Name: Huli Huli Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 4-5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar; 1/2 cup ketchup; 1/2 cup light soy sauce; 1/2 cup canned pineapple juice; 1 tablespoon ginger paste or minced ginger; 1 tablespoon garlic paste or minced garlic; 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika; Pineapple rings (1 pineapple or 1 can of slices, drained); 1/2 cup sliced green onions for garnish

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Huli Huli Chicken

Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian classic that brings a burst of tropical flavors to your table. This dish features succulent chicken soaked in a sweet, tangy marinade, grilled to perfection, and served with caramelized pineapple. The combination of savory, sweet, and fruity flavors makes Huli Huli Chicken a feast for the senses. The beautiful aroma of grilled chicken mingled with the sweetness of pineapple will instantly transport you to a sunny beach in Hawaii, making it an unforgettable meal that’s worth every bit of effort. The best part? It’s a simple recipe that anyone can make at home. This step-by-step guide will ensure that you create a delicious, mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best features of Huli Huli Chicken is its ease of preparation. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen. The recipe calls for basic pantry staples mixed with fresh produce, making it both budget-friendly and family-friendly.

You will also appreciate the time-saving aspect; the chicken marinates while you go about your day, allowing for a quick cook time when you’re ready to eat. Plus, this dish works wonderfully for gatherings or weeknight dinners. You’ll impress your family and friends with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation, proving that great-tasting food doesn’t have to be complicated.

Ingredients for Huli Huli Chicken

4-5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: These juicy cuts of chicken are perfect for grilling, ensuring tenderness and flavor.
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds a sweet note to balance the savory elements of the dish.
1/2 cup ketchup: Provides a rich base for the marinade.
1/2 cup light soy sauce: Infuses the chicken with a salty, umami flavor.
1/2 cup canned pineapple juice: Elevates the tropical vibe and adds sweetness.
1 tablespoon ginger paste or minced ginger: Introduces a zesty kick and warmth.
1 tablespoon garlic paste or minced garlic: Offers an aromatic depth.
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Brings acidity to balance the sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds subtle earthiness.
1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper: Enhances flavor with a touch of heat.
1/2 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika: Delivers a hint of smokiness.
Pineapple rings (1 pineapple or 1 can of slices, drained): Perfect for grilling, adding a caramelized sweetness.
1/2 cup sliced green onions for garnish: Provides a fresh, crisp contrast.

Step-by-Step Directions for Huli Huli Chicken

Begin by rinsing the chicken thighs under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. In a large bowl or a gallon-size zipper bag, combine all the ingredients, except for the chicken and pineapple rings, using a whisk or spoon to mix thoroughly.

Once the marinade is well-combined, remove 1/2 cup of the sauce mixture and set it aside for serving later. To the remaining marinade, add the chicken thighs and ensure every piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate to marinate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

After marinating, preheat your grill to a medium-high heat of around 400°F and lightly oil the grates. Grill the chicken thighs for about 10 minutes per side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Discard the used marinade to avoid contamination.

While the chicken grills, you can add the pineapple rings to the grill, cooking them until they’re golden with lovely grill marks. Once everything is ready, remove both the chicken and the pineapple from the grill. Gently reheat the reserved marinade and brush it over the grilled chicken for an extra layer of flavor before serving.

Tips & Tricks for Huli Huli Chicken

For the best results, consider these chef’s secrets: Always allow your chicken to marinate overnight if possible; the longer it soaks, the more flavor it absorbs. If you’re looking for a little kick, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for some heat.

Feel free to experiment with the marinade by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice can add a refreshing twist. If you don’t have a grill, this recipe can also be adapted for baking or pan-searing, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this incredible dish.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Huli Huli Chicken shines brightest when served with a side of fragrant jasmine rice or fluffy coconut rice, which complements the savory-sweet flavors beautifully. Consider adding a fresh garden salad to add crunch and contrast to the richness of the chicken.

You could also serve this dish with grilled corn on the cob for a complete tropical BBQ experience. For an extra treat, slice some avocado and serve it alongside for creaminess.

Nutritional Information for Huli Huli Chicken

While enjoying Huli Huli Chicken, you can indulge without guilt. A serving typically contains around 250-300 calories, depending on portion size and the cooking methods used. It’s a source of protein, vitamins, and minerals from the chicken and pineapple, making it a nutritious choice for a balanced meal.

By opting for boneless skinless thighs rather than fattier cuts, you can keep the dish leaner without sacrificing flavor.

Storing Tips & Variations for Huli Huli Chicken

Leftovers are a tasty option for later meals. Store any uneaten chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, this dish freezes well; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

When reheating, gently warm the chicken in the oven to retain its juiciness. You can enjoy Huli Huli Chicken in various ways—try it on top of salads, in sandwich form, or even as a filling for tacos, paired with a pineapple salsa.

Conclusion for Huli Huli Chicken

With its delightful balance of flavors, Huli Huli Chicken is not only a crowd-pleaser but also an easy weeknight meal that promises satisfaction. Each bite transports you to a tropical paradise, making it the perfect escape in your own kitchen. Don’t hesitate; gather your ingredients and experience the island vibes right at home today!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but be mindful to avoid overcooking them to prevent dryness.

2. How spicy is Huli Huli Chicken?
This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer it with some heat.

3. How long can I marinate the chicken?
Marinating the chicken for at least 4 hours is ideal, but you can marinate it overnight for the best flavor infusion.

4. Can I cook this in the oven?
Definitely! Bake the marinated chicken in a preheated 375°F oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade.

5. What sides pair well with Huli Huli Chicken?
Jasmine rice, grilled vegetables, or a crisp coleslaw are excellent sides that complement the flavors of Huli Huli Chicken beautifully.

Huli Huli Chicken

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Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 255 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian classic featuring succulent chicken soaked in a sweet, tangy marinade, grilled to perfection, and served with caramelized pineapple.

Instructions

Begin by rinsing the chicken thighs under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels.
Combine all the ingredients, except for the chicken and pineapple rings, in a large bowl or a gallon-size zipper bag using a whisk or spoon to mix thoroughly.
Remove 1/2 cup of the sauce mixture and set it aside for serving later.
Add the chicken thighs to the remaining marinade and ensure every piece is well-coated.
Seal the bag or cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate to marinate for at least 240 minutes, ideally overnight.
Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat of around 400°F and lightly oil the grates.
Grill the chicken thighs for about 10 minutes per side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Discard the used marinade to avoid contamination.
Add the pineapple rings to the grill, cooking them until they’re golden with lovely grill marks.
Remove both the chicken and pineapple from the grill.
Gently reheat the reserved marinade and brush it over the grilled chicken for an extra layer of flavor before serving.