Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack: A Sweet & Savory Island Classic

If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly balances sweet, smoky, and savory flavors with a touch of tropical flair, look no further than the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack. This mouthwatering meal layers juicy chicken glazed in a garlicky-sweet Huli Huli sauce over fluffy steamed rice and grilled pineapple rings, creating a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen.

Inspired by the iconic Huli Huli Chicken of Hawaii, this stacked version adds a modern twist, making it visually stunning and perfect for weeknight dinners or summer cookouts. For more tropical-inspired dinners, explore our full collection at rangermt.com.

What Is Huli Huli Chicken?

Huli Huli Chicken originated in Hawaii in the 1950s and gets its name from the Hawaiian word huli, meaning “turn.” The original version involved whole chickens being turned on a grill while being basted in a sweet, soy-based sauce. Today, Huli Huli Chicken is popular across the mainland U.S., especially during backyard BBQ season.

This Huli Huli Chicken Stack builds on that flavor profile and presentation—featuring grilled pineapple, sesame-infused rice, and sticky-sweet chicken.

Want to explore the origins of Huli Huli Chicken? Check out this article from Allrecipes for a traditional take.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tropical Flavor Explosion – A perfect balance of sweet pineapple, salty soy, and aromatic ginger.
Grilled Goodness – Chicken and pineapple are both charred to perfection.
Beautiful Presentation – Stack it high for a show-stopping dinner.
Quick and Easy – Done in about 45 minutes.

You can also check out our quick tropical recipes like Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes for dessert after this satisfying meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack:

For the Chicken and Marinade:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
For the Stack:
- 4–6 pineapple rings (fresh or canned, drained)
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or white rice
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Fresh dill or cilantro for garnish (optional)

How to Make Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, pineapple juice, ketchup, and rice vinegar. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Grill or Sear the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste occasionally with reserved marinade for extra glaze.

Pro Tip: For a deeper char, let the marinade caramelize slightly on the grill. Don’t flip too soon.

Step 3: Grill the Pineapple

Place pineapple rings directly on the grill. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until char marks appear. The natural sugars will caramelize, adding an irresistible sweetness.

Step 4: Prepare the Rice

While the chicken is grilling, cook jasmine or white rice according to package instructions. Stir in a drizzle of sesame oil at the end for added aroma and taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Stack

On each plate, add a mound of rice. Stack 1–2 grilled chicken thighs on top, followed by a grilled pineapple ring. Repeat for double-stack servings. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with fresh dill or cilantro.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is gorgeous on its own, but it also pairs well with:

A crisp cucumber mango salad
Grilled vegetables like zucchini or red bell pepper
Sweet chili dipping sauce on the side
A cold drink like mango iced tea or lime agua fresca

If you’re planning a summer gathering, pair this stack with sides like Allrecipes’ Coconut Rice for even more island vibes.

Recipe: Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack

Description

A tropical layered dish featuring grilled pineapple, sweet-savory chicken, and aromatic sesame rice. Perfect for weeknights or backyard BBQs.

Ingredients

(Full list above—summarized for quick view)

Chicken thighs, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, pineapple juice
Pineapple rings
Jasmine rice
Sesame oil, sesame seeds
Fresh herbs for garnish

‍ Instructions

Marinate chicken in soy, pineapple juice, ginger, garlic, etc.
Grill or pan-sear chicken until caramelized and cooked through.
Grill pineapple slices for charred sweetness.
Cook rice and season with sesame oil.
Stack rice, chicken, and pineapple for layered presentation.

Notes

Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for 3 days.
Reheat: Microwave with a splash of water or steam to restore moisture.
Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken overnight for better flavor.
Swap It: Use chicken breast, tofu, or shrimp as protein alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, just drain well and pat dry before grilling to reduce excess moisture.

Can this be baked instead of grilled?

Absolutely! Bake marinated chicken at 400°F (205°C) for 25–30 minutes. Broil for the last few minutes for caramelization.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and you’re good to go.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Calories: 460
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 980mg

This makes for a satisfying, high-protein meal that tastes indulgent but stays relatively balanced.

Reader Reviews

“The best Huli Huli flavor I’ve had outside Hawaii!” – Monica D.
“That pineapple stack presentation is stunning. Tastes even better!” – Jason L.
“My family devoured it. 10/10 will make again.” – Sarah M.

Explore More Island-Inspired Recipes

Looking to escape to the tropics without leaving your kitchen? Try these:

Honey-Fried Pork Belly – Sweet and sticky with Asian flair
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Spinach and Cheese – Healthy and hearty
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy – Southern-style comfort in a pot
Allrecipes’ Hawaiian Macaroni Salad – Classic side for BBQ chicken

Final Thoughts

The Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Stack is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From the aroma of sesame oil to the sweetness of grilled pineapple and the smoky char of marinated chicken, every bite is like a little island getaway.

Ready to bring a taste of Hawaii to your kitchen?
️ Visit rangermt.com for more tropical recipes, meal ideas, and food inspiration.