Name: Spicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 8 h 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 8 h 25 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1 cup brown sugar; 3/4 cup ketchup; 3/4 cup soy sauce; 1/3 cup pineapple juice; 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon fresh minced ginger; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 4-5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs

If you crave a vibrant, island-inspired dinner bursting with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, then this Spicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s easy, irresistible, and brings a little aloha spirit straight to your table.

A white plate full of grilled chicken thighs with shiny caramelized dark brown sauce and char marks, stacked in a slightly uneven pile; next to it, a white bowl filled with creamy macaroni salad featuring small elbow pasta mixed with a pale yellow dressing and topped with scattered bright green sliced scallions; both dishes are placed on a black and white patterned cloth on a white marbled surface, with a woman’s hand holding a wooden spoon beside a clean white bowl and fork nearby; the scene is bright and clear. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Spicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Spicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Spicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I still remember the first time I made this dish — guests kept coming back for seconds, enchanted by that perfect balance of sweetness from pineapple and brown sugar, savory soy sauce, with just the right zing of ginger and garlic.

Deep Flavor Fusion: The marinade blends sweet, tangy, and savory notes that soak deliciously into tender chicken thighs.
Simple Prep: Whisk up the marinade in minutes and let it work its magic overnight — effortless and hands-off.
Versatile Cooking: Whether you grill it outdoors or pan-fry inside, you’ll get a beautifully caramelized finish every time.
Party Perfect: This recipe yields 6 hearty servings, making it ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before you dive in, here’s a quick look at what you’ll need and why these ingredients make the magic happen. Pro tip: Fresh ginger and ripe pineapple juice really bring authenticity to the classic Hawaiian flavor profile.

Flat lay of a pile of fresh boneless skinless chicken thighs arranged neatly, a small white bowl filled with brown sugar crystals, a small white bowl of thick red ketchup, another small white bowl holding dark soy sauce, a small white bowl with golden pineapple juice, a small white bowl containing apple cider vinegar, a small mound of freshly minced pale yellow ginger root, and a small mound of freshly minced white garlic placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Brown sugar: Adds natural sweetness and helps create that gorgeous caramelized glaze during cooking.
Ketchup: Brings tangy tomato depth and body to the marinade.
Soy sauce: Provides salty, umami richness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Pineapple juice: Infuses a tropical fruity tang and tenderizes the chicken naturally.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle acidic brightness to lift all the flavors.
Fresh minced ginger: Offers a fragrant, spicy warmth that punches up the marinades’ complexity.
Minced garlic: Layers in savory depth and aromatics.
Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Perfect for soaking up marinade and staying juicy through quick, high-heat cooking.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Spicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is how easily you can tailor it to suit your taste buds or the occasion. Whether you want to dial up the heat, keep it family-friendly, or make it gluten-free, this recipe invites your personal twist with open arms.

Spice It Up: I love adding a splash of Sriracha or a finely chopped fresh chili to the marinade when I’m craving some extra heat. It really elevates the sweetness with a nice kick that wakes up the whole dish.
Gluten-Free Version: To keep it gluten-free, simply swap out regular soy sauce for tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce. The flavor stays just as rich and delicious.
Lean & Light: If you prefer chicken breast over thighs, go for it! Just watch the cooking time carefully—as chicken breasts cook faster—and you’ll have a leaner, lighter version that still holds that iconic Huli Huli flavor.
Smoky Twist: If you’re grilling outdoors, adding a handful of soaked wood chips to your charcoal or a smoker box on your gas grill can impart a beautiful smoky aroma that takes this dish to the next level.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Spicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

The image shows a clear plastic zipper bag inside a white bowl with blue edge, filled with raw light pink chicken pieces submerged in a thick, dark brown marinade with visible small chunks of garlic or ginger throughout. The bag is open at the top, resting on a white marbled surface, and the marinade's glossy texture covers the chicken evenly, creating a rich contrast between the pale meat and the dark sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Whisk Together That Perfect Marinade

Start by combining 1 cup of brown sugar, ¾ cup ketchup, ¾ cup soy sauce, ⅓ cup pineapple juice, 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon freshly minced ginger, and 1 tablespoon minced garlic in a large bowl. Whisk everything together until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the marinade looks glossy and well blended. This sweet, tangy, and savory base is the heart of your Spicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken adventure.

Step 2: Marinate Those Chicken Thighs

Place 4-5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour your freshly made marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is lovingly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it in the fridge for at least 8 hours, but ideally overnight. This waiting time allows all those island flavors to soak deeply into the meat, promising tender, juicy bites every time.

