Name: Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 165 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (Choose organic or air-chilled for better flavor.); 0.5 cup low-sodium teriyaki sauce (Adds depth of flavor and sweetness.); 0.33 cup pure pineapple juice (Freshly pressed juice enhances the tropical flavor.); 0.25 cup low-sodium or naturally brewed soy sauce (Coconut aminos can be used for a gluten-free option.); 3 tbsp dark brown sugar (Enhances caramelization.); 2 large garlic cloves, minced (Adds aroma and complexity.); 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger (For a zesty kick.); 1 tsp toasted sesame oil (Adds a nutty aroma.); 4 pieces fresh pineapple rings (Canned rings should be well-drained before use.); 1 cup cooked white rice (Acts as a base for the stack.); 2 tbsp sliced green onions (Adds a fresh crunch.); 1 tsp sesame seeds (Provides texture and appeal.)

Amidst the hustle of life, we sometimes crave a little tropical escape. Enter the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack, where tender, teriyaki-marinated chicken meets perfectly caramelized pineapple for a delightful dish that transports you straight to an island paradise. This recipe is a dream for those busy weeknights, taking just a short time to prepare while still impressing the family with its vibrant presentation. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and hearty meal that feels like a special occasion. With juicy chicken and sweet pineapple layered over fluffy rice, who can resist? Are you ready to elevate your dinner game and indulge in this delicious twist on family favorites?

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together effortlessly, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Tropical Delight: Bursting with vibrant flavors, the sweet and savory combination transports you to a Hawaiian paradise. Elevated Presentation: The beautiful stack of chicken and pineapple is sure to impress guests at your next gathering. Versatile Pairings: Serve it over fluffy rice or toasted buns, or try it with Chicken Bacon Ranch for a delicious variation. Family-Friendly: Everyone will love this tasty treat, turning dinner into a delightful experience. Don’t miss out on enjoying a satisfying meal that feels like a special occasion!

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Ingredients

For the Chicken

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Choose organic or air-chilled for better flavor.
½ cup low-sodium teriyaki sauce – This adds depth of flavor and sweetness; a homemade version works well too.
⅓ cup pure pineapple juice (no sugar added) – Freshly pressed juice enhances the tropical flavor and moisture.
¼ cup low-sodium or naturally brewed soy sauce – Provides salty umami; coconut aminos can be used for a gluten-free option.
3 tbsp dark brown sugar – Sweetens the marinade and enhances caramelization; feel free to swap with white sugar if needed.
2 large garlic cloves, minced – Adds a lovely aroma and complexity to the dish; garlic powder can be a quick substitute.
1 tbsp freshly grated ginger – For a zesty kick; dried ginger is another option but use less since it’s more concentrated.
1 tsp toasted sesame oil – Adds a delightful nutty aroma; canola oil can be a good substitute if necessary.

For the Grilling

4 fresh pineapple rings – Sweet and perfect for grilling; canned rings should be well-drained before use.
Cooked white rice – Acts as a comforting base for the stack; coconut rice can enhance the tropical flavor.

For the Garnish

2 tbsp sliced green onions – Adds a fresh crunch and color to the finished dish.
1 tsp sesame seeds – Provides texture and visual appeal.

Get ready to create a stunning Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack that delights the senses and brings a taste of the tropics right to your dinner table!

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

Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup low-sodium teriyaki sauce, ⅓ cup pure pineapple juice, ¼ cup soy sauce, 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, and 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil until fully combined. This marinade will impart a delicious sweetness and depth of flavor, setting the foundation for your 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 and pour the prepared marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag, ensuring all pieces are coated, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or for the best flavor, overnight. This allows the chicken to absorb the delightful teriyaki mixture, ensuring a juicy, flavorful result.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade for later) and place it on the grill. Grill for approximately 6–7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and shows beautiful char marks, indicating it’s perfectly cooked for the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack.

Step 4: Grill the Pineapple
As the chicken finishes cooking, place 4 fresh pineapple rings on the grill. Grill the rings for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they develop caramelized grill marks and a warm, sweet aroma. The caramelized pineapple will add a lovely sweetness and a hint of smokiness to your dish, complementing the chicken beautifully.

Step 5: Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan, bring the reserved marinade to a boil over medium heat. Let it simmer for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a glossy glaze. This step not only intensifies the flavors of the marinade but also ensures that you have a delightful sauce to drizzle over your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack.

Step 6: Assemble the Stack
Start by placing a generous scoop of cooked white rice on your plate, creating a cozy base for your dish. Layer the grilled chicken pieces atop the rice, then crown them with the caramelized pineapple rings. Finish with a drizzle of the thickened glaze over the stack, and garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This vibrant presentation is sure to impress!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack

Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes and drinks that beautifully complement this tropical-inspired meal.

