Introduction

Huli Huli Chicken is a delicious Hawaiian dish that captures the essence of tropical flavors and grill perfection. With its sweet and savory marinade, this chicken recipe produces juicy, tender meat that is perfect for family dinners or backyard barbecues. The marinade, which includes ingredients like soy sauce, pineapple juice, and ginger, provides a unique taste that pairs beautifully with rice or grilled vegetables.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For the marinade:
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

For the chicken:
– 4 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
– Optional: sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Prep Time

The preparation time for Huli Huli Chicken is approximately 15 minutes. This includes mixing the marinade ingredients and preparing the chicken for marinating.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for Huli Huli Chicken is around 30 minutes, depending on the heat of the grill. The total time, including prep and cook time, comes to about 45 minutes. This recipe yields 4 to 6 servings, making it a great option for feeding a group or family.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a medium-sized bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and ground black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until the brown sugar is dissolved and the marinade is well mixed.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.

Prepare the Grill

Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oil them to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess liquid. Grill the chicken pieces for about 6-8 minutes per side or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Baste with Marinade

During the last few minutes of grilling, baste the chicken with some of the reserved marinade for extra flavor and moisture. Avoid using the marinade that was in contact with the raw chicken unless it has been boiled first.

Rest the Chicken

Once grilled, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.

Serve

Serve the Huli Huli chicken immediately, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds as desired. It can be paired with rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

Storage

Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Chicken Options

You can use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts for more flavor, or boneless cuts for quicker grilling.

Serving Suggestions

Consider serving Huli Huli chicken with steamed rice, grilled pineapple, or a fresh garden salad to complement the flavors.

Variations

Feel free to add spices or adjust the marinade ingredients to suit your taste. Adding chili paste can give it a nice kick.

Cook techniques

Grilling

Marinating the chicken in a flavorful sauce before grilling enhances the taste and keeps the meat tender and juicy.

Marination

Allowing the chicken to marinate for a few hours or overnight helps the flavors penetrate deeply, resulting in a more delicious dish.

Cooking Temperature

Cooking the chicken over medium heat allows it to cook evenly without burning the outside.

Basting

Basting the chicken with the marinade during grilling adds moisture and flavor, creating a delicious glaze on the surface.

Resting

Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used and will provide a richer flavor due to their higher fat content.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

A marination time of at least 1 hour is recommended, but for the best flavor, overnight marination is ideal.

What can I serve with Huli Huli chicken?

Huli Huli chicken pairs well with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes, baking is an option, although grilling will impart a distinct smoky flavor that is characteristic of Huli Huli chicken.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center.

Conclusion

The Huli Huli Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that brings a taste of Hawaii to your table. With its savory and sweet marinade, it’s perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or a simple weeknight dinner. The combination of these vibrant flavors delights the palate, making this recipe a must-try for any chicken lover.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Grilled Pineapple Skewers

Add some grilled pineapple skewers as a refreshing side dish. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the Huli Huli Chicken.

Coconut Rice

Serve your Huli Huli Chicken with a side of coconut rice for a tropical twist. The creaminess of the coconut complements the flavors of the chicken wonderfully.

Asian Slaw

An Asian slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing adds a crunchy texture that balances the moist chicken beautifully.

Teriyaki Tofu

For a vegetarian option, try teriyaki tofu as a flavorful alternative. The rich, umami taste of the teriyaki pairs well with the same grilling techniques used for the chicken.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries offer a crispy side that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken, adding a touch of sweetness to the meal.

Garlic Green Beans

Sautéed garlic green beans provide a vibrant and healthy side dish that enhances the overall meal with their crisp and savory flavor.

Pineapple Fried Rice

For a creative twist, consider serving Huli Huli Chicken with pineapple fried rice, which adds a delightful mix of flavors and textures to your dinner.