Introduction
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack is a show-stopping Hawaiian dish that combines smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors in a stunning layered presentation. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to create this island-inspired favorite at home: from its rich history and traditional ingredients to step-by-step instructions for marinating, grilling, and assembling your stack. We’ll also share tips on perfect pairings, common mistakes to avoid, and answers to the most frequently asked questions about Huli Huli chicken.
Learn more about our Hawaiian recipe collection for more island flavors to try.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Introduction and Cultural Roots
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack: What It Is and Why It’s Loved
The Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack takes the beloved Huli Huli chicken — traditionally grilled over an open flame and basted with a pineapple-soy glaze — and turns it into a beautiful layered dish. At its core, it features tender marinated chicken stacked with rice, grilled pineapple, and a drizzle of sweet-savory sauce. This creative presentation brings depth, color, and flair to a classic Hawaiian favorite.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack History and Cultural Significance
The story of the Hawaiian 2 Huli Chicken Stack begins with the original Huli Huli chicken, which was first created in the 1950s by Ernest Morgado. The term “huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian, referring to how the chicken is continuously turned on a spit to cook evenly. Over the decades, Huli Huli chicken became a staple of Hawaiian community fundraisers and roadside grills. The stack version builds on this legacy, offering a modern and elegant twist perfect for luaus, dinner parties, and family meals.
Discover great ideas like our article about Hawaii’s food traditions.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 plated stacks 1x
Description
This vibrant Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack features tender, marinated chicken, sticky rice, caramelized pineapple, and a luscious sweet-savory glaze — layered to perfection and full of aloha spirit.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup fresh pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
Optional: 1 tsp sesame oil, pinch of chili flakes
For the Stack:
- 2 cups cooked sticky rice (or jasmine rice)
- 4 slices fresh pineapple (grilled or caramelized)
- Reserved marinade for basting
Garnish: chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, garlic, ginger, and optional ingredients.
- Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish, pour marinade over, seal, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight).
Step 2: Cook the Rice
- Cook sticky rice or jasmine rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken & Pineapple
- Preheat grill (or grill pan) to medium heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade, pat dry slightly, and grill 5–6 minutes per side, basting with reserved marinade, until internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Grill pineapple slices for 2–3 minutes per side until caramelized.
Step 4: Assemble the Stack
- On each plate, place a mound of rice.
- Slice chicken and layer on top of rice.
- Add a grilled pineapple slice on top.
- Drizzle remaining glaze over the stack.
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro if desired.
Notes
✅ Marinate overnight for best flavor.
✅ Use dark meat (thighs) for juicier chicken.
✅ For gluten-free: use tamari instead of soy sauce.
✅ Add extra pineapple on the side for a sweeter presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Hawaiian Recipes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: per serving
- Calories: ~410 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 1100 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Ingredients for the Perfect Flavor
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Essential Ingredients for Authentic Flavor
The Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack shines because of its balance of sweet, salty, and smoky notes. To achieve that authentic flavor, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- Chicken thighs or breasts: Dark meat stays juicier and more flavorful, but lean white meat works well too.
- Huli Huli marinade: Made of soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and ketchup.
- Rice: Short-grain sticky rice or jasmine rice forms the base of the stack.
- Fresh pineapple slices: Grilled or caramelized to add tropical sweetness.
- Green onions & sesame seeds: For garnish and texture.
Using fresh and high-quality ingredients is critical. Bottled sauces can save time but may compromise depth of flavor.
Check out our guide to picking the perfect pineapple for more tips on choosing ripe fruit.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Where to Find Fresh and Quality Ingredients
Finding the best ingredients isn’t hard when you know where to look. Many grocery stores carry pre-cut pineapple and boneless chicken, but for a truly island-inspired dish, visit:
- Local farmers’ markets for ripe pineapples and fresh herbs.
- Asian or Hawaiian specialty stores for authentic soy sauce and rice.
- Butcher shops for better cuts of chicken.
Whenever possible, opt for organic or free-range chicken. Not only is it better for you, but it also delivers more flavor on the plate.
Discover great ideas like our seasonal farmers’ market shopping list.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Marinade Preparation
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Key Components of the Traditional Marinade
The secret to a delicious Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack lies in its unforgettable marinade. This flavorful mixture gives the chicken its signature sweet, smoky, and tangy taste. The classic marinade includes:
- Soy sauce – adds saltiness and depth.
- Pineapple juice – delivers sweetness and helps tenderize the meat.
- Brown sugar – balances the salt and adds a caramelized touch.
- Ketchup – provides acidity and color.
- Fresh ginger & garlic – bring sharp, aromatic notes.
- Optional: a splash of rice vinegar or sesame oil for added complexity.
For the most authentic flavor, avoid substituting pineapple juice with canned alternatives that have added sugar or preservatives.
