Huli Huli Chicken

Huli Huli Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that brings the tropical flavors of Hawaii right to your grill. This recipe features succulent grilled chicken thighs marinated in a delightful blend of sweet and tangy ingredients. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or any occasion, Huli Huli Chicken is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant taste and aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The marinade combines sweet and savory notes, making each bite unforgettable.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course at parties, or enjoy it on weeknights with sides like rice or salad.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead of time and grill when ready for a quick dinner option.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a BBQ or family dinner, everyone will love this Hawaiian-inspired dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large mixing bowl or gallon-sized Ziploc bag
• Basting brush
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor that makes Huli Huli Chicken special.
• Large mixing bowl or Ziploc bag: Perfect for marinating chicken evenly in the sauce.
• Basting brush: Helps apply the reserved marinade for added flavor just before serving.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked to perfection (165°F).

Ingredients

Huli Huli chicken is a tropical delight, featuring grilled chicken thighs infused with a sweet and tangy marinade that captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine.

For the Chicken

• 4 to 5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs

For the Marinade

• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup ketchup
• ½ cup light soy sauce
• ½ cup pineapple juice (canned)
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste (or minced ginger)
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste (or minced garlic)
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon coarse black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)

For Garnish

• 1 can sliced pineapple rings (drained)
• ½ cup sliced green onions (for garnish)

How to Make Huli Huli Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Rinse chicken leg quarters under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a large bowl or gallon-size Ziploc bag, combine all ingredients except for the chicken.
2. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

1. Remove ½ cup of the sauce mixture and set aside for later.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the remaining marinade. Ensure each piece is submerged well in the mixture.
3. Cover or seal and place in the refrigerator. Marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

1. Heat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
2. Lightly brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

1. Place marinated chicken on the heated grill.
2. Cook without moving for about 10 minutes.
3. Flip chicken pieces over and cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, which should take another 10 minutes.

Step 6: Grill Pineapple Rings

1. When chicken is halfway done cooking, add pineapple rings to the grill.
2. Cook rings until golden on each side.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

1. Remove both chicken and pineapple from grill.
2. Brush reserved marinade over grilled chicken.
3. Optional: Place under broiler for a few minutes to thicken sauce further or heat reserved sauce on stovetop before brushing over chicken.

Enjoy your delicious Huli Huli Chicken!

How to Serve Huli Huli Chicken

Huli Huli chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled zucchini and bell peppers add color and a smoky flavor to your plate.
• Asparagus or corn on the cob are also great for a seasonal touch.

On Rice or Quinoa

• Serve over fluffy jasmine rice for an authentic Hawaiian experience.
• Quinoa offers a nutritious alternative, providing added protein and fiber.

With Fresh Salsa

• A mango salsa enhances the tropical vibe with sweetness and acidity.
• Pineapple salsa complements the dish perfectly, bringing out its fruity notes.

Topped with Green Onions

• Finely sliced green onions can be sprinkled on top for added freshness.
• They also add a mild crunch, balancing the richness of the chicken.

How to Perfect Huli Huli Chicken

Perfecting Huli Huli chicken is all about achieving the right balance of flavors and textures. Here are some essential tips to enhance your cooking technique.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will deliver more vibrant flavors than their powdered counterparts.
• Marinate longer: For deeper flavor penetration, marinate the chicken overnight instead of just 4 hours.
• Monitor grill temperature: Ensure your grill maintains medium-high heat for optimal cooking without drying out the chicken.
• Baste during cooking: Basting with reserved marinade while grilling adds moisture and enhances flavor.
• Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps retain juices for a tender bite.

Best Side Dishes for Huli Huli Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Huli Huli chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some perfect options:

1. Coconut Rice: Soft and creamy coconut rice complements the sweet marinade of the chicken beautifully.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the sweetness of the dish.
3. Macaroni Salad: This classic Hawaiian side offers creaminess that pairs well with grilled flavors.
4. Grilled Pineapple: Caramelized pineapple rings echo the flavors in the chicken for an impressive presentation.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a delightful contrast to the savory chicken.
6. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing rounds out your meal with freshness and crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Huli Huli chicken, there are a few common pitfalls to keep in mind to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Boldly skip the marinating time: Marinating the chicken for at least 4 hours allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. Don’t rush this process; it’s key for delicious results.
• Boldly ignore the grill temperature: Cooking on too high or too low heat can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for medium-high heat (around 400°F) for optimal grilling.
• Boldly use leftover marinade: Never reuse marinade that has touched raw chicken without cooking it first. This can lead to foodborne illnesses; always reserve some for serving.
• Boldly forget about the internal temperature: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy and safety.
• Boldly overlook garnishes: Garnishing with green onions adds flavor and color. Don’t skip this step; it enhances both presentation and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Huli Huli chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing Huli Huli Chicken

• Freeze cooked chicken in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates so you can keep track of freshness.

Reheating Huli Huli Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil to retain moisture, heating until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes).
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warm, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or reserved marinade to keep it juicy, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Huli Huli Chicken?

Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian dish made from grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, often served with pineapple.

How long should I marinate Huli Huli Chicken?

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible. This enhances the flavor significantly.

Can I customize the marinade for Huli Huli Chicken?

Yes! Feel free to adjust ingredients like adding more ginger or using different types of vinegar. You can also experiment with spice levels.

What sides pair well with Huli Huli Chicken?

Consider serving it with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. These sides complement its tropical flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Huli Huli chicken is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. Its sweet and tangy flavors make it perfect for gatherings or a family dinner. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or sides. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Huli Huli Chicken

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Huli Huli Chicken is a delicious Hawaiian dish that transports your taste buds to a tropical paradise. Featuring juicy grilled chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and tangy blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and spices, this recipe is ideal for summer barbecues or family dinners. The combination of savory flavors and succulent chicken makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it alongside grilled pineapple rings and fresh green onions for a vibrant presentation that will impress your guests. Perfect for meal prep, simply marinate ahead of time and grill when ready. Enjoy this delightful dish that celebrates the essence of Hawaiian cuisine!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 to 5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup ketchup
• ½ cup light soy sauce
• ½ cup pineapple juice
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon coarse black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika

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Instructions

1. Rinse the chicken thighs under cold water and pat dry.
2. In a large bowl or Ziploc bag, mix together light brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, pineapple juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, apple cider vinegar, cumin, black pepper, and paprika until well combined.
3. Reserve ½ cup of marinade for later use. Add chicken thighs to the remaining marinade and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F) and lightly oil the grates.
5. Grill the chicken for about 10 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. During the last few minutes of grilling, add pineapple rings until golden on each side.
7. Brush reserved marinade over the chicken before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 thigh (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 17g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 110mg