18 Irresistible Huli-Huli Chicken Recipes with a Tropical Twist

recipesforlife

April 3, 2025

When it comes to delicious and tropical flavors, huli-huli chicken is a Hawaiian classic that never fails to impress. The sweet and savory marinade, combined with the smoky flavor from grilling or baking, makes for a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion. From traditional island-style recipes to modern twists with international flair, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 18 huli-huli chicken recipes.

Whether you’re looking for a classic Hawaiian-inspired dish like our slow cooker huli-huli chicken with coconut rice or a bold and spicy option like our huli-huli chicken wings with sriracha drizzle, we’ve got you covered. With flavors ranging from sweet pineapple glaze to tangy mango salsa, these recipes are sure to transport your taste buds to the islands.

In this article, we’ll explore the best of the best in huli-huli chicken recipes, featuring everything from classic grilled skewers to innovative dishes like huli-huli chicken pizza and huli-huli chicken sliders. So grab a plate of poke and get ready to dive into the most delicious and tropical collection of huli-huli chicken recipes you’ll ever see!

Classic Hawaiian Huli-Huli Chicken with Pineapple Glaze

Classic Hawaiian Huli-Huli Chicken with Pineapple Glaze
Discover the sweet and savory flavors of traditional Hawaiian cuisine with this iconic dish, featuring tender chicken smothered in a sticky pineapple glaze. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh pineapple wedges and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh pineapple wedges and sesame seeds, if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Grilled Huli-Huli Chicken Skewers with Bell Peppers

Grilled Huli-Huli Chicken Skewers with Bell Peppers
Experience the sweet and savory flavors of traditional Hawaiian huli-huli chicken, now easily achievable on your grill! This recipe transforms juicy chicken and crunchy bell peppers into a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup huli-huli sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together huli-huli sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken and bell peppers to the marinade; mix well to coat.
4. Thread marinated chicken and bell peppers onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides or as part of a larger meal.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Slow Cooker Huli-Huli Chicken with Coconut Rice

Slow Cooker Huli-Huli Chicken with Coconut Rice
Experience the rich flavors of Hawaiian cuisine with this slow-cooked chicken dish, perfectly paired with creamy coconut rice. This recipe is perfect for a stress-free dinner that’s sure to delight your family and friends.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup huli-huli sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the chicken, huli-huli sauce, onion, and garlic.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About an hour before serving, stir in coconut milk.
5. Prepare the coconut rice according to package instructions.
6. Serve the chicken with the creamy coconut rice.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Huli-Huli Chicken Tacos with Mango Salsa

Huli-Huli Chicken Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the fusion of Hawaiian and Mexican flavors with these Huli-Huli Chicken Tacos served with a sweet and tangy Mango Salsa. This unique combination will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.

Ingredients:

For the chicken:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup huli-huli sauce (or Hawaiian-style BBQ sauce)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano

For the Mango Salsa:

– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together huli-huli sauce, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken with the marinade and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, jalapeño, red onion, and lime juice in a bowl.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by placing grilled chicken, Mango Salsa, and your favorite toppings.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Spicy Huli-Huli Chicken Wings with Sriracha Drizzle

Spicy Huli-Huli Chicken Wings with Sriracha Drizzle
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these succulent chicken wings smothered in a sweet and spicy huli-huli sauce, finished with a tangy Sriracha drizzle.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup huli-huli sauce (see note)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Sriracha sauce, for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together huli-huli sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken wings to the marinade; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Bake wings for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce and 1 tablespoon water. Drizzle over baked wings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Note: Huli-huli sauce can be found in most Asian grocery stores or online. If you can’t find it, make your own by mixing 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder.

Huli-Huli Chicken Pizza with Caramelized Onions

Huli-Huli Chicken Pizza with Caramelized Onions
Savor the flavors of Hawaii with this unique pizza combination featuring huli-huli chicken, caramelized onions, and melted mozzarella.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup huli-huli sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 pizza crust
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add onions and cook for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Meanwhile, preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Brush chicken with huli-huli sauce and cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Roll out pizza crust and top with grilled chicken, caramelized onions, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake in preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Huli-Huli Chicken Salad with Macadamia Nuts

Huli-Huli Chicken Salad with Macadamia Nuts
A flavorful twist on traditional chicken salad, this Hawaiian-inspired recipe combines tender chicken, crunchy macadamia nuts, and a tangy huli-huli sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons huli-huli sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, macadamia nuts, mayonnaise, huli-huli sauce, Dijon mustard, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spoon the salad mixture onto a bed of mixed greens on individual plates or a large serving platter.
4. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Baked Huli-Huli Chicken Thighs with Brown Sugar Glaze

Baked Huli-Huli Chicken Thighs with Brown Sugar Glaze
Baked Huli-Huli Chicken Thighs with Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe

A classic Hawaiian-inspired dish gets a sweet and savory twist with this easy-to-make recipe.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup huli-huli sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together huli-huli sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, ginger, and black pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large baking dish and brush with the glaze mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Huli-Huli Chicken Sliders with Sweet Hawaiian Rolls

Huli-Huli Chicken Sliders with Sweet Hawaiian Rolls
A classic Hawaiian-inspired twist on traditional sliders, featuring tender huli-huli chicken paired with sweet and soft buns.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup huli-huli sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 Hawaiian-style sweet bread rolls
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together huli-huli sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and coat evenly. Let sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, butter the sweet bread rolls on the bottom and top.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a piece of grilled chicken onto each roll, followed by lettuce, tomato, and pickles (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Huli-Huli Chicken Stir-Fry with Pineapple and Peppers

Huli-Huli Chicken Stir-Fry with Pineapple and Peppers
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Hawaii with this easy-to-make Huli-Huli Chicken Stir-Fry. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp huli-huli seasoning (or substitute with a combination of paprika, brown sugar, and salt)
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and huli-huli seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Huli-Huli Chicken Kebabs with Teriyaki Glaze

Huli-Huli Chicken Kebabs with Teriyaki Glaze
Discover the sweet and savory flavors of Hawaii’s iconic huli-huli chicken, elevated to a new level with these easy-to-make kebabs smothered in a rich teriyaki glaze.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup teriyaki glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, sesame oil, and ginger.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Brush with teriyaki glaze during the last minute of grilling.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes

Huli-Huli Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Ginger Sauce

Huli-Huli Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Ginger Sauce
Experience the flavors of Hawaii with this refreshing and savory recipe that combines tender chicken, crispy lettuce, and a tangy ginger sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup huli-huli sauce (see below)
– 8-10 large lettuce leaves
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste

Huli-Huli Sauce:

– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together huli-huli sauce ingredients.
3. Place chicken breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with huli-huli sauce.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare lettuce wraps by slicing red bell pepper and chopping cilantro.
6. Assemble wraps by placing cooked chicken, bell pepper, and cilantro onto lettuce leaves.
7. Serve with additional ginger sauce on the side.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Huli-Huli Chicken and Shrimp Skewers with Citrus Marinade

Huli-Huli Chicken and Shrimp Skewers with Citrus Marinade
Experience the vibrant flavors of Hawaii with this mouthwatering recipe, featuring succulent chicken and shrimp skewers marinated in a zesty citrus blend.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger.
3. Add chicken and shrimp; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Thread marinated pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Huli-Huli Chicken Fried Rice with Scallions

Huli-Huli Chicken Fried Rice with Scallions
A Hawaiian-inspired fusion dish that combines the flavors of grilled chicken, savory fried rice, and crunchy scallions. This recipe is a quick and easy twist on traditional Chinese fried rice.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb cooked chicken (grilled or baked)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 green scallions, chopped
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add mixed frozen vegetables; stir-fry until thawed.
4. Add cooked chicken, breaking it into bite-sized pieces as you go.
5. Stir in cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in chopped scallions; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Huli-Huli Chicken Nachos with Jalapeños and Cheese

Huli-Huli Chicken Nachos with Jalapeños and Cheese
Elevate your nacho game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the sweetness of Huli-Huli chicken with the spiciness of jalapeños and melted cheese. This snack is perfect for game day, movie night, or any casual gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Huli-Huli sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 6-8 jalapeño peppers, sliced
– 1 bag (12-14 ft) tortilla chips
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Huli-Huli sauce and 1 tablespoon water.
3. Add chicken breasts to the mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet, topped with black beans, jalapeños, and shredded cheese.
6. Slice the Huli-Huli chicken into strips and place on top of the nachos.
7. Sprinkle cilantro and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Huli-Huli Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers

Huli-Huli Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this mouthwatering fusion of Hawaiian-inspired flavors and classic stuffed peppers! This recipe combines succulent chicken, savory huli-huli sauce, and crunchy bell peppers for a show-stopping main dish.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed pineapple in syrup
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked rice

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together chicken breasts, crushed pineapple, soy sauce, ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture and top with cooked rice.
4. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Huli-Huli Chicken Flatbread with Avocado Crema

Huli-Huli Chicken Flatbread with Avocado Crema
Take a taste of Hawaii with this sweet and savory Huli-Huli Chicken Flatbread topped with creamy Avocado Crema.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp huli-huli sauce (or your favorite BBQ sauce)
– 1 pre-made flatbread or naan bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken with huli-huli sauce.
3. Place the flatbread on a baking sheet and top with the chicken mixture.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, mix avocado, sour cream, and lime juice in a bowl.
6. Once the flatbread is done, spread the Avocado Crema on top.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve warm.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Huli-Huli Chicken Meatballs with Sweet Chili Sauce

Huli-Huli Chicken Meatballs with Sweet Chili Sauce
Experience the flavors of Hawaii with these juicy chicken meatballs smothered in a sweet and tangy huli-huli sauce. Perfect for appetizers or as a main dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sweet Chili Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat Sweet Chili Sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. Remove the meatballs from the oven and toss with the heated Sweet Chili Sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Summary

Elevate your cooking game with these 18 mouth-watering Huli-Huli chicken recipes, infused with a tropical twist! From classic Hawaiian-style dishes to international-inspired creations, this collection has something for everyone. Discover the flavors of Hawaii with glazes made from pineapple and brown sugar, or spice things up with spicy Sriracha wings. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, pizza, salad, or comfort food, there’s a Huli-Huli chicken recipe here to satisfy your cravings.

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