Don’t miss our guide to mastering marinades for more tips on flavoring meats effectively.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Tips for Marinating for Maximum Flavor
To get the juiciest, most flavorful chicken possible:
- Marinate overnight: While 30 minutes is better than nothing, letting the chicken sit in the marinade overnight infuses it deeply.
- Use a resealable plastic bag: This ensures the marinade coats all sides evenly.
- Keep it cold: Always marinate chicken in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
- Baste during cooking: Reserve a small portion of marinade (not the one used for raw chicken) and brush it over the chicken while it cooks to build layers of flavor.
By taking your time and letting the flavors develop, you’ll transform ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack centerpiece.
Check out our article on safe food preparation to avoid common kitchen mistakes.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Cooking Methods
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Grilling Techniques for Authentic Taste
Cooking the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack on a grill is the most authentic and flavorful method. Here’s how to get that perfect char and smoky aroma:
- Use charcoal if possible: The smokiness from charcoal brings a genuine Hawaiian vibe to your dish.
- Medium heat is key: Too hot, and the sugars in the marinade will burn; too low, and the chicken won’t sear properly.
- Keep turning (“huli huli”): Rotate the chicken every few minutes for even cooking and caramelization.
- Baste frequently: Brush reserved marinade on the chicken each time you turn it to build layers of sticky, flavorful glaze.
- Check for doneness: Internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
You can even grill pineapple slices alongside the chicken for that extra smoky-sweet element.
Check out our grilling mastery tips if you’re new to the barbecue.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Oven-Baked and Stovetop Alternatives
If you don’t have access to a grill, don’t worry — your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack can still turn out delicious using these methods:
- Oven-baked: Place marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil, bake at 400°F for about 25–30 minutes, and broil for the final 3–5 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
- Stovetop: Use a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat; cook chicken on both sides until golden and cooked through, basting often.
These alternatives work great for weeknight dinners when firing up the grill isn’t practical.
Looking for inspiration? Try our one-pan chicken dinners for other easy ideas.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Assembly Guide
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Layering Flavors: Rice, Chicken, Pineapple, and Sauce
Building the perfect Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack is as much about presentation as it is about taste. Here’s how to layer it beautifully and deliciously:
- Start with rice: Spoon a generous mound of sticky white rice or jasmine rice onto the center of the plate to create a stable base.
- Add chicken slices: Arrange slices of grilled Huli Huli chicken on top of the rice, slightly overlapping for visual appeal.
- Top with pineapple: Lay a few grilled pineapple rings or chunks on the chicken for sweetness and color.
- Drizzle sauce: Pour some of the reserved glaze over the stack, letting it run down the sides.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and maybe even cilantro or toasted coconut to finish.
You can serve individual stacks or create a large platter for sharing — either way, the result is stunning and appetizing.
Don’t miss our plating and presentation hacks to impress your guests every time.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Creative Presentation and Garnishes
For a truly memorable presentation:
- Use a ring mold when stacking for a neat, restaurant-quality look.
- Add edible flowers, microgreens, or a wedge of lime on the side.
- Serve on a banana leaf or wooden board for authentic Hawaiian vibes.
Paying attention to how your dish looks can elevate the experience just as much as the flavors do.
Discover great ideas like our Hawaiian party decoration tips for a full themed dinner.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Perfect Pairings and Side Dishes
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack: What to Serve with It
A Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack shines even brighter when paired with complementary sides and drinks. To round out your meal and give it a full luau feel, try these options:
- Macaroni salad: A creamy, chilled pasta salad balances the warm, smoky flavors of the stack.
- Lomi salmon: A fresh, tangy tomato and salmon salad brings acidity to cut through the sweetness.
- Hawaiian sweet rolls: Soft, slightly sweet bread perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
- Grilled vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn on the cob echo the smoky flavors of the chicken.
- Coleslaw with pineapple: A crunchy, tropical twist on the classic slaw.
These sides enhance the flavors without overpowering the dish.
Don’t miss our Hawaiian side dish roundup for more inspiration.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Hawaiian-Inspired Drinks and Desserts
No Hawaiian-inspired meal is complete without something refreshing to sip and something sweet to finish. Here are a few ideas:
- Mai Tai or Blue Hawaiian: Classic tiki cocktails that pair perfectly with grilled flavors.
- Pineapple iced tea or coconut water: Non-alcoholic, light, and refreshing.
- Haupia (coconut pudding): Creamy and rich, this traditional dessert is a perfect end to the meal.
- Shave ice with tropical syrups: Fun, colorful, and cooling — great for kids and adults alike.
Pairing thoughtfully elevates your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack from a dinner to a full experience.
Learn more about Hawaiian drink recipes for your next gathering.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Common Mistakes to Avoid
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Overcooking the Chicken
One of the biggest pitfalls when making a Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack is overcooking the chicken. Because the marinade contains sugars from pineapple juice and brown sugar, it can burn quickly if the heat is too high or if you don’t watch it closely.
