There’s something magical about the aroma of grilled chicken wafting through the air, especially when it’s Huli Huli Chicken. This Hawaiian delight is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer barbecue or looking to impress your loved ones with a flavorful dish, this recipe is your go-to. With its sweet and savory marinade, Huli Huli Chicken is a quick solution for busy weeknights or a showstopper for weekend gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Huli Huli Chicken
This Huli Huli Chicken is a game-changer for your grilling repertoire. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without the fuss. The sweet and savory flavors dance on your palate, leaving you craving more. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, ensuring your family and friends will be raving about your grilling skills long after the last bite!
Ingredients for Huli Huli Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Huli Huli Chicken masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are ideal for juicy, flavorful results. You can also use chicken breasts or drumsticks if you prefer.
Soy sauce: This adds a savory depth to the marinade, balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Brown sugar: It brings a rich sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
Ketchup: A surprising addition that enhances the sauce’s flavor and adds a touch of tang.
Rice vinegar: This adds a mild acidity, brightening the overall taste of the marinade.
Sesame oil: A little goes a long way, imparting a nutty flavor that complements the dish.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the marinade with aromatic goodness.
Fresh ginger: Grated ginger adds a zesty kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Black pepper: A staple seasoning that adds a subtle heat.
Red pepper flakes: Optional, but they can give your chicken a nice spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Green onions: Sliced for garnish, they add a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
Sesame seeds: These are perfect for sprinkling on top, adding a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Huli Huli Chicken
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering Huli Huli Chicken. Each step is simple, and I promise the results will be worth it!
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy. Mix until everything is well combined. The aroma will already have you dreaming of that first bite!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Next, take your chicken thighs and place them in the marinade. Make sure each piece is fully coated. This is where the magic happens! Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least two hours, or even better, overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it absorbs. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken is soaking up all that deliciousness, it’s time to preheat your grill. Aim for medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn down until they’re covered with white ash. A hot grill ensures that your chicken gets those beautiful grill marks and cooks evenly.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Once your grill is ready, remove the chicken from the marinade, but don’t toss that marinade just yet! Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. During the last few minutes, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade for extra flavor. Keep an eye on the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial! It allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy. Once rested, garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Your Huli Huli Chicken is now ready to impress!
Tips for Success
Always marinate overnight for the best flavor infusion.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F.
Don’t skip the resting time; it makes a big difference in juiciness.
Experiment with adding pineapple juice to the marinade for a tropical twist.
Keep the grill lid closed while cooking to maintain heat and moisture.
Equipment Needed
Grill: A gas or charcoal grill works well; a grill pan is a great indoor alternative.
Large bowl: For mixing the marinade; any mixing bowl will do.
Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients; a fork can work in a pinch.
Meat thermometer: To check chicken doneness; a simple knife can help cut into the meat.
Brush: For basting; a spoon can also do the trick.
Variations of Huli Huli Chicken
Pineapple Huli Huli Chicken: Add fresh pineapple chunks to the marinade for a sweet, tropical twist.
Spicy Huli Huli Chicken: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for an extra kick.
Teriyaki Style: Substitute half of the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
Grilled Huli Huli Tofu: For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with firm tofu, marinating and grilling it the same way.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the marinade for a fragrant touch.
Serving Suggestions for Huli Huli Chicken
Pair with coconut rice for a tropical vibe that complements the chicken.
Serve alongside grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a colorful plate.
A refreshing cucumber salad adds a crisp contrast to the savory chicken.
Enjoy with a cold beer or a fruity cocktail to enhance the Hawaiian experience.
FAQs about Huli Huli Chicken
What is Huli Huli Chicken?
Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian grilled chicken dish marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. The name “Huli Huli” means “turn turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the way the chicken is flipped on the grill for even cooking.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as breasts may cook faster.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making each bite delicious.
Can I make Huli Huli Chicken in the oven?
Yes! If grilling isn’t an option, you can bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, basting with the marinade halfway through.
What sides pair well with Huli Huli Chicken?
Huli Huli Chicken goes wonderfully with coconut rice, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing cucumber salad. These sides enhance the tropical flavors of the dish!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Huli Huli Chicken is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The sweet and savory flavors transport you to a Hawaiian paradise, even if you’re just in your backyard. Each bite is a celebration, perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The joy of sharing this dish with family and friends is unmatched. Plus, the compliments you’ll receive will make you feel like a grilling pro! So fire up that grill, embrace the flavors, and enjoy the delightful experience that Huli Huli Chicken brings to your table.
Huli Huli Chicken is a delicious Hawaiian grilled chicken dish marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, perfect for summer barbecues.
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
1 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.
Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting.
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, basting with the reserved marinade during the last few minutes of cooking. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
For a smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade or use a smoker for grilling.
Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or drumsticks if preferred, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