Coconut Rice: A fragrant twist that enhances the tropical flavor profile and provides a creamy texture. The richness of coconut pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the teriyaki chicken.
Grilled Veggies: Vibrant bell peppers and zucchini lightly charred add color and a smoky touch, balancing the sweetness of the dish. Elevate your plate’s appeal with a colorful medley.
Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, this salad offers a zesty contrast to the rich flavors. The bright notes of vinegar and sesame elevate each bite of the chicken stack.
Fresh Pineapple Salsa: Chopped pineapple, cilantro, and lime add a zingy freshness that pairs wonderfully with the grilled chicken. This vibrant topping brings a burst of flavor and texture.
Maui Brewing Company Coconut Porter: A smooth, slightly sweet beer that complements the smoky flavors of the chicken and the caramelized pineapple. An excellent pairing for a tropical vibe.
Mango Sorbet: A light and refreshing dessert to cleanse your palate after the rich meal. Its sweet tropical notes enhance the overall island experience of your dinner.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stacks are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance to infuse maximum flavor; simply combine the marinade ingredients and let the chicken soak overnight in the fridge. Additionally, you can grill the chicken and pineapple up to 3 days before serving, just be sure to refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their juiciness and sweetness. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious meal, just reheat the chicken and pineapple gently on the grill or in the oven, serve over freshly cooked rice, and drizzle with the prepared glaze for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions for your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack to make it truly your own!

Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or crushed red pepper to the marinade for a fiery taste that elevates the dish. A little heat can complement the sweetness beautifully.
Shrimp or Tofu: Swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a refreshing alternative. Both options absorb the flavors wonderfully and offer unique textures!
Low-Carb Delight: Serve your stack over steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas instead of rice for a healthier, low-carb option. It’s a fantastic way to pack in extra nutrients.
Tropical Twist: Incorporate cilantro and lime juice into your glaze for an extra layer of flavor. These fresh ingredients bright up each bite, enhancing the tropical vibes.
Pineapple Variations: Try using mango or peaches instead of pineapple for a different juicy, grilled sweetness that pairs well with the teriyaki chicken. They add a unique twist to the overall flavor.
Authentic Hawaiian Touch: Add Hawaiian sea salt to the chicken before grilling for a subtle saltiness that pays homage to traditional Hawaiian cooking. It will enhance the overall flavor profile without overpowering.
Coconut Rice: Switch your plain white rice to coconut rice for a complimentary rich, nutty flavor. The creaminess pairs beautifully with the teriyaki chicken and adds an extra layer of tropical goodness!
Savory Scoops: Serve your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack inside toasted buns for a delicious sandwich-style meal. It’s perfect for those casual dinner nights or outdoor gatherings.

These variations not only customize your experience but can also be mixed with other recipes like Chicken Bacon Ranch for fun meal combos. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Expert Tips for the Best Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack

Perfect Marinade Time: Marinate your chicken overnight for maximum flavor absorption; less may lead to a milder taste in your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack.
Check the Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is fully heated before placing the chicken on it. A hot grill gives better char marks and seals in the juices.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the chicken; overcooking will lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for juicy results.
Caramelization Secret: For perfectly caramelized pineapple, avoid moving the rings too soon. Let them sit for a few minutes to develop those gorgeous grill marks.
Balance the Glaze: Taste your glaze after thickening; if it’s too sweet, a splash of soy sauce can add depth and balance to the flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack

Refrigerator: Store any leftover Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken juicy and flavors intact.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the grilled chicken and pineapple separately for up to 3 months. Ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or on a skillet, ensuring the chicken remains moist.

Meal Prep Tip: For easy weeknight dinners, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week before using it with fresh chicken.

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs that are organic or air-chilled for the best flavor and juiciness. Look for plump pieces with a pale, pink hue—avoid any that have dark spots or an unpleasant smell.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain flavor and moisture, make sure to separate the chicken from the rice if you prefer the rice to remain fluffy.

Can this dish be frozen? How?
Absolutely! To freeze the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack, wrap the grilled chicken and caramelized pineapple separately in airtight freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This way, they can last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on a skillet or in the microwave to maintain juiciness.

What if my chicken turns out dry?
Oh no! To avoid dry chicken next time, make sure to keep an eye on the grill temperature and cooking times. Ideally, grill for no more than 6–7 minutes per side, and always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If it’s already cooked but still feels dry, consider adding a bit of the reserved glaze on top before serving or take slices and serve over rice with extra sauce for added moisture.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Very! For gluten-sensitive diets, you can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos to make this dish gluten-free. If you’re cooking for others, ensure to check for food allergies related to soy, sesame, or pineapple. For a lighter version, you can easily swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu, created using the same marinade, making it versatile for various dietary preferences.

How can I enhance the flavor of the dish?
Absolutely! To further elevate the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack, consider marinating the chicken for longer—overnight is ideal. Adding crushed red pepper or sriracha to the marinade will deliver a delightful spicy kick that complements the sweetness beautifully. A touch of freshly squeezed lime juice just before serving can also brighten up the flavors significantly!