Huli Huli Chicken

Sweet and Tangy Huli Huli Chicken Awaits!

Ever had a dish that transports you straight to the Hawaiian islands with just one bite? Huli Huli Chicken is that golden ticket! This grilled delight is all about a vibrant marinade packed with pineapple sweetness and savory goodness. It’s quick to prep, making it the ultimate go-to for those evenings when you need something fab without all the fuss.

Why Make This Recipe

You’re in for a treat with Huli Huli Chicken. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Easy cleanup: Fire up the grill, and you’re golden. Plus, fewer dishes means more time for you to kick back.
• Family-friendly: Kids love this tropical twist, and trust me, you might have to fight them for the last piece!
• Flavor explosion: Sweet, savory, and with a hint of smoke from the grill — who wouldn’t be drooling already?

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 4 chicken thighs
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions for garnish

Directions

Ready to dive in? Just follow these simple steps:

1. In a bowl, mix together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger to create the marinade.
2. Place the chicken thighs in the marinade and let them soak for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, basting with the marinade until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. In the last few minutes of grilling, add diced pineapple to the grill for caramelization.
7. Serve the Huli Huli chicken hot, garnished with green onions and the caramelized pineapple.

How to Make Huli Huli Chicken (Overview)

Let’s break it down. Whisk together the marinade, soak your chicken, and prepare to grill like a pro. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Mix marinade and let chicken marinate — the longer, the better!
• Fire up that grill, season your chicken, and get ready for some sizzle.
• Do not forget, add those pineapple chunks in for that extra caramelized goodness.

Pro Tip: Don’t skip basting! That marinade is liquid gold; it keeps your chicken juicy and oh-so-flavorful.

How to Serve Huli Huli Chicken

Serving this dish is half the fun! Imagine the colors and crunch: golden-brown chicken paired with vibrant, caramelized pineapple. Add a sprinkle of green onions on top for that pop of freshness.

For sides, consider coconut rice or a zesty salad. The aroma of that grilled chicken practically invites your guests to come to the table!

How to Store Huli Huli Chicken

If you somehow have leftovers (but seriously, good luck!), here’s what to do:

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for about 3 months.
• Reheating: Just pop it in the microwave or a skillet to warm through. Add a splash of pineapple juice for moisture!

Tips to Make Huli Huli Chicken

Want to elevate your Huli Huli game? Check these insider tips:

• Marinate longer: Overnight is ideal for maximum flavor absorption.
• Use chicken breast: If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts work too, but be sure to keep an eye on cooking time!
• Grilling alternative: No grill? Bake in the oven at 400°F for about 30 minutes!

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Switch up the flavors! Try:

• Tropical twist: Add coconut milk to the marinade for a rich, creamy flavor.
• Vegan option: Use tofu or tempeh marinated just like the chicken for a plant-based delight.
• Spice it up: Toss in some chili flakes or Sriracha for those who like it hot!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time since breasts cook faster.

2. How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate it for a few hours or overnight for the best flavor.

3. Can I freeze the marinade?
Yes, just make sure to keep it sealed in an airtight container. It should last about 3 months!

4. How should I reheat leftovers?
Microwave or warm on a skillet with a little extra marinade to keep it juicy.

5. Can I use canned pineapple?
Sure! Just drain it well and use it for grilling.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Huli Huli Chicken

A delicious Hawaiian grilled chicken dish marinated in a sweet and savory sauce with pineapple.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Hawaiian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the marinade

• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For grilling

• 4 pieces chicken thighs Can substitute with chicken breasts.
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced For grilling.
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions for garnish

Instructions

 

Preparation

• In a bowl, mix together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger to create the marinade.
• Place the chicken thighs in the marinade and let them soak for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.

Grilling

• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
• Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and season with salt and pepper.
• Grill chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, basting with the marinade until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• In the last few minutes of grilling, add diced pineapple to the grill for caramelization.
• Serve the Huli Huli chicken hot, garnished with green onions and the caramelized pineapple.

Notes

For serving, consider pairing with coconut rice or a zesty salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Keyword Chicken Marinade, easy dinner, Grilled Chicken, Huli Huli Chicken, Tropical Recipe