipping once halfway, until golden and cooked through. (The juices should run clear; use a meat thermometer and do not overcook)
- Make The Glaze: While chicken cooks, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. (If the glaze gets too thick, add a splash of pineapple juice to loosen it.)
- Glaze And Serve: Brush the thickened Pineapple Ginger Glaze generously over the cooked chicken during the last 5 minutes of grilling or baking. Allow it to caramelize and become sticky. Serve immediately. (The glaze will be glossy and beautiful)
Notes
Consider a dash of sesame oil for nutty aroma, or a pinch of sriracha for a gentle kick. Fresh pineapple chunks can be grilled alongside for extra flavor. For healthier variations, choose organic chicken. For low-carb options, use a sugar substitute (like erythritol) in the glaze and tamari for soy sauce. For a paleo option, swap soy sauce for coconut aminos and brown sugar for honey. Always use fresh ginger root and garlic cloves over their powdered counterparts for superior, vibrant flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh/breast (approx. 150 g)
- Calories: 380 calories
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
Keywords: Huli Huli Chicken, Pineapple Ginger Glaze, Hawaiian, grilled chicken, baked chicken, easy dinner, family-friendly, sweet and tangy