Tips to avoid overcooking:
- Cook at medium heat whether grilling, baking, or pan-searing.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness — the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking before slicing to keep it juicy.
If your chicken turns out dry, it’s usually because it was either cooked too long or sliced immediately while still hot.
Check out our guide on cooking juicy chicken every time for more helpful advice.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Choosing the Wrong Cuts or Sauce Ratios
Another common mistake is using the wrong cut of chicken or poorly balanced sauce ratios.
Avoid these errors by:
- Choosing boneless, skinless thighs for maximum flavor and tenderness (though breasts are acceptable if cooked properly).
- Following the marinade recipe closely. Too much pineapple can make the chicken mushy due to the fruit’s enzymes, while too little soy sauce can make the dish bland.
- Reserving a portion of marinade for basting, never reusing the one that touched raw chicken.
By steering clear of these missteps, you’ll ensure your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack is flavorful, juicy, and visually stunning.
Don’t miss our article on kitchen mistakes to avoid to level up your skills.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack — A Heartwarming Story and Final Tips
Chef Adriana’s Heartwarming Story Behind the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack
What makes any Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack truly memorable isn’t just the marinade or the presentation — it’s the love and care layered into every bite. That’s exactly what sets Chef Adriana’s version apart. For her, this dish is more than a recipe. It’s a memory of beachside luaus, family laughter, and warm summer evenings spent under the stars.
Growing up, Adriana spent countless summers visiting her aunt on Maui, where she fell in love with the smell of smoky grills and the sound of “huli huli” as chickens turned over open flames. Her aunt would let her help with the basting — teaching her the secret ratios of pineapple juice, soy, and brown sugar, and the art of turning the chicken just at the right moment.
Years later, as Adriana honed her craft in professional kitchens, she kept this recipe close to her heart. When she created her signature Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack, she wanted to pay homage to her aunt’s teachings while adding her own creative touch — stacking it beautifully with rice and pineapple to wow both the eyes and the palate.
Sharing Her Passion With the World
Today, Chef Adriana brings that same passion and aloha spirit to her audience, showing home cooks everywhere how to craft dishes that feel as special as they taste. Through her work at Epsilon Community Hub, she inspires people to embrace island flavors and share them with loved ones.
On her Facebook page, she posts behind-the-scenes looks at her kitchen, grilling tips, and personal stories of her time in Hawaii. On Pinterest, her boards are filled with creative plating ideas, colorful tropical recipes, and plenty of Hawaiian inspiration.
For Adriana, every time she plates her Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack, she says it feels like bringing a little piece of Hawaii — and her family’s love — to every table. Now, you can carry that tradition into your kitchen too.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
The Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack is more than just a meal — it’s a story you tell on a plate. From its humble beginnings on a spit over an open fire to its elegant stacked presentation, it continues to bring people together.
With its juicy marinated chicken, sweet pineapple, sticky glaze, and beautiful layers, it proves that simple, fresh ingredients can create something magical when prepared with care.
Now that you know how easy it is to make — and how much heart it carries — there’s no reason not to try it yourself. You don’t need fancy tools or hours in the kitchen, just a little love and the confidence to start.
From Chef Adriana’s cherished family memories to the modern creative presentation, this dish remains a crowd-pleaser that everyone at your table will remember. So go ahead — fire up your grill, layer it high, and savor every bite of this island treasure.
FAQ — Answering Common Questions about Huli Huli Chicken.
What pairs with Huli Huli chicken?
The Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack pairs beautifully with classic Hawaiian sides such as macaroni salad, sticky rice, grilled pineapple, and lomi salmon. You can also serve it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even Hawaiian sweet rolls for a more substantial meal.
What is Huli Huli sauce made of?
Huli Huli sauce, the star of the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack, is a sweet and savory marinade and glaze. It’s typically made with soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, garlic, and ginger. Some variations include rice vinegar, sesame oil, or even a splash of hot sauce for heat.
What is the difference between teriyaki and Huli Huli?
While both sauces are sweet and savory, teriyaki is a Japanese sauce that tends to be thicker and uses mirin or sake along with soy sauce and sugar. Huli Huli, on the other hand, is distinctly Hawaiian, lighter in texture, and includes pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
Why is it called Huli Huli chicken?
The word “huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian. Traditionally, the chicken is cooked on a spit over a fire and turned frequently while basting it with sauce. Hence, it became known as Huli Huli chicken — “turn turn” chicken.
Why is it called devil chicken?
In some areas, Huli Huli chicken has been nicknamed “devil chicken” due to its reddish, fiery appearance from the glaze and the smoky char from the grill. However, this nickname is informal and rarely used compared to its Hawaiian name.
What do Hawaiians call chickens?
In Hawaii, chickens are commonly called “moa,” which is the Hawaiian word for chicken. Wild chickens seen roaming the islands are sometimes referred to as “jungle fowl” or simply “wild moa.”
Learn more about Hawaiian food terminology for deeper insight into the language and culture of the islands.