🍍 Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack – Sweet, Smoky & Totally Irresistible 🍗🔥

 

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• ½ cup Huli Huli sauce (or homemade version below)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Huli Huli Sauce:

• ½ cup soy sauce
• ½ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp honey or pineapple juice
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For Serving:

• 2 ripe pineapple slices (grilled or sautéed)
• Steamed rice or grilled veggies (for a complete meal)
• Green onions or sesame seeds for garnish

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Huli Huli Sauce

In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, honey, and red pepper flakes. Set aside — use half for marinating and half for brushing while cooking.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Season chicken with salt and pepper, then coat generously with Huli Huli sauce. Let sit for 20–30 minutes at room temperature or overnight in the fridge.

Step 3: Grill or Pan-Sear

Cook chicken on a grill or in a skillet over medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes per side , or until fully cooked and caramelized.

Step 4: Cook the Pineapple

Brush pineapple slices with a bit of extra sauce or oil and grill or sauté for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and slightly charred.

Step 5: Stack & Serve

Layer a chicken breast with a grilled pineapple slice on top. Stack a second chicken piece on top if desired, and drizzle with extra sauce. Serve with rice or your favorite sides.

🧑‍🍳 Chef Tips for Maximum Flavor

• Use boneless, thick-cut chicken for best stacking and texture.
• Don’t skip the pineapple char — it brings out natural sweetness.
• Make extra sauce to use as a dipping sauce or glaze .
• Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or cilantro for extra island flair.
• For a keto or low-sugar version , use coconut aminos and reduce the sugar in the sauce.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Serve over coconut rice or quinoa for a tropical twist.
• Pair with grilled vegetables or a fresh mango salsa.
• Add to lettuce wraps or buns for a handheld version.
• Great with a side of macaroni salad — just like in Hawaii!

🧊 Storage Tips

• Store leftover chicken and pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the crispy edges.
• Freeze uncooked marinated chicken for up to 3 months — thaw and cook as usual.

🌱 Dietary Modifications & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free : Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all additives are GF.
• Vegan Option : Substitute chicken with grilled tofu or chick’n and use pineapple for sweetness.
• Low-Sugar : Use coconut aminos, reduce brown sugar, or substitute with monk fruit.
• Dairy-Free : Naturally dairy-free — just watch for hidden ingredients in sauces.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What does “Huli Huli” mean?

“Huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian — and the name comes from the act of grilling or turning the chicken over the fire.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but thaw completely first for best marination and even cooking.

Can I bake this instead of grill?

Absolutely! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway and brushing with sauce.

🎉 Final Thoughts

The Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack is more than just a meal — it’s a flavor-packed escape to the islands , right from your own kitchen.

With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors , this dish is a hit with kids, adults, and everyone in between.

So go ahead — stack that chicken, drizzle on the sauce, and bring a little tropical joy to your dinner table .