Huli huli chicken is a flavorful Hawaiian dish that brings the taste of the islands right to your backyard. This dish features juicy chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, perfect for grilling. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply craving something delicious, this recipe will surely impress your family and friends. Get ready to savor this delightful dish that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Green onions (for garnish)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, while cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken thigh) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 20g
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Sugar: 8g
This nutritional information is based on a serving size of one chicken thigh.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
3. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
5. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
6. Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting.
7. Place the chicken on the grill, skin side down, and cook for about 10 minutes.
8. Flip the chicken and baste with the reserved marinade.
9. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
10. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option, or use tofu for a vegetarian version. Pineapple juice can be replaced with orange juice for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
Huli huli chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a tropical touch, serve with a side of macaroni salad or coleslaw.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover huli huli chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
– Don’t skip marinating time; it enhances flavor.
– Ensure the grill is preheated before cooking.
– Use a meat thermometer for accurate cooking.
– Avoid reusing marinade without cooking it first.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, add crushed red pepper to the marinade.
– Let the chicken rest after grilling for juiciness.
– Garnish with fresh green onions for presentation.
– Serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping.
FAQs
What is huli huli chicken?
Huli huli chicken is a Hawaiian dish made of chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, typically grilled to perfection. It is known for its delicious flavor and is a popular choice for barbecues and gatherings.
Can I make huli huli chicken in the oven?
Yes, you can bake huli huli chicken in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until fully cooked.
What sides go well with huli huli chicken?
Huli huli chicken pairs well with rice, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing green salad. You can also serve it with Hawaiian-style macaroni salad for a complete meal.
How long should I marinate huli huli chicken?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best. This allows the marinade to penetrate the meat and enhance its taste.
Can I use other meats for huli huli?
Absolutely! While chicken is traditional, you can use pork, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version of huli huli.
Conclusion
Huli huli chicken is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine with its sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy a taste of the islands with every bite!
Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting.
- Place the chicken on the grill, skin side down, and cook for about 10 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and baste with the reserved marinade.
- Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
