Name: Huli Huli Chicken: Easy Recipe for a Tropical Feast!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 2 (3 pound) chickens each cut into 8 pieces; 1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice; ½ cup soy sauce; ½ cup brown sugar; ⅓ cup ketchup; ¼ cup sherry; 1 (2 inch) piece fresh ginger crushed; 3 cloves garlic crushed; 4 green onions chopped; ¼ teaspoon dry mustard

Are you ready to indulge in the tropical flavors of the Hawaiian islands? Huli Huli Chicken, known for its irresistibly sweet and savory glaze, is a dish that truly captivates the taste buds. This scrumptious preparation involves marinating juicy chicken pieces in a delightful mixture of soy sauce, pineapple juice, and ginger, making it a perfect choice for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners.

Not only does this Hawaiian barbecue chicken stand out with its vibrant flavors, but the grilling process adds a smoky depth that enhances each bite. Whether you’re hosting a luau or simply craving something extraordinary, the charm of Huli Huli Chicken will effortlessly elevate your culinary experience. Get ready to impress your guests with this iconic dish that promises to bring a taste of paradise to your table!

The Origins of Hawaiian BBQ Chicken:

Huli Huli Chicken, a delightful Hawaiian BBQ dish, boasts a rich cultural history that intertwines local traditions and flavors. This dish evolved from early Hawaiian barbecue techniques, where whole chickens were marinated in a special sauce and grilled over an open flame. The term “Huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian, which is a nod to the method of flipping the chicken as it cooks to achieve that perfect caramelization. This iconic recipe typically features a tangy marinade made from soy sauce, ginger, and pineapple juice, reflecting the island’s abundant natural ingredients.

Interestingly, one can draw parallels to other comforting chicken recipes like Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs, where sweet and savory notes converge to create mouthwatering dishes. Huli Huli Chicken stands out for its unique grilling technique and vibrant flavors, making it a favorite at luaus and gatherings. So, whether you’re exploring Hawaiian cuisine or simply craving a new favorite, Huli Huli Chicken is an exceptional choice that brings a taste of paradise to your table.

Ingredients for Huli Huli Chicken:

To create the vibrant flavors of Huli Huli Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

2 (3 pound) chickens, each cut into 8 pieces
1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice
½ cup soy sauce
½ cup brown sugar
⅓ cup ketchup
¼ cup sherry
1 (2 inch) piece fresh ginger, crushed
3 cloves garlic, crushed
4 green onions, chopped
¼ teaspoon dry mustard

This recipe showcases the sweetness paired with savory elements, making it a beloved option. As you prepare the marinade, consider exploring additional chicken recipes, such as Chicken Thighs in Creamy Bacon Mushroom Sauce for variety.

Whether grilled or baked, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of pineapple juice and soy sauce delivers a delightful tang that is hard to resist. Enjoy savoring the flavors of this classic Hawaiian dish!

How to Prepare Huli Huli Chicken:

To prepare the delicious Huli Huli Chicken, start by marinating the chicken pieces. In a bowl, combine 1 cup of unsweetened pineapple juice, ½ cup of soy sauce, ½ cup of brown sugar, ⅓ cup of ketchup, and ¼ cup of sherry. Add the freshly crushed ginger, crushed garlic, chopped green onions, and dry mustard to the mixture. Whisk everything together for a balanced flavor.

Next, place the chicken pieces into a large resealable bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least four hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

Once marinated, preheat your grill on medium heat. Grill the chicken for approximately 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked. Enjoy your meal alongside a refreshing salad or rice! For more delicious chicken ideas, check out this recipe for Creamy Chicken Pot Pie. For detailed cooking tips, you can refer to this Huli Huli Chicken recipe.

Grilling Tips for Perfect Huli Huli Chicken:

To achieve the perfect Huli Huli Chicken, preheating your grill is essential. Start by marinating your chicken, allowing at least four hours, or even overnight, for maximum flavor. Use a combination of soy sauce, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger, which infuses the chicken with that signature Hawaiian taste.

