Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that transports you straight to Hawaii. This dish is ideal for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for something special. With its perfect blend of sweet and tangy teriyaki-like sauce, this chicken will impress your guests and quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have this dish ready without hassle.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, and tangy pineapple juice creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, on a bun, or with grilled veggies for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive barbecue, this chicken fits right in.
• Great Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers delicious the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Huli Huli Chicken Recipe effortlessly, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl or gallon-size Ziploc bag
• Basting brush
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the perfect cooking environment for achieving smoky flavor and ideal char on the chicken.
• Mixing bowl or gallon-size Ziploc bag: Ensures thorough mixing of marinade with easy cleanup.
• Basting brush: Allows you to apply reserved marinade evenly over the chicken for added flavor.
• Meat thermometer: Guarantees that your chicken is cooked to perfection at 165°F.

Ingredients

Huli Huli Chicken is also known as Hawaiian BBQ chicken that is full of seriously amazing flavor and is slathered in a teriyaki-like sauce. It’s the perfect combination of sweet and tangy.

For the Chicken

• 4-5 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

• Pineapple rings – 1 pineapple or 1 can of slices (drained)
• ½ cup sliced green onions (for garnish)

How to Make Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Rinse chicken thighs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large bowl or gallon-size Ziploc bag, combine all marinade ingredients except for the chicken. Mix well.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Remove ½ cup of the marinade mixture and set aside for serving later.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the remaining marinade. Mix well so all pieces are covered.
3. Cover or seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to overnight.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

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

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Place marinated chicken on the heated grill.
2. Cook without moving for about 10 minutes until you see good grill marks.
3. Flip chicken and continue cooking until internal temperature reaches 165°F (approximately another 10 minutes). Discard any remaining marinade used for marinating.

Step 5: Grill Pineapple Rings

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

Step 6: Finish and Serve

1. Remove both chicken and pineapple from the grill.
2. Brush reserved marinade over cooked chicken for extra flavor.
3. Optionally place under broiler for a few minutes to thicken sauce or heat reserved sauce in a small saucepan before brushing over chicken.

Enjoy your delightful Huli Huli Chicken with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Huli Huli Chicken is not just delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes. Here are some perfect serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Fresh Pineapple Slices

• Serve juicy pineapple slices for a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken. The sweetness complements the tangy sauce perfectly.

Coconut Rice

• Fluffy coconut rice adds a creamy texture that balances the flavors of Huli Huli Chicken. It’s simple to make and enhances the tropical vibe.

Coleslaw

• A crunchy coleslaw provides a nice texture and adds a bit of acidity to cut through the richness of the chicken. Use a light vinaigrette for a healthier option.

Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus are colorful additions that bring freshness to your plate. They can be seasoned simply with salt and pepper.

Green Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and avocado offers a light and healthy complement. Drizzle with a citrus vinaigrette for extra zing.

Garlic Bread

• Toasted garlic bread makes for an indulgent side that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the chicken.

How to Perfect Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Huli Huli Chicken, follow these essential tips.

• Marinate longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to penetrate thoroughly.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will enhance the overall taste of your marinade, making it more aromatic.
• Check grill temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat (around 400°F) for even cooking and perfect char.
• Avoid overcooking: Keep an eye on cooking times; use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for juicy chicken.
• Baste generously: Brush the reserved marinade onto the chicken while cooking for added flavor and moisture.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy your Huli Huli Chicken right off the grill while it’s hot for the best taste experience.

Best Side Dishes for Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Huli Huli Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that will complement this flavorful dish.

1. Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad brings comfort and balance, making it a classic Hawaiian addition.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob adds natural sweetness; grill it alongside your chicken for extra flavor.
3. Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad offers a creamy texture that contrasts well with grilled chicken.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh veggies is nutritious and adds a nice crunch to your meal.
5. Fried Rice: A side of fried rice can absorb all those delicious flavors from the chicken while adding substance to your plate.
6. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad provides a refreshing finish that’s perfect after rich barbecue flavors.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These add sweetness and earthiness, balancing out the tangy notes of Huli Huli Chicken.
8. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed in vinegar gives a refreshing bite that complements grilled meats well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Huli Huli Chicken Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you get it just right.

• Skipping the marination time: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Don’t rush this step; aim for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic can significantly enhance the dish’s flavor. Avoid substitutes that might compromise taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken beyond 165°F can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
• Neglecting the reserved sauce: Saving some marinade for later can elevate your dish. Make sure to reserve half before adding it to the chicken.
• Forgetting about grilling technique: Grilling too high may burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Maintain medium-high heat and avoid flipping too soon.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it cools completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

• Place cooked chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place chicken in a baking dish, and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet, add a splash of water or reserved sauce. Heat over medium until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Huli Huli Chicken?

Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian BBQ dish known for its sweet and tangy flavor from a teriyaki-like marinade.

Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, while boneless thighs are preferred, you can also use bone-in pieces or even chicken breasts. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I serve Huli Huli Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, grilled vegetables, or even a fresh salad. You can garnish with sliced green onions for added flavor.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! Marinate your chicken ahead of time and grill just before serving. You can also prepare sides ahead of time for an easy meal.

Final Thoughts

The Huli Huli Chicken Recipe offers a delightful mix of flavors that captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different sides or garnishes. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!