Huli Huli Chicken

Ever since I first tasted Huli Huli Chicken at a small beachside shack in Hawaii, I’ve been captivated by its sweet and smoky flavor. The combination of grilled chicken thighs marinated in a luscious sauce combines tropical elements like pineapple and a kick of Sriracha for a delightful taste experience. Now, whenever I want to bring a little sunshine to my table, I whip up this recipe. It’s become a go-to for summer barbecues with friends and family, filling the air with the irresistible aroma of grilling chicken. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

Shopping List for Huli Huli Chicken

The ingredients for Huli Huli Chicken are a celebration of tropical flavors and grilled perfection. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious balance that excites the palate. Key players like pineapple juice and soy sauce work hand in hand to provide that signature sweet and savory taste.

• ½ cup pineapple juice – Adds a tropical sweetness and helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.
• ½ cup tomato ketchup – Provides a rich base and depth of flavor to the marinade.
• ½ cup light brown sugar – Enhances sweetness and helps create a caramelized crust on the chicken when grilled.
• ¼ cup soy sauce – Adds saltiness and umami, balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons unseasoned rice vinegar – Offers a slight tanginess that brightens up the overall flavor.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil – Introduces a nutty aroma and rich flavor, enhancing the complexity of the marinade.
• 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha – Adjust to taste for that perfect kick of heat.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the marinade with a wonderful aroma and flavor that complements the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated – Adds warmth and a hint of spice that rounds out the marinade.
• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs – The star of the show, these thighs become incredibly tender and flavorful when grilled.

Making Huli Huli Chicken

Cooking Huli Huli Chicken is as exciting as it is delicious! To start, gather your ingredients and prepare the marinade. It’s important to allow the chicken to marinate, so plan ahead for the best flavor. Once you’re ready to grill, the aroma that fills your kitchen is just the beginning of an amazing meal.

1. Begin by combining all the marinade ingredients: pineapple juice, ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, Sriracha, garlic, and ginger in a large mixing bowl. Whisk gently until the mixture is well-blended and the sugar is dissolved. The aroma of ginger and garlic will be evident, enticing you to get started.
2. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken thighs in a covered container or zip-top bag. Make sure to coat them thoroughly. The marinade will work its magic, infusing the meat with flavor. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but ideally, allow it to sit for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
3. When you’re ready to grill, preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. It’s essential to have the grill hot enough to create those beautiful grill marks and seal in the juices. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking, which is crucial for a perfect cook.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the thighs on the hot grill. Cook for about 3 minutes before flipping them over. You want a nice char; look for a golden-brown color to indicate a good sear.
5. After flipping, grill the chicken for an additional 2 minutes. It’s important to monitor the chicken closely to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. You want to reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.
6. Now it’s time to baste! Use the reserved marinade to brush over the chicken. This step adds a wonderful layer of flavor and moisture. Flip the chicken again after basting, and repeat this process two more times, ensuring the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
7. Once the chicken has reached the proper temperature, remove it from the grill and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and succulent.
8. To serve, slice the chicken if desired and garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. The visual appeal of the dish is incredible, with the grill marks and glaze from the marinade creating an inviting presentation.
9. For an extra treat, consider grilling some pineapple slices alongside the chicken or serving with a refreshing pineapple salsa for a delightful tropical twist. Fresh lime wedges are also a fantastic addition to brighten the flavors.

Helpful Notes about Huli Huli Chicken

Having a few extra tips can make your cooking experience smoother and the outcome even better. Here are some essential notes to keep in mind while preparing Huli Huli Chicken.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored for up to four days in the refrigerator. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze marinated chicken for up to three months. Just ensure it’s well-sealed to avoid freezer burn.
• Pairing: Consider serving with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Roasted vegetables also complement the dish beautifully.
• Grilling alternative: If you don’t have access to a grill, you can also use a grill pan on your stovetop for a similar effect.
• Flavor variations: Feel free to customize the marinade by adding your favorite spices or herbs, like cilantro or green onions, for an extra layer of flavor.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving Huli Huli Chicken, the options are delightful and varied. This dish shines in a variety of settings, making it versatile for any occasion. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

• A bed of rice: Serve over fluffy jasmine or coconut rice to soak up the delicious marinade flavors.
• Grilled vegetables: Pair with seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a colorful presentation.
• Fresh salads: A crisp cucumber and mango salad balances the sweetness of the chicken and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Pineapple salsa: A fruity pineapple salsa with cilantro and lime complements the dish wonderfully and enhances its tropical feel.
• Perfect for gatherings: Huli Huli Chicken is ideal for summer barbecues, family reunions, or casual dinners, bringing a taste of the tropics to your table.

FAQ

Conclusion

Huli Huli Chicken is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it an unforgettable addition to any meal. The ease of preparation and the delightful flavors make it a recipe you’ll want to share with friends and family. So why not try it tonight? Bring the taste of Hawaii to your kitchen and enjoy a meal that will transport you straight to the islands!

Huli Huli Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Huli Huli Chicken is a sweet and savory delight that will satisfy your cravings. This easy weeknight dinner features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend. It's time to make this delicious recipe tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Hawaiian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup pineapple juice
• ½ cup tomato ketchup
• ½ cup light brown sugar
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons unseasoned rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Outdoor grill or grill pan

Method

 

1. Begin by combining all the marinade ingredients: pineapple juice, ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, Sriracha, garlic, and ginger in a large mixing bowl. Whisk gently until the mixture is well-blended and the sugar is dissolved. The aroma of ginger and garlic will be evident, enticing you to get started.
2. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken thighs in a covered container or zip-top bag. Make sure to coat them thoroughly. The marinade will work its magic, infusing the meat with flavor. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but ideally, allow it to sit for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
3. When you’re ready to grill, preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. It's essential to have the grill hot enough to create those beautiful grill marks and seal in the juices. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking, which is crucial for a perfect cook.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the thighs on the hot grill. Cook for about 3 minutes before flipping them over. You want a nice char; look for a golden-brown color to indicate a good sear.
5. After flipping, grill the chicken for an additional 2 minutes. It’s important to monitor the chicken closely to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. You want to reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.
6. Now it’s time to baste! Use the reserved marinade to brush over the chicken. This step adds a wonderful layer of flavor and moisture. Flip the chicken again after basting, and repeat this process two more times, ensuring the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
7. Once the chicken has reached the proper temperature, remove it from the grill and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and succulent.
8. To serve, slice the chicken if desired and garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. The visual appeal of the dish is incredible, with the grill marks and glaze from the marinade creating an inviting presentation.
9. For an extra treat, consider grilling some pineapple slices alongside the chicken or serving with a refreshing pineapple salsa for a delightful tropical twist. Fresh lime wedges are also a fantastic addition to brighten the flavors.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored for up to four days in the refrigerator. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to preserve freshness.

You can freeze marinated chicken for up to three months. Just ensure it's well-sealed to avoid freezer burn.

Consider serving with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Roasted vegetables also complement the dish beautifully.

If you don’t have access to a grill, you can also use a grill pan on your stovetop for a similar effect.

Feel free to customize the marinade by adding your favorite spices or herbs, like cilantro or green onions, for an extra layer of flavor.

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