As the sun sets on another summer evening, the smell of grilled chicken wafting through the air transports me straight to a Hawaiian luau. There’s just something irresistibly joyful about cooking up a Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack that brings those island vibes right to my backyard. This delightful dish layers juicy grilled chicken marinated in a tantalizing sweet-tangy sauce, all resting atop a bed of fragrant jasmine rice, topped with caramelized pineapple. Not only is this recipe quick and simple to whip up, but it’s also perfect for gatherings, leaving your friends and family craving more. Whether you’re looking to impress at a summer cookout or just need a delicious way to break free from the fast-food routine, this stack has you covered. Are you ready to add a taste of paradise to your dinner table?

Why is Huli Huli Chicken a must-try?

Irresistible Flavors: The balance of tangy pineapple and savory soy sauce creates a flavor explosion that transports you straight to Hawaii.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can enjoy this delicious dish in under 30 minutes.
Versatile Options: Customize your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack by swapping chicken thighs for shrimp or tofu to suit your dietary needs.
Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your guests with a unique, crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to be the highlight of any summer cookout.
Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor, making it a stress-free option for busy days.
Don’t forget to pair this with a refreshing side like Garlic Parmesan Chicken or a light salad for a complete meal!

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Ingredients

• Elevate your summer gathering with these key ingredients!

For the Rice

Jasmine Rice – The aromatic base that holds all the delicious layers together; replace with basmati or brown rice for variations.

For the Chicken & Marinade

Chicken Thighs – Juicy and flavorful, perfect for grilling; consider breasts, but watch the cooking time closely.
Pineapple Juice – Sweetens and tenderizes the chicken; fresh juice brings the best flavor, though store-bought is convenient.
Soy Sauce – Adds depth and saltiness to the marinade; substitute with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Brown Sugar – Balances the salty and sweet notes; feel free to use honey or maple syrup for a natural alternative.
Ginger – Brings a sharp, vibrant flavor; fresh ginger is best, but ground can work in a pinch.
Garlic – Infuses aromatic goodness into the marinade; fresh garlic is ideal, while powdered is a suitable backup.
Rice Vinegar – Complements the marinade with tanginess.
Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty flavor to round out the marinade.

For the Toppings

Pineapple Rings – Caramelizes on the grill and enhances sweetness; use fresh for the best taste.
Green Onions – Provides crunchy freshness when sprinkled on top.
Chili Rings – Adds a spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Sesame Seeds – For a delightful, nutty garnish to finish off your stack beautifully.

With these ingredients, your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack is just a grill away!

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

Step 1: Prepare Jasmine Rice
Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear, removing excess starch. Combine with 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan, bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside while you prepare the rest of the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack.

Step 2: Make Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of pineapple juice, ¼ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup ketchup, 2 teaspoons grated ginger, 3 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon sesame oil until smooth. This sweet-tangy mixture will enhance the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken’s flavor, so pour half of it into a separate container to use for basting later.

Step 3: Marinate Chicken
Place 1.5 pounds of chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld; marinating overnight offers the best results for tender, flavorful chicken.

Step 4: Grill Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any leftover marinade in the bag or dish, and place the chicken thighs on the grill. Grill each side for 5-7 minutes, basting with the reserved marinade during cooking. Look for a nice caramelization and ensure the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).

Step 5: Grill Pineapple Rings
While the chicken is grilling, place fresh pineapple rings on the grill along with the chicken. Grill each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until they become beautifully charred and caramelized. This step adds an extra layer of sweetness to the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack, complementing the flavors perfectly.

Step 6: Assemble Stack
To serve, spoon a generous portion of the fluffy jasmine rice onto each plate. Layer the grilled chicken thighs on top, followed by the caramelized pineapple rings. For a festive touch, garnish with sliced green onions, a sprinkle of chili rings for heat, and a handful of sesame seeds for crunch, finishing off your colorful Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat for a more tender result. To prep ahead, simply whisk together the marinade, coat the chicken, and refrigerate in a sealed bag or container. For the grilled pineapple, slice it and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just grill the marinated chicken and pineapple rings as directed, and assemble your stack on a bed of freshly cooked jasmine rice for a meal that’s just as delicious as if you made everything on the spot!

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Variations

Get ready to personalize your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack with these delightful twists that bring out a symphony of flavors!

