Huli Huli Chicken is a delicious Hawaiian dish that brings a taste of the islands right to your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or any family gathering. With its sweet and smoky flavor profile, it’s sure to become a favorite for both friends and family alike.
Imagine tender, juicy chicken marinated in a delightful mixture of soy sauce, pineapple juice, and ginger, then grilled to perfection. The aroma that fills your backyard as it cooks will have everyone eagerly waiting to dig in!
This recipe is not just about taste – it’s also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re an experienced grill master or a beginner, you’ll find that this Huli Huli Chicken is simple yet impressive.
Authentic Hawaiian Flavors
Huli Huli Chicken captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine with its unique combination of sweet and savory flavors.
This dish is a delightful way to bring a taste of the islands to your dining table.
The marinade, featuring ingredients like soy sauce and pineapple juice, tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with a vibrant taste.
The Marinade Magic
The marinade is the secret weapon behind this dish’s deliciousness.
A mix of soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and ginger creates a harmonious blend that seeps deep into the chicken.
This not only enhances the flavor but also helps in achieving that desirable caramelized glaze.
Grilling Techniques
Grilling is where the magic happens.
Cooking the chicken over medium-high heat allows for a perfect sear, creating a beautiful char while locking in moisture.
If you choose to grill pineapple slices alongside, they become a delicious accompaniment, enhancing the tropical theme.
Presentation Matters
When it comes to serving Huli Huli Chicken, presentation plays a key role.
A colorful plate garnished with chopped green onions and vibrant pineapple slices makes for an inviting dish.
The rustic wooden table adds a charming touch, creating a warm, tropical atmosphere.
Perfect for Gatherings
This dish is ideal for summer barbecues or family gatherings.
Its appealing flavors and beautiful presentation are sure to impress your guests.
Whether enjoyed outdoors or at a cozy dinner table, Huli Huli Chicken will be a memorable part of any meal.
Tips for Success
To elevate your Huli Huli Chicken experience, marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
Make sure to remove excess marinade before grilling to prevent flare-ups.
And don’t forget to let the chicken rest for a few minutes post-grill to ensure juiciness in every bite.
Authentic Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken
The taste of Huli Huli Chicken is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy, with a hint of smokiness from the grill. The marinade tenderizes the chicken, locking in moisture and flavor, making every bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- Pineapple slices for grilling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using, also prepare pineapple slices for grilling.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken skin-side down for about 6-7 minutes, then flip and grill for another 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Optional Grilling: If desired, grill pineapple slices alongside the chicken for a few minutes until caramelized.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with grilled pineapple slices.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