When you’re ready to grill, ensure the cooking surface is well-oiled to prevent sticking. Cook your chicken over medium heat, turning occasionally for even cooking and to achieve those beautiful grill marks. You can baste your chicken with extra marinade towards the end for added moisture and flavor.

For a delightful side, pair your Huli Huli Chicken with a refreshing salad to balance the rich flavors. For instance, check out this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad, which complements grilled chicken beautifully and adds a touch of crunch. Once you take the chicken off the grill, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy the sultry flavors of this Hawaiian classic!

Serving Suggestions for Huli Huli Chicken:

Huli Huli Chicken shines on its own, but pairing it thoughtfully can elevate your meal. For a fresh touch, serve it alongside a vibrant mango salsa. The sweetness of mango balances the savory flavors beautifully. Alternatively, consider crispy garlic asparagus or steamed broccoli for a dash of color and nutrients. These vegetables not only complement the chicken but also add a nutritional boost.

If you’re planning a more elaborate feast, why not include a side of creamy Tuscan chicken pasta? This dish adds a comforting richness that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy notes of Huli Huli Chicken. Additionally, you may wish to serve it on a bed of fragrant jasmine rice or alongside a refreshing salad, such as the delightful cranberry-pecan chicken salad, which introduces crunch and an extra layer of flavor. Your guests will appreciate the harmonious blend of tastes and textures.

Storage Tips for Huli Huli Chicken:

To keep your Huli Huli chicken fresh and flavorful, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to preserve its taste longer, consider freezing it. Place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For a delightful twist, try making chicken pot pie with leftover Huli Huli chicken!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What is Huli Huli Chicken?

Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian dish known for its sweet and savory flavor profile. Traditionally, it features chicken marinated in a combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic, then grilled to perfection. This dish is popular at luaus and backyard barbecues, capturing the essence of tropical flavors.

How long should I marinate Huli Huli Chicken?

To achieve optimal flavor, marinating your Huli Huli Chicken for at least 4 hours is recommended. For even better results, consider marinating it overnight. This allows the chicken to absorb the marinade’s flavors, ensuring a delicious meal.

Can I make Huli Huli Chicken in the oven?

Absolutely! If grilling isn’t an option, you can bake your Huli Huli Chicken in the oven. Simply preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 30-40 minutes, basting with the marinade halfway through to keep it juicy.

What sides pair well with Huli Huli Chicken?

Huli Huli Chicken pairs wonderfully with tropical sides such as coconut rice, grilled pineapple, or a fresh Hawaiian coleslaw. For something heartier, consider serving it alongside creamy macaroni salad or roasted vegetables.

Is Huli Huli Chicken healthy?

While Huli Huli Chicken can be enjoyed in moderation, it is best suited for a balanced diet when paired with healthy sides. The chicken itself is a great source of lean protein, and you can adjust the sugar in the marinade to make it lighter.

Can I use other meats for Huli Huli?

Yes! While chicken is the traditional choice for Huli Huli recipes, you can easily adapt the marinade for other proteins like pork or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Simply adjust the cooking time according to the protein you choose.

For more delightful chicken recipes, check out this inspiring Creamy Chicken Dish.

Huli Huli Chicken: Easy Recipe for a Tropical Feast!

Total Time: 50
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Huli Huli Chicken is a flavorful Hawaiian dish featuring marinated chicken that is grilled to perfection, infused with sweet and savory flavors from pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger.

Ingredients

Scale

2 (3 pound) chickens each cut into 8 pieces

1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice

½ cup soy sauce

½ cup brown sugar

⅓ cup ketchup

¼ cup sherry

1 (2 inch) piece fresh ginger crushed

3 cloves garlic crushed

4 green onions chopped

¼ teaspoon dry mustard

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, sherry, ginger, garlic, green onions, and dry mustard to create the marinade.
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting.
Grill the chicken pieces for about 30 minