Huli Huli Chicken Wings
Juicy grilled chicken wings coated in a sweet and tangy Hawaiian BBQ sauce. The classic marinade of pineapple, soy, and ginger gives these wings an irresistible, caramelized char.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Huli Huli Marinade
- b.In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, low sodium soy sauce, packed brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and toasted sesame oil.
- c.Measure out and pour half of this mixture (about 1 cup) into a separate container. Cover and refrigerate this portion to use as a basting sauce later.
- d.To the remaining marinade in the bowl, add the salt and black pepper and whisk to combine.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Marinate the Chicken Wings
- b.Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere and the skin to get crispy.
- c.Place the dry wings in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the first half of the marinade (the one with salt and pepper) over the wings.
- d.Seal the bag or cover the dish, ensuring the wings are evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to 6 hours for optimal flavor. Do not marinate overnight as the pineapple juice can make the chicken mushy.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare the Grill and Basting Sauce
- b.Preheat your grill to medium heat, aiming for a temperature of 375-400°F (190-200°C). Set up two zones: one for direct heat and one for indirect heat.
- c.While the grill heats, pour the reserved (refrigerated) marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for food safety.
- d.Clean the grill grates thoroughly and lightly oil them using a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil, held with tongs.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Grill the Chicken Wings
- b.Remove the wings from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the used marinade.
- c.Place the wings on the direct heat side of the grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side to get a nice char.
- d.Move the wings to the indirect heat side of the grill. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning them every 5 minutes ('huli' means 'turn' in Hawaiian).
- e.During the final 5 minutes of cooking, generously baste the wings on both sides with the boiled basting sauce.
- f.The wings are done when they are caramelized, cooked through, and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F (74°C).
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Transfer the hot wings to a serving platter and let them rest for 2-3 minutes.
- c.Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
- d.Serve immediately and enjoy.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, marinate the wings for at least 4 hours. However, avoid marinating for more than 8 hours as the acid in the pineapple juice can break down the chicken texture.
- 2Patting the chicken wings dry before marinating is a key step for achieving crispy skin.
- 3Using a two-zone fire (direct and indirect heat) on your grill helps prevent the sugary marinade from burning before the chicken is cooked through.
- 4An instant-read thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
- 5If you don't have a grill, you can bake the wings on a wire rack at 400°F (200°C) for 40-50 minutes, flipping halfway through and basting in the last 10 minutes.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicier
Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Different ProteinDifferent Protein
This versatile marinade works wonderfully with boneless, skinless chicken thighs, pork tenderloin, or even firm tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Baked VersionBaked Version
Instead of grilling, bake the wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 40-50 minutes, flipping halfway. Baste with the sauce during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Chicken wings provide high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining overall body function.
Rich in B Vitamins
Chicken is a great source of niacin (Vitamin B3) and Vitamin B6. These vitamins are crucial for converting food into energy, supporting brain health, and producing red blood cells.
Flavorful Functional Foods
The marinade includes fresh ginger and garlic, which are known for their potential anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, adding health benefits along with their vibrant flavor.
Frequently asked questions
A serving of 5 Huli Huli Chicken Wings contains approximately 380-450 calories, depending on the size of the wings and how much sauce is absorbed. This is an estimate and can vary.