If you have been looking for an easy Hawaiian recipe, this air fryer huli huli chicken recipe is one of my favorites! Serve over rice or serve over salad; you have a great and easy weeknight meal full of delicious flavor! 

Easy enough for anyone who owns an air fryer, and with a few simple ingredients, you have a delicious meal! 

What Is Huli-Huli Chicken

Huli-Huli chicken is a popular Hawaiian dish with grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. The name “Huli-Huli” comes from the Hawaiian word “huli,” which means to turn, as the chicken is traditionally cooked on a grill and rotated or flipped during the cooking process.

The marinade for Huli-Huli chicken typically consists of a combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, ketchup, and other ingredients, which gives the chicken its distinct flavor. The marinade is often brushed onto the chicken as it cooks, producing a delicious caramelized glaze.

Traditionally, Huli-Huli chicken is cooked over an open flame, or fire pit, with the chicken pieces turned or flipped to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning. However, a similar cooking method can also be prepared on a charcoal or gas grill, oven, or even in the air fryer basket. Huli-Huli chicken is known for its flavorful and tender meat, with a slightly sweet and tangy taste from the marinade. It is a popular dish in Hawaiian cuisine and is often served at gatherings, luaus, and barbecue events. It can be enjoyed as a main course or as part of a meal with rice, salad, or other side dishes.​

Why Make This Delicious Hawaiian Chicken Recipe In Air Fryer

Quick and efficient cooking: Air fryers are known for their fast cooking times. They use hot air circulation to cook food rapidly and evenly. Cook this Hawwaiin Huli Chicken in less time!

• Healthier alternative: Air fryers require little to no oil to achieve a crispy and flavorful result. Using an air fryer, you can enjoy the deliciousness of Huli-Huli chicken with reduced fat and calories compared to deep-fried or pan-fried versions. It’s a healthier option while still retaining the tasty flavors.
• Convenient and easy to use: Air fryers are user-friendly and offer convenient cooking options. They often have pre-set cooking functions and timers, allowing you to easily set the desired temperature and cooking time. This means you can set it and forget it, letting the air fryer do the work while you attend to other tasks.
• Consistent results: Air fryers provide consistent heat distribution, resulting in even cooking and browning. With Huli-Huli chicken, you can achieve a perfectly caramelized glaze on the chicken pieces without constant flipping or monitoring.
• Versatility: Air fryers are not just limited to frying. Many models come with grilling and baking functions, allowing you to cook various dishes. Using the air fryer for Huli-Huli chicken, you can achieve a grilled-like flavor and texture without needing an outdoor grill.
• Easy cleanup: Air fryers are generally easier to clean than traditional grilling equipment. Most air fryer baskets or trays are non-stick and dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Huli Huli Chicken

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for years by natives of the Hawaiian Islands, but now it’s gaining popularity everywhere. It tastes amazingly delicious, but you can also make it in an air fryer for a healthier meal!

You only need simple ingredients like chicken thighs and pantry staples like ketchup and soy sauce to make this amazing dish. Read on to learn exactly what ingredients are needed to whip up some flavorful Air Fryer Huli Huli Chicken in no time! All of these ingredients are available at your local grocery store. 

Remember the step-by-step directions below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page and the nutrition facts.​

• Brown Sugar; This will give the huli huli marinade its sweetness. 
• Ketchup: Use regular ketchup
• Soy Sauce: You can use low-sodium soy sauce or regular soy sauce
• Rice Viengar: You can also use apple cider vinegar
• Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic, or garlic powder
• Ginger: Use freshly minced ginger
• Raw Chicken: Use boneless chicken thighs or boneless skinless chicken breasts. Any cuts of chicken will work, although the cooking time will vary, passed on the part of the chicken. 

How To Make Huli Hulu Chicken In Air Fryer

If you’re a fan of delicious island cuisine, Huli Huli Chicken is something you need to try. This Hawaiian-style treat is succulent and savory, making it a highly sought-after dish worldwide. And believe it or not, you can easily make this classic dish in your very own air fryer!

Below we’ll discuss how to make Huli Huli chicken in an air fryer and show you some amazing tips for achieving optimal flavor! So if juicy, mouthwatering morsels are what get your taste buds firing, read on to learn how to prepare these tasty bites easily!

​Step One: Prepare The Chicken Marinade

Use paper towels to dry your chicken. In a small bowl or Ziploc Bag, add the brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic and mix well—reserve about 1/2 cup of the Hawaiian Huli Huli sauce.

Place the chicken in the remaining sauce, and let marinate for 3-6 hours or overnight for best results. 

​Step Two: Air Fry The Chicken

Place the piece of chicken into the air fryer basket and set the cooking time for 10-12 minutes; brush the chicken frequently with the flavorful marinade to keep it juicy. Remove when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F using a meat thermometer or instant read thermometer. 

​Step Three: Serving

Serve with fresh herbs or pineapple chunks.

​Pro Tips For The Best Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

• ​Marinate for optimal flavor: Give the chicken enough time to marinate and absorb the flavors of the Huli-Huli sauce. Ideally, the marinating time is for at least 2-4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.
• Baste frequently: As you air fry the chicken, mix it with the Huli-Huli sauce to infuse the flavors and create a delicious glaze. Reserve some of the marinades for basting during the air frying process.
• Flip and rotate: To ensure even cooking and prevent sticking, flip the chicken pieces occasionally during cooking. I recommend that you flip at the halfway point so both sides get equally cooked.
• Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken without touching the bone. This helps to ensure the chicken is cooked through and juicy.
• Rest before serving: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer basket and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and tender result.
• Garnish and serve: To enhance the presentation and flavor, garnish the Huli-Huli chicken with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro before serving. This adds a pop of freshness and complements the dish nicely.

What Does Huli Huli Chicken Taste Like?

Huli Huli chicken has a distinctive flavor profile: sweet and savory. The marinade and glaze used in Huli Huli chicken typically include ingredients like soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, ketchup, and sometimes pineapple juice or vinegar.

This combination of flavors creates a unique taste experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Huli Huli Chicken​

Can I use boneless chicken for Huli Huli chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken for Huli Huli chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs, in particular, are commonly used for this recipe as they have more flavor and tenderness. However, if preferred, you can use bone-in chicken pieces like drumsticks or chicken breasts.

Can I make Huli Huli chicken without an air fryer?  

You can bake the marinated chicken in the oven or use a stovetop grill pan. Adjust the cooking times and temperatures accordingly for these alternative cooking methods. If you want to prepare this on your grill, you can use mesquite wood to flavor the chicken while it cooks on medium heat. 

How long should I marinate the chicken for Huli Huli chicken?

Marinating the chicken for at least 2-4 hours is recommended to allow the flavors to develop. For optimal flavor, marinating overnight in the refrigerator is even better. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

Can I use store-bought Huli Huli sauce?

You can use store-bought Huli Huli sauce if you prefer a convenient option. However, making your own homemade Huli Huli sauce allows you to adjust the flavors and ingredients to your liking. 

Can I freeze Huli Huli chicken?

Yes, you can freeze Huli Huli chicken. If you have leftovers or want to prepare them ahead of time, let the cooked chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating or enjoying, and discard any leftover marinade. 

Can I use the Huli Huli sauce as a marinade for other meats?

Absolutely! The Huli Huli sauce can be used as a marinade for other meats like pork, beef, or even tofu. It imparts a delicious sweet, and savory flavor to various proteins. Adjust the marinating times according to the specific meat you are using.

Can I make Huli Huli chicken with a different type of sauce?

While the authentic Huli Huli chicken is made with the signature Huli Huli sauce, you can experiment with other sauces or marinades if you prefer. However, remember that the flavors may differ from the traditional Huli Huli chicken recipe.

What side dishes pair well with Huli Huli chicken?

Huli Huli chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include steamed white rice, coconut rice, brown rice, Hawaiian macaroni salad, grilled vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad. These sides complement the flavors of the chicken and create a balanced meal.

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