Huli Huli Chicken is a delightful Hawaiian dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple and the savory flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy family dinner. It’s easy to prepare and results in tender, juicy chicken that is sure to impress your guests. Get ready to dive into a tropical flavor experience that will transport you straight to the islands!
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Chopped green onions (for garnish)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 chicken thigh with sauce):
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 24g
– Total Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 16g
– Sugars: 10g
This nutritional breakdown is for one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over them.
3. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting.
6. Grill the chicken thighs skin-side down for about 10 minutes, or until nicely browned.
7. Flip the chicken and baste with the reserved marinade.
8. Continue grilling for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
9. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
10. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. Additionally, if you prefer a vegetarian version, tofu can be marinated and grilled using the same marinade, ensuring a flavorful plant-based dish.
Serving and Pairings
Huli Huli chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Hawaiian mac salad or coleslaw.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip marinating the chicken; it enhances flavor and tenderness.
– Avoid cooking on too high heat; it may burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
– Be careful not to overbaste; too much sauce can make the chicken soggy.
– Let the chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy.
– Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, add a splash of rice vinegar to the marinade.
– Use fresh pineapple juice for the best taste.
– Consider adding a touch of honey for additional sweetness.
– If grilling, ensure your grill is clean and preheated for optimal searing.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may require less cooking time and could be less juicy than thighs.
Is Huli Huli chicken spicy?
The dish has a mild spice level due to the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount to your preference.
Can I make this dish in the oven?
Absolutely! Bake the marinated chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes, basting occasionally.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but overnight is preferable for deeper flavor.
What sides pair well with Huli Huli chicken?
It pairs well with rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad. Hawaiian sides like mac salad are also great options.
Conclusion
Huli Huli Chicken is a flavorful dish that embodies the spirit of Hawaiian cuisine. With its sweet and savory marinade, it’s a perfect choice for any gathering, ensuring that your meal is both satisfying and memorable. Enjoy this tropical delight and impress your family and friends with every bite!
Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over them.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting.
- Grill the chicken thighs skin-side down for about 10 minutes, or until nicely browned.
- Flip the chicken and baste with the reserved marinade.
- Continue grilling for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
