Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is a delightful dish that brings the tropical flavors of Hawaii to your dinner table. This easy-to-make recipe features chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its unique flavors and tender meat.

Why You’ll Love This Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

This Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves grilled chicken with a twist.

• Incredible Flavor: The sweet and savory marinade creates a delicious glaze that enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
• Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a mouthwatering meal in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Great for summer grilling, family gatherings, or weeknight dinners, this recipe fits any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The unique Hawaiian flavors will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Easy Cleanup: Using minimal equipment means less hassle when it’s time to tidy up.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools ensures a smooth cooking experience. Here are some essentials you’ll need to make this Huli Huli Chicken Recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking dish or resealable plastic bag
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on your chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Needed for combining the marinade ingredients efficiently.
• Whisk: Helps blend the marinade smoothly for even coating on the chicken.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches safe internal temperatures while avoiding overcooking.

Ingredients

To create this delectable Huli Huli Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

For the Marinade

• ½ cup (120 ml) ketchup
• ½ cup (120 ml) soy sauce
• ½ cup (99 g) packed dark brown sugar
• ¼ cup (60 ml) unseasoned rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon (16 g) finely grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon (16 g) finely grated garlic
• ½ teaspoon (3 g) kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken

• 3 pounds (1.4 kg) boneless chicken thighs, fat trimmed

For Greasing the Grill

• Vegetable oil

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon (3 g) sliced green onions

How to Make Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Reserve ½ cup of this mixture for basting later. Refrigerate the remaining marinade until ready to use.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour in the marinade and ensure each piece is coated evenly. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill over medium-high heat between 375 to 400ºF (191 to 204ºC). Clean and carefully grease the cooking grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Arrange the marinated chicken on the grill and close the lid. Cook for about 5 minutes before flipping and basting with reserved marinade. Continue grilling covered for another 5 minutes; then flip again and baste every couple of minutes until fully cooked.

Step 5: Check Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches about 165 to 170ºF (74 to 77ºC). If browning too quickly, move it away from direct heat until done.

Step 6: To Serve

Once cooked through, cover the chicken with foil to keep warm. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing or serving. Garnish with sliced green onions for an added touch of freshness.

Enjoy your delicious Huli Huli Chicken!

How to Serve Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Serving Huli Huli chicken is all about enhancing its sweet and savory flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes that complement its rich taste. Here are some creative ways to serve your Huli Huli chicken.

Classic Plate

• Rice – Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious marinade.
• Grilled Vegetables – Add colorful grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and onions for a fresh touch.

Tropical Twist

• Pineapple Salsa – A refreshing mix of diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice brightens the dish.
• Coconut Rice – Cook rice in coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor.

Salads

• Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances the sweetness of the chicken.
• Green Salad – A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast.

How to Perfect Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Perfecting your Huli Huli chicken can elevate your grilling game. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out flavorful and juicy every time.

• Bold Marinade – Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 3 hours or overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
• Preheat the Grill – Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat for proper searing and cooking.
• Baste Often – Use the reserved marinade to baste while grilling, creating a rich glaze on the chicken.
• Watch the Temperature – Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165ºF (74ºC) for safe consumption.
• Rest Before Serving – Let the chicken rest covered in foil for about 5 minutes before slicing; this keeps it juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Huli Huli chicken can enhance your meal experience. These options will complement the flavors perfectly while adding variety to your plate.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn grilled until charred adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with chicken.
2. Hawaiian Macaroni Salad – Creamy and tangy, this classic side brings balance and comfort to your meal.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers freshness.
4. Potato Wedges – Baked or fried potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying crunch alongside your chicken.
5. Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender provides a healthy green option full of flavor.
6. Fruit Salad – A mix of tropical fruits like mango, kiwi, and berries brings sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Huli Huli Chicken can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are key points to help you get it right.

• Skipping the Marinade Time – Not allowing enough time for marinating will result in bland chicken. Aim for at least 3 hours, but overnight is even better for flavor infusion.
• Not Reserving Marinade for Basting – Forgetting to set aside some marinade means missing out on a flavorful glaze. Always save part of the marinade before adding it to the chicken.
• Grilling at Incorrect Temperature – Cooking on too high or too low heat can lead to burnt outsides and raw insides. Preheat your grill to a medium-high setting between 375-400ºF (191-204ºC).
• Neglecting Internal Temperature – Assuming chicken is done without checking can lead to undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165-170ºF (74-77ºC).
• Overcrowding the Grill – Placing too many pieces of chicken at once prevents proper cooking and charring. Grill in batches if necessary to allow even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze Huli Huli Chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Cover the chicken with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 15-30 second increments until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and cover. Heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Huli Huli Chicken?

Serving Huli Huli Chicken with rice or grilled vegetables complements its sweet and savory flavors perfectly.

Can I use different cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! While thighs are recommended for juiciness, chicken breasts or drumsticks work well too with slight adjustments in cooking time.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of this recipe, substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 3 hours, but letting it sit overnight is ideal.

Can I make Huli Huli Chicken on a stovetop?

Yes! You can cook it on a stovetop grill pan if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Huli Huli Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Its sweet and savory marinade makes it perfect for family dinners or summer barbecues. Feel free to customize it with your favorite sides or dipping sauces for an even more enjoyable meal!