As I watched the sun dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the grill, I couldn’t help but think of all the delicious memories made around a fire. Enter the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack—a dish that transports you straight to an island paradise without ever leaving your backyard. With tender, teriyaki-marinated chicken layered atop fluffy rice and sweet, caramelized pineapple, this recipe isn’t just perfect for family-friendly grilling; it’s also a fantastic way to meal prep and satisfy your tropical cravings. In just a matter of minutes, you can whip up this delightful feast that’s sure to impress both family and friends. Ready to take a culinary trip to Hawaii? Let’s dive in!

Why is Huli Huli Chicken so special?

Tropical Vibes: With its sweet and smoky flavors, this dish brings a taste of the tropics right into your kitchen.
Effortless Prep: Made with simple ingredients and just a few steps, the Huli Huli Chicken Stack is as easy to prepare as it is delicious.
Family-Friendly: Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Versatile Options: Substituting shrimp or pork opens up even more flavor combinations, making it adaptable for every taste bud.
Meal Prep Friendly: Cook in advance for an easy, healthy option throughout the week—just reheat and enjoy!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Impress your guests at gatherings with this delightful dish, making it a favorite for summer cookouts. For more grilled creations, check out my delicious Honey Lime Chicken or Spicy Chicken Sandwich for a flavor-packed experience!

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Ingredients

• Dive into the flavors of Hawaii with these essential ingredients!

For the Chicken Marinade

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs (1.5 lbs) – Choose organic or air-chilled for superior taste.
Low-Sodium Teriyaki Sauce (½ cup) – A sweet and savory base that perfectly infuses the chicken.
Pure Pineapple Juice (⅓ cup, no sugar added) – Amplifies that tropical taste; always opt for unsweetened.
Low-Sodium or Naturally Brewed Soy Sauce (¼ cup) – Elevates the umami experience; use tamari for gluten-free.
Dark Brown Sugar (3 tbsp) – This adds a gentle sweetness; coconut sugar is a great alternative for health-conscious cooks.
Garlic Cloves, minced (2 large) – Fresh garlic boosts the flavor; it’s a staple in many delicious recipes.
Freshly Grated Ginger (1 tbsp) – Gives a zesty kick; ground ginger can work in a pinch but is less vibrant.
Toasted Sesame Oil (1 tsp) – Imparts a lovely nuttiness; regular sesame oil is a handy substitute.

For the Grill

Fresh Pineapple Rings (4) – Perfectly caramelized, these add sweetness and a touch of Hawaiian bliss.
Cooked White Rice – Acts as a satisfying base; try coconut rice for a tropical twist.

For Garnish

Sliced Green Onions (2 tbsp) – A sprinkle of freshness that brightens up the dish.
Sesame Seeds (1 tsp) – Optional but elevates presentation, making your dish pop!

Whether you’re planning a family dinner or just craving the taste of summer, these ingredients will help you whip up a delectable Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack that’ll make your taste buds dance!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack

Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup teriyaki sauce, ⅓ cup pure pineapple juice, ¼ cup soy sauce, 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger, and 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil until fully combined. This fragrant marinade will infuse your chicken with sweet and savory tropical flavors that define the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the chicken to absorb all those delightful flavors fully.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving those beautiful char marks and smoky flavor associated with the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack. Prepare your grilling surface with a light coat of oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken
After marinating, remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and place it on the preheated grill. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and it has nice char marks. This step is essential for cooking the chicken perfectly while keeping it juicy and flavorful.

Step 5: Grill Pineapple
Once the chicken is grilled, add the fresh pineapple rings to the grill. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are caramelized and have those beautiful grill marks. This step enhances the tropical taste of your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack and adds a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.

Step 6: Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan, take the reserved marinade and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Allow it to simmer for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. This glaze will add an extra burst of flavor when served over your finished stack, ensuring each bite is packed with deliciousness.

Step 7: Assemble the Stack
To put together your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack, start with a base layer of cooked white rice on a plate. Layer the grilled chicken on top, followed by a grilled pineapple ring. Drizzle your thickened glaze over the stack to enhance the flavors. Finally, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress.