Dairy-Free: Swap any creamy dressings with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a zesty kick that complements the dish beautifully.
Vegetarian: Replace chicken thighs with marinated tofu or tempeh for a delicious plant-based option that still delivers on taste.
Heat it Up: Add a minced jalapeño to your marinade for a spicy twist that warms the palette, taking your Huli Huli experience to the next level.
Tropical Twist: Mix in a splash of coconut milk into the marinade for a creamier texture and a hint of tropical coconut flavor that will transport you to the islands.
Seasonal Veggies: Add grilled zucchini or bell peppers to the stack for extra nutrition and a burst of color that enhances both the taste and the aesthetics.
Pineapple Alternative: Use grilled peaches in place of pineapple rings for a unique sweet and savory combination that’s just as delightful.
Umami Boost: Incorporate a tablespoon of miso paste into your marinade for an umami kick that elevates the flavor profile even further.
Rice Variations: Instead of jasmine rice, try using coconut-infused rice or quinoa for a nutritious twist that varies the texture and flavor.

If you’re loving this dish, consider pairing it with Honey BBQ Chicken for a scrumptious meal or take a look at my recipe for Cajun Chicken Alfredo for a different flavor adventure. The options are endless — get creative and enjoy!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack

A tropical feast deserves sides that elevate its vibrant flavors and textures.

Coconut Rice: Creamy and subtly sweet, coconut rice beautifully complements the smokiness of the grilled chicken while enhancing the dish’s tropical essence. It’s a comforting and fragrant base that pairs perfectly.
Spicy Slaw: This crunchy, tangy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and a zesty dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken stack. The heat from the spices invigorates every bite, balancing the sweet and savory notes.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus introduce a wonderful smoky flavor and vibrant colors that brighten the plate. Their slight crunch brings a delightful texture to the meal.
Pineapple Salsa: A zesty mix of diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice adds a fresh kick to the dish, elevating the tropical flair. Its bright flavors will keep your taste buds dancing!
Mango Salad: Sweet and juicy mangoes tossed with lime juice and fresh herbs create a refreshing side that enhances the dish’s island vibes. This salad will transport you straight to paradise with each bite.
Tropical Fruit Platter: A variety of fresh fruits like mango, kiwi, and papaya provides a sweet finish to your meal while cleansing the palate. This colorful addition brightens up your dining table and is a fun way to include seasonal flavors.
Mai Tai Cocktail: This classic tropical cocktail blends rum, lime juice, and orange liqueur for a refreshing sip that enhances the Hawaiian experience. It’s perfect for unwinding on a warm summer evening.

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack

Fridge: Store leftover Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain moisture and flavor, ensuring you can enjoy it later.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the marinated chicken (before grilling) in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Enjoy the delightful flavors once again!

Wrapping: If storing the assembled stack, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn while maintaining that tropical taste.

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack

Marinate Wisely: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor and tenderness; longer is always better!
Avoid Dry Chicken: To keep the chicken juicy, avoid overcooking—monitor grilling time carefully. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Grill with Care: If grilling indoors, use a grill pan or broiler but watch closely to prevent burning; adjust the heat as needed.
Perfect Pineapple: Grill the pineapple rings just until charred, about 2-3 minutes per side. This enhances their sweetness and complements the stack.
Flavorful Garnishes: Enhance your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack with fresh garnishes like sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Store Leftovers: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the chicken’s moisture for future meals.

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe pineapple for grilling?
Absolutely! Look for pineapples that are golden-yellow and give slightly when pressed, indicating ripeness. Avoid any with dark spots or a sour smell. You can also check for fragrant sweetness, which means they’re at their peak!

What’s the best storage method for leftovers?
Very! To keep your delicious Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and ensures each bite remains juicy and enjoyable.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Certainly! To freeze, place the marinated chicken in a resealable bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.

What should I do if my chicken is overcooked?
No worries! If you find your chicken is overcooked and dry, shred it and mix it with a little extra marinade or even some chicken broth to add moisture back. It’s a great way to salvage the flavor!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack can be made gluten-free by substituting regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. If you or your guests have food allergies, always check the labels for any hidden allergens in sauces or marinades.

How long can I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?
For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but if time allows, up to 24 hours will deepen the flavors significantly. Just remember to keep it in the refrigerator while marinating for food safety!