Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Craving a dish that combines sweet and savory flavors with a hint of tropical goodness? Huli Huli Chicken is the perfect choice. This Hawaiian classic is known for its tender, juicy chicken marinated in a delectable sauce and grilled to perfection. Follow along for the complete guide, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress.

this Recipes

What is Huli Huli Chicken?

Huli Huli Chicken is a popular Hawaiian dish made by marinating chicken in a sweet and savory sauce, then grilling it to achieve a caramelized glaze. The name "Huli Huli" means "turn turn" in Hawaiian, referring to the traditional method of grilling the chicken on a spit and frequently turning it. This dish is a perfect blend of tropical flavors and is often served with rice and a side of vegetables or salad.

Ingredients List for Huli Huli Chicken

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup pineapple juice
• ¼ cup rice vinegar
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
• Sliced green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish)

Ingredients List for Huli Huli Chicken (continued)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)
• 1 tablespoon water (if using cornstarch)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Substitutions and Variations

Customize your Huli Huli Chicken with these substitutions and variations:

• Chicken Alternatives: Use bone-in chicken pieces like drumsticks or wings for a more traditional presentation.
• Sweeteners: Substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
• Soy Sauce Alternatives: Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
• Juice Variations: Swap pineapple juice with orange juice for a different citrus twist.
• Herbs and Spices: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an additional layer of flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create your Huli Huli Chicken:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, chicken broth, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, Worcestershire sauce, and honey (if using). Mix well until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a 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 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed and hot.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Reserve the marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is nicely charred.
5. Make the Sauce: While the chicken is grilling, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes. If you want to thicken the sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry and stir it into the simmering sauce. Cook until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
6. Baste the Chicken: During the last few minutes of grilling, baste the chicken with the thickened sauce using a brush. Turn the chicken frequently to create a caramelized glaze.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

How to Cook Huli Huli Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this dish involves a few simple steps that ensure your chicken is flavorful, juicy, and perfectly grilled:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours ensures it absorbs all the rich flavors of the sauce.
2. Preheat the Grill: A properly preheated grill ensures even cooking and helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
3. Grill and Baste: Grilling the chicken over medium-high heat and basting it with the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking creates a delicious caramelized glaze.
4. Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Huli Huli Chicken turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Not Marinating Long Enough: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
• Skipping the Basting Step: Basting the chicken with the sauce during the last few minutes of grilling enhances the flavor and helps achieve a caramelized glaze.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Monitor the internal temperature and remove the chicken from the grill as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C) to avoid dry, overcooked meat.
• Using High Heat: Cooking the chicken over high heat can cause it to burn before it’s fully cooked. Stick to medium-high heat for even cooking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation enhances the dining experience. Consider these tips for serving and presenting your Huli Huli Chicken:

• Garnish with Fresh Ingredients: Sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the chicken for a pop of color and added texture.
• Serve with Complementary Sides: Pair the chicken with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
• Use Tropical Elements: Serve the chicken on a platter garnished with pineapple slices and lime wedges for a tropical touch.

How to Serve Huli Huli Chicken

This versatile dish pairs well with various sides. Here are some serving ideas:

• With Steamed Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of steamed white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complement the flavors of the chicken perfectly.
• With a Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the chicken.
• With Pineapple Slices: Fresh pineapple slices add a sweet, tropical flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.

Presentation Ideas for Huli Huli Chicken

Enhance the visual appeal of your dish with these presentation ideas:

• Individual Plates: Arrange a few pieces of chicken on each plate with a generous spoonful of sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
• Family-Style Serving: Present the chicken on a large serving platter, garnished with pineapple slices and lime wedges.
• Layered Presentation: Serve the chicken on a bed of steamed rice, then drizzle with extra sauce and garnish with fresh herbs.

Huli Huli Chicken Recipe Tips

Keep these tips in mind for the best results:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger, garlic, and pineapple juice enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Adjust the Sweetness: Taste the marinade before adding the chicken and adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or brown sugar if desired.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Check the chicken periodically to prevent overcooking, especially if using thinner cuts.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to retain its juices and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken before grilling or freeze cooked leftovers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: What can I use instead of pineapple juice?
A: You can substitute pineapple juice with orange juice for a different citrus flavor.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
A: Yes, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Huli Huli Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors with a touch of tropical goodness. By following the detailed instructions, tips, and variations provided, you can create a meal that's sure to impress. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor the delicious results!

Print