Step 3: Get Your Grill or Skillet Ready

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat or warm up a large skillet over medium-high on the stovetop. Lightly oil the grill grates or skillet surface to prevent the chicken from sticking. This prep ensures those gorgeous caramelized edges and a beautiful sear—exactly what makes Huli Huli chicken so irresistible.

Step 4: Grill or Pan-Fry to Perfection

Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, reserving that marinade for basting or making a sauce. Place the chicken on your hot grill or skillet and cook for about 7-8 minutes per side. You’re looking for that perfect caramelization with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The aroma of caramelized brown sugar mixed with ginger and garlic will have everyone drooling in no time.

Step 5: Simmer the Sauce for Extra Flavor

While the chicken grills, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. This reduction step is key for turning the leftover marinade into a luscious sauce you can brush on or drizzle over your cooked chicken for an extra punch of flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy the Island Vibes

Transfer your beautifully cooked chicken thighs onto a serving platter and brush them with that glossy reduced sauce. Serve immediately alongside your favorite steamed rice, grilled veggies, or a crisp salad. Get ready to be transported to Hawaii with every bite of this sweet, savory, tangy delight!

Top Tip

Making the perfect Spicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is all about embracing the balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors while ensuring your chicken cooks perfectly. Here are some tips I've learned from experience that help bring this dish to life every time.

Marinate Overnight: I’ve found the key to juicy, flavorful chicken is patience. Letting the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 8 hours (preferably overnight) lets all those island flavors really sink in.
Watch the Grill Closely: That brown sugar in the marinade caramelizes quickly, so I make sure to keep a close eye while grilling to avoid burning and getting a bitter taste.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) means perfectly cooked chicken—juicy and safe without overcooking.
Reserve and Reduce Marinade: Don’t throw away that leftover marinade! Boiling and reducing it creates a lovely glaze to brush on before serving for an extra kick of flavor.

How to Serve Spicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

A white bowl on a white marbled surface holds three main parts of a meal arranged side by side. One section has white steamed rice with a soft and fluffy texture. Next to it is golden macaroni salad mixed with small bits of light orange carrot and green herbs, showing a creamy dressing. The third section contains several thick slices of grilled chicken with a shiny, dark brown glaze and some charred edges, showing juicy white inside. A fork rests on the bowl, with its tip touching the macaroni salad. In the background, the edge of a white plate with more grilled chicken pieces is partially visible on a black and white patterned cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

To highlight the beautiful tropical flavors of this Spicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe, fresh garnishes work wonders. Try adding a sprinkle of chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds for a bit of crunch and color. Fresh pineapple chunks or a wedge on the side bring a refreshing, juicy contrast. A handful of chopped cilantro adds a lovely herbal aroma and brightness that complements the marinade’s sweet and tangy notes.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides that let the chicken shine. Steamed white or jasmine rice is a classic to soak up that delicious sauce. Grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus keep it light and add vibrant colors. For a little island flair, try coconut rice or a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Spicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to refrigerate the reduced sauce separately if you have extra.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, cool the chicken completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. It will maintain the best quality for up to 2 months. Remember to label the container with the date so you don’t lose track!

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken gently on the stovetop or in the oven at 325°F (about 160°C) until heated through, around 10-15 minutes. If you have leftover reduced sauce, drizzle it over the chicken while reheating to restore that luscious glaze and boost the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken breasts, but keep in mind they cook faster and can dry out. Reduce the cooking time and check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid overcooking.

How spicy is this Spicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe?

The recipe balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with a gentle warmth, mainly from the ginger and garlic. If you want more heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.

Is it necessary to boil the leftover marinade?

Absolutely. Boiling the reserved marinade is important for food safety because it originally touched raw chicken. Simmering it for 5-7 minutes ensures any harmful bacteria are eliminated and it turns into a delicious basting sauce.

Can I make the marinade gluten free?

Yes! Simply use a gluten free soy sauce or tamari to keep this recipe gluten free without compromising the flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about the way the sweet, tangy, and savory notes come together in this Spicy Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe, evoking sunny island vibes no matter where you are. It’s a recipe that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat — perfect for family dinners or impressing guests with a taste of Hawaii. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing this dish as I do. So fire up your grill or skillet, grab that marinade, and get ready for a deliciously flavorful meal that’s bursting with aloha!