Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is a tropical delight that will transport your taste buds straight to the islands! This juicy, marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, infused with a sweet and tangy blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and a hint of ginger. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it the perfect centerpiece for your summer barbecues or family gatherings. Serve it alongside coconut rice and a fresh mango salsa for a truly spectacular meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Get ready to savor the sunshine with this delightful dish!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously sweet and tangy flavor that transports you to the islands.
- Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up any night of the week.
- Grilling brings out the juiciness, creating a mouthwatering experience.
- Perfect for gatherings, impressing friends and family with minimal effort.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and chili flakes to create a delicious marinade.
- Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, getting it nice and hot for that perfect sear.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes on each side, basting with the reserved marinade. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and beautifully caramelized.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with pineapple slices and green onions, then serve and enjoy your tropical feast!
Nutrient
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 20g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Hawaiian |
| Prep Time | 240 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 255 minutes |
| Dietary | Gluten-free option available |
| Serves | 8 |
| Best Served | With grilled pineapple and green onions |
Ingredients
Gather these delicious ingredients for a taste of Hawaii!
- 8 chicken thighs – bone-in, skin-on for maximum juiciness
- 1 cup pineapple juice – fresh or canned for a sweet tropical flavor
- 1/2 cup soy sauce – adds depth and saltiness
- 1/4 cup ketchup – for a hint of sweetness and tang
- 1/4 cup brown sugar – enhances caramelization and sweetness
- 1 tbsp grated ginger – provides a warm, spicy note
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – for aromatic flavor
- 1 tsp sesame oil – adds a nutty richness
- pinch of chili flakes – optional for a touch of heat
- fresh pineapple slices – for grilling and garnish
- chopped green onions – adds freshness and color
How to Make Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken
Get ready for a tropical flavor explosion with this delightful Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken! Follow these simple steps to create a juicy, mouthwatering dish that will transport you straight to the islands.
1. Step
In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and chili flakes to create a delicious marinade.
2. Step
Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Step
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, getting it nice and hot for that perfect sear.
4. Step
Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Step
Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes on each side, basting with the reserved marinade. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and beautifully caramelized.
6. Step
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with pineapple slices and green onions, then serve and enjoy your tropical feast!
Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken
- Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
- Grill on medium heat to achieve that perfect char.
- Use fresh pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Serve with a side of coconut rice for a complete meal.
How to Serve
- Serve with fluffy white rice or coconut rice for a tropical touch.
- Pair with a fresh pineapple salsa for a burst of flavor.
- Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added crunch.
- Enjoy alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Wrap in lettuce leaves for a fun, low-carb option.
- Serve with grilled veggies for a colorful plate.
- Complement with a refreshing fruit smoothie or iced tea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and enjoying your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken later is easy!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow chicken to cool to room temperature.
- Place in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Cool chicken completely before freezing.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Use a microwave for quick reheating, covered, in short intervals.
- Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for Huli Huli Chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add even more juiciness to your dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.
2. What can I use instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option?
You can use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free substitute for soy sauce. Both options will provide a similar umami flavor without the gluten, making your Huli Huli Chicken accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
3. How can I make the marinade spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. You can also include fresh minced ginger or jalapeños for an extra kick that complements the sweetness of the pineapple juice.
4. Can I grill Huli Huli Chicken indoors?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop. Just make sure to preheat the pan and cook the chicken over medium-high heat, turning occasionally to get those beautiful grill marks and ensure even cooking.
5. How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but if you have the time, letting it sit overnight in the refrigerator will enhance the taste even more. Just remember to keep it covered to prevent any contamination.
6. What side dishes pair well with Huli Huli Chicken?
Huli Huli Chicken pairs wonderfully with coconut rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh tropical salad. You can also serve it with coleslaw for a crunchy contrast, or even some sweet potato fries for a delicious twist.
7. Can I bake Huli Huli Chicken instead of grilling it?
Yes, you can bake it! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Basting with the marinade halfway through will keep it moist and flavorful.
8. How do I store leftovers of Huli Huli Chicken?
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
Final Thoughts
Get ready to savor the tropical flavors of Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings a taste of the islands to your table. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll find joy in every bite. So fire up that grill, gather your loved ones, and enjoy this juicy, spectacular treat!