Huli Huli Chicken is like a tropical vacation for your taste buds. Imagine the sweet aroma of grilled chicken infused with a tangy, mouthwatering marinade that transports you straight to a Hawaiian luau. The blend of soy sauce, pineapple, and ginger creates a flavor explosion that dances on your palate, making every bite an absolute delight.
Every time I whip up this dish, I’m reminded of our family barbecue last summer. My uncle tried to impress everyone with his “famous” ribs, but all anyone could talk about was my Huli Huli Chicken. The juicy, tender meat coated in that glorious glaze had everyone coming back for seconds—and thirds! It’s the perfect dish for summer gatherings or cozy nights in when you want to impress without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Huli Huli Chicken comes together quickly and easily, making dinner prep a breeze
- Its delightful sweet and savory flavor profile will leave everyone asking for more
- The vibrant colors of this dish make it a showstopper at any gathering
- Versatile enough for grilling or baking, it’s perfect year-round!
Ingredients for Huli Huli Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Using thighs ensures juicy results, but feel free to swap with breasts if you prefer.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh juice adds brightness; canned works in a pinch if you’re in a hurry.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while still giving you that umami kick.
Brown Sugar: This ingredient brings sweetness and balances the savory flavors beautifully.
Fresh Ginger: Grated ginger adds a zesty warmth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic punch; minced is best for even distribution.
Green Onions: These add color and crunch as a finishing touch; slice them thinly before serving.
For the Sauce:
Ketchup: It might sound odd, but ketchup adds depth and sweetness to the marinade.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Huli Huli Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and ketchup. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least one hour—longer if you can resist temptation!
Step 2: Preheat Your Grill
Get your grill nice and hot! Preheat it to medium-high heat (around 375°F or 190°C). If you’re using charcoal, wait until those coals are glowing red.
Step 3: Prepare for Cooking
Remove the chicken from the marinade (but don’t toss it yet; we’ll use it later). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels—this helps achieve that lovely char on the grill.
Step 4: Grill Away
Place the chicken on the grill grates and cook for about six to eight minutes per side. Brush on some reserved marinade during cooking for extra flavor—but be careful not to let it get too saucy!
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Your chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer because nobody wants to play guessing games with poultry.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer your succulent chicken to plates and garnish with sliced green onions. Drizzle any leftover marinade over top for an added flavor punch!
And there you have it—your very own plate of Huli Huli Chicken! Serve alongside rice or fresh veggies for an unforgettable meal that’ll have everyone raving about your culinary skills. Enjoy every juicy bite!
You Must Know
- This delightful Huli Huli Chicken recipe offers more than just flavor; it transforms your meal prep into a joyful experience
- You can easily tweak the ingredients based on what’s in your pantry
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it a festive centerpiece for any gathering
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve mouthwatering Huli Huli Chicken, marinate the chicken first while preheating your grill or oven. Sear the chicken on high heat to lock in flavors, then finish cooking on lower heat until juicy perfection is reached.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish! Swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp, experiment with tropical fruits like pineapple in your marinade, or add extra spices for a kick that suits your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, gently warm it in the oven or microwave to maintain its juiciness without drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure you let the chicken marinate for at least two hours to absorb all those tasty flavors
- Use fresh ginger for an extra zing that elevates any dish
- Always allow cooked chicken to rest before slicing to keep it moist and tender
Sharing my first Huli Huli Chicken experience brings back memories of a backyard barbecue where everyone asked for seconds—definitely a hit among friends and family!
FAQs :
What is Huli Huli Chicken?
Huli Huli Chicken is a delicious Hawaiian dish known for its sweet and savory flavor. The name “Huli” means “to turn” in Hawaiian, which refers to the grilling technique used in preparing this chicken. Traditionally marinated in a mix of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and pineapple juice, the chicken is grilled until caramelized. This dish is often enjoyed at summer barbecues and family gatherings, bringing a taste of the islands to your table.
How can I make Huli Huli Chicken at home?
Making Huli Huli Chicken at home is simple! Start by marinating chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, ginger, and garlic for at least an hour. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, basting with extra marinade. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety. Serve with rice or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
What are some side dishes that pair well with Huli Huli Chicken?
Huli Huli Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it with coconut rice or jasmine rice to balance the flavors. Grilled corn on the cob adds a sweet crunch, while a fresh salad provides a refreshing contrast. For a tropical touch, try serving it alongside grilled pineapple or coleslaw. These sides enhance the overall dining experience and complement the delicious flavors of the chicken.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken for Huli Huli?
Yes! While traditional Huli Huli Chicken features poultry, you can easily adapt this recipe using other proteins. Pork tenderloin or shrimp work beautifully as alternatives. For vegetarian options, firm tofu absorbs the marinade well and can be grilled to perfection. Adjust cooking times based on the protein you choose to ensure everything is cooked safely and maintains its juicy texture.
Conclusion for Huli Huli Chicken :
Huli Huli Chicken offers a delightful blend of tropical flavors that transport your taste buds to Hawaii. By marinating chicken in a combination of soy sauce, pineapple juice, ginger, and garlic, you create an irresistible dish perfect for grilling season. Pair it with suitable sides like coconut rice or grilled vegetables for a complete meal experience. This recipe not only showcases easy preparation but also guarantees deliciousness that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy making this flavorful dish at home!
Huli Huli Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Huli Huli Chicken is a vibrant Hawaiian dish that captivates your taste buds with its sweet and tangy marinade. Juicy chicken thighs soak in a delightful blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic before being grilled to perfection. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, leaving everyone wanting more. Pair it with rice or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that brings a taste of the tropics to your table.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and ketchup. Add chicken thighs and coat well. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least one hour.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F or 190°C).
- Remove chicken from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
- Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, brushing with reserved marinade during cooking for extra flavor.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Serve garnished with sliced green onions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
