Gluten-Free Huli Huli Chicken Salad

This Huli Huli Chicken Salad is a gluten-free, simple, flavor-packed meal prep favorite that works beautifully hot or cold— Inspired by the sweet and savory Hawaiian classic, this simplified version is cooked all in one pan and served cold or warm — making it ideal for a make-ahead protein packed salad or a quick bowl with rice.

How to Serve Huli Huli Chicken

One of the best things about Huli Huli Chicken is how versatile it is when it comes to serving. The sweet-and-savory glaze pairs beautifully with fresh, slightly bitter greens like arugula, baby kale, or spring mix — making it a perfect protein-packed salad when served chilled or at room temperature. It’s an ideal gluten-free meal-prep lunch that tastes just as good straight from the fridge. 

Craving something warm and comforting? Try it over a bowl of jasmine rice, fluffy quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a satisfying dinner that comes together in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan = easy cleanup
• Gluten-free and dairy-free
• Works hot or cold — ideal for meal prep
• Sweet + savory flavors with a fresh twist
• Kid-friendly, and great for leftovers

Ingredient Substitutions & Tips

Chicken: Use thighs for more flavor, or breasts for leaner protein

Pineapple juice: Fresh is great, but canned (100% juice) works fine

Honey/maple: Adjust sweetness to your taste — Huli Huli traditionally leans sweet

Peppers: Use a mix of red, yellow, or orange for visual appeal and balance

5 Serving Ideas Beyond the Huli Huli Chicken Salad

1. Cold Huli Huli Chicken Lettuce Wraps
2. Stuffed into gluten-free pita or Gluten-Free Naan for a wrap
3. Over soba noodles or rice noodles with sesame dressing (all gluten-free)
4. Tossed cold into a slaw with cabbage and carrots
5. Served as an appetizer on skewers for a potluck or picnic

Pro Tips for the Perfect Huli Huli Chicken Dish

Don’t overcrowd the pan — it’ll steam instead of sear

Let the sauce reduce uncovered so it thickens properly

Don’t overcook the chicken

For cold prep, cool completely before refrigerating to keep peppers crisp

Meal Prep & Storage:

To Store: Cool and divide into 4 airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Serve cold as a salad over greens

To Reheat: Microwave for 1–2 minutes or reheat in a pan over medium heat until hot for a warm option with a side.

To Freeze: Store fully cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Optional Add-ons: Top with pineapple chunks, toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a squeeze lemon.

Love pineapple? Check out these other gluten-free recipes that feature its sweet, tropical flavor.

Baked Hawaiian Chicken with Pineapple

Gluten-Free Coconut Pineapple Cake (Dairy-Free)

Gluten-Free Oatmeal Squares With Pineapple and Coconut 

Island Inspired Pineapple Glazed Roast Chicken

Final Thoughts

This Huli Huli Chicken Salad is bold, wholesome, and easy to customize with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re eating gluten-free, meal prepping, or just craving something vibrant and satisfying, this dish delivers every time.