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack

Marination Matters: Ensure the chicken is flipped intermittently during marinating for even flavor absorption.
Boil the Marinade: Always boil the reserved marinade thoroughly to eliminate any bacteria from raw chicken juices—safety first!
Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding sriracha or crushed red pepper to your marinade for a spicy kick.
Perfectly Grilled Pineapple: Let the pineapple rings grill until golden brown—that caramelization enhances sweetness and flavor significantly.
Food Storage: Store cooked chicken and pineapple separately in airtight containers to maintain their texture and flavor when reheating.

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeping chicken and pineapple separate helps maintain their textures and flavors.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and pineapple in airtight bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet on low to medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist. The Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack can also be microwaved on low power for even heating.

Meal Prep Tip: Prepare chicken and rice in advance. Store separately, and assemble fresh for an easy weeknight meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack ingredients are excellent for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to become more robust. Simply whisk together the marinade, coat the chicken, and refrigerate it covered. The grilled pineapple can also be prepped ahead; just grill it the same day you’re serving to maintain its sweetness and texture. When ready to enjoy, grill the marinated chicken and pineapple as directed, then assemble your stack with cooked rice and glaze. This way, you’ll have a delicious tropical meal ready with minimal effort!

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Variations

Feel free to make this delightful dish your own by trying out these fun variations!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk in the marinade for a creamy, tropical twist that’s completely dairy-free. The addition of coconut brings out that island flavor beautifully.
Gluten-Free: Swap regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing any flavor. It’s a simple switch that opens up the dish for everyone!
Spicier Option: Add sriracha or crushed red pepper to the marinade to kick up the heat. It transforms your Huli Huli Chicken Stack into a spicy sensation that heat lovers will enjoy.
Whole Grain Base: Substitute white rice for quinoa or brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added health benefits. Each bite becomes a tad heartier while providing extra nutrients!
Grilled Veggies: Add grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus on the side for a colorful and nutritious accompaniment. They can also be layered into the stack for added texture and flavor.
Pulled Pork Variation: Swap out the chicken for slow-cooked pulled pork for a rich, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled pineapple. This offers a delicious change for those pork lovers!
BBQ Twist: Use BBQ sauce instead of teriyaki for a finger-licking twist on this classic. It adds a tangy, smoky flavor profile that will thrill your taste buds.

And if you’re looking for more culinary inspiration, don’t miss my delicious Asian Chicken Cranberry recipes that boast incredible taste combinations!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack

Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that complement the tropical essence of this savory dish.

Coconut Rice: Like a soft hug on your plate, fluffy coconut rice enhances the tropical flavors and balances the sweet and savory dynamic of the chicken stack.
Grilled Vegetables: A medley of charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds a smoky flavor, keeping the meal vibrant and colorful.
Fresh Tropical Fruit Salad: Juicy mango, kiwi, and watermelon bring a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish and enhance the Hawaiian vibe.
Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw with a tangy dressing provides a delightful crunch, perfect for cutting through the richness of the grilled chicken.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a crisp texture and a fresh green element, making your plate more visually appealing.
Mai Tai Cocktail: Sip on a fruity Mai Tai for a true Hawaiian experience; its tropical flavors will beautifully complement your meal.
Mango Sorbet: For dessert, a light mango sorbet can cleanse your palate while embracing those tropical flavors, leaving everyone smiling after dinner.

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Choosing organic or air-chilled chicken ensures better quality and flavor. Opting for thighs can yield a juicier result due to their higher fat content.

How do I store leftovers from the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack?
To keep the flavors intact, store your chicken and pineapple separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This method helps maintain their textures and prevents sogginess. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I freeze the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack?
Very! For long-term storage, freeze the cooked chicken and pineapple in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to retain moisture.

What if my chicken turns out dry after grilling?
Don’t worry! If your chicken is dry, it may have been overcooked. The key is to use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the desired internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Also, marinating for longer can help retain moisture. If it happens, you can slice the chicken and serve it with extra glaze or sauce to add moisture back.

Are there any allergies to consider with this recipe?
Absolutely! Since this Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack contains soy sauce, be cautious of anyone allergic to soy. For gluten-free options, use tamari sauce instead. Additionally, if you have allergies to garlic or ginger, consider omitting them or substituting with your preferred alternatives.