1-First Step: Prepare the Marinade Mix all the marinade ingredients together in a bowl: 3/4 cup pineapple juice, 1 1/2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger, 1 1/2 tablespoons freshly grated garlic, 1/2 cup tomato ketchup, 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup sherry or substitute, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon chili sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil. Set aside 3/4 cup of this mixture for basting later this ensures you have fresh sauce for that glossy finish without cross-contamination.

2-Second Step: Marinate the Chicken Place 1.5 kg of chicken thighs or breasts in a glass or ceramic container and pour the remaining marinade over it. Make sure every piece is well-coated for maximum flavor absorption. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours, but for the best results, let it sit for 24 to 48 hours your patience will pay off with juicier, more flavorful grilled chicken!

3-Third Step: Preheat Your Cooking Surface Fire up your barbecue to medium-high heat or heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. This step is crucial for getting that perfect sear, so give it about 5 minutes to reach the right temperature around 375-400°F for grilling.

4-Fourth Step: Cook the Chicken Drain the excess marinade from the chicken to avoid flare-ups on the grill. Place the chicken on the barbecue or skillet and cook the first side for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns golden brown. Flip it and cook for another 2 minutes, then start basting generously with the reserved marinade. Flip and baste every minute for about 10 minutes total, checking the internal temperature it should reach 75°C (167°F) for thighs or 65°C (150°F) for breasts to ensure it’s safely cooked through.

5-Fifth Step: Rest and Garnish Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate, loosely cover it with foil, and let it rest for 3 minutes this allows the juices to settle for a more tender bite. Garnish with sliced green onions and grilled pineapple slices if you’re feeling extra tropical. Serve your Huli Huli Chicken with sides like rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress. For more tropical inspiration, check out our Brazilian lemonade recipe to pair with this dish and enhance your backyard BBQ experience!