Huli Huli Chicken: A Delicious Hawaiian Recipe You Need to Try

Huli Huli Chicken is a delightful dish that transports you straight to the sunny shores of Hawaii with every bite. This mouthwatering recipe features tender, juicy chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, making it a favorite for backyard barbecues and family gatherings. The name “Huli Huli” translates to “turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the traditional method of grilling the chicken over an open flame, where it is turned frequently to achieve that perfect caramelized exterior.

People love Huli Huli Chicken not only for its incredible flavor but also for its convenience. The marinade can be prepared in advance, allowing the chicken to soak up all those delicious flavors, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of sweet pineapple juice, soy sauce, and a hint of ginger creates a symphony of taste that is both refreshing and satisfying. Join me as we explore this beloved Hawaiian dish that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 4 pounds of chicken (legs, thighs, or a whole chicken cut into pieces)
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Fresh pineapple slices (for grilling, optional)

Preparing the Marinade

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, minced ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). 2. Whisk the ingredients together until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the marinade is well combined. This sweet and tangy marinade is what gives Huli Huli Chicken its signature flavor.

Marinating the Chicken

3. Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. 4. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. 5. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.

Preparing for Grilling

6. About 30 minutes before you’re ready to grill, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature. This helps the chicken cook more evenly. 7. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are hot and ashy. For a gas grill, preheat for about 10-15 minutes.

Grilling the Chicken

8. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade to avoid contamination. 9. Place the chicken pieces on the grill, skin side down. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and has nice grill marks. 10. Flip the chicken over and reduce the heat to medium. Continue grilling for another 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). 11. If you’re using fresh pineapple slices, place them on the grill during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Grill until they are caramelized and have nice grill marks.

Basting the Chicken (Optional)

12. If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, you can reserve a small amount of the marinade before adding the chicken. Use this reserved marinade to baste the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling. Just make sure it doesn’t touch the raw chicken to avoid contamination.

Assembling and Serving

13. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist. 14. While the chicken is resting, prepare your serving platter. You can arrange the grilled pineapple slices on the platter for a beautiful presentation. 15. Slice the chicken if desired, and place it on the platter alongside the grilled pineapple. 16. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and added flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Huli Huli Chicken

– **Choosing the Chicken**: I love using a mix of thighs and drumsticks for this recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful. However, you can use any chicken parts you prefer. – **Marinating Time**: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful your chicken will be. If you can, aim for at least 6 hours or overnight. – **Grill Temperature**: Keeping the grill at medium-high heat is crucial for achieving that perfect char without burning the chicken. If you notice flare-ups, move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill. – **Serving Suggestions**: Huli Huli Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with a side of coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.

Storing Leftovers

17. If you have any leftovers, allow the

Conclusion:

In summary, this Huli Huli Chicken recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game and bring a taste of the tropics to their dinner table. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the tender, juicy chicken, creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a family gathering, or simply craving a taste of Hawaii, this recipe will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Huli Huli Chicken with a refreshing side of coconut rice or a vibrant tropical fruit salad to complement the flavors. You can also add a drizzle of extra marinade or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added touch of flair. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a delightful twist that caters to different dietary preferences. I encourage you to give this Huli Huli Chicken recipe a try and experience the joy of creating a dish that transports you to a sunny Hawaiian beach with every bite. Don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family, and let me know how it turned out for you! Your feedback and variations are always welcome, as they inspire others to explore the wonderful world of cooking. Happy grilling!

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