What is a pulehu chicken?

Pulehu chicken is a Hawaiian grilled chicken dish made by marinating chicken (usually thighs) in a savory blend of soy sauce, garlic, citrus, and ginger, then grilling it over direct flame. “Pulehu” means “to broil over hot coals” in Hawaiian, and the dish is known for its smoky, slightly charred flavor and juicy interior.

What is pulehu chicken at Mo’ Bettahs?

At Mo’ Bettahs, pulehu chicken is a signature menu item that follows traditional island flavors grilled, not sauced served over rice and accompanied by mac salad in a plate lunch style. It features a smoky, salty, and slightly tangy marinade, grilled until perfectly crisp on the outside while staying moist and tender inside.

Is pulehu chicken spicy?

No, pulehu chicken is not naturally spicy. It features a savory, garlicky profile with a light citrus note, but no heat unless you choose to add chili flakes or spicy dipping sauces. It's a mild, family-friendly dish, similar in spice level to grilled options like our chicken bell pepper ranch burritos .

Is pulehu chicken healthy?

Yes, pulehu chicken can be a very healthy choice. It's high in protein, low in sugar, and grilled rather than fried. Using skinless chicken thighs or breasts keeps fat content moderate, and the soy-citrus marinade adds flavor without heavy sauces. For even lighter fare, pair it with grilled veggies or a side of slaw instead of starches.

Pulehu Chicken – Hawaiian BBQ Magic in 25 Minutes

Name: Pulehu Chicken Recipe – Easy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless or bone-in); 1/2 cup soy sauce (shoyu style preferred); 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp minced garlic; 1 tsp grated ginger; 2 tbsp lemon or calamansi juice; Sliced green onions or sesame seeds (optional, for garnish); Chili flakes (optional for heat)

Description

Pulehu Chicken is a Hawaiian-style grilled favorite made with a soy-citrus-garlic marinade and cooked directly over flame for juicy, smoky perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless or bone-in)

1/2 cup soy sauce (shoyu style preferred)

1 tbsp brown sugar

1 tbsp minced garlic

1 tsp grated ginger

2 tbsp lemon or calamansi juice

Sliced green onions or sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Chili flakes (optional for heat)

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and citrus juice.

2. Add chicken and coat well. Marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

4. Grill chicken for 6–8 minutes per side until charred and fully cooked.

5. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish as desired.

6. Serve hot with rice, grilled fruit, or slaw.

Notes

Swap soy sauce for low-sodium if needed.

Use skinless chicken for a lighter version.

Great for meal prep – keeps well in fridge or freezer.

Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 15
Category: Main Dish
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
Calories: 240
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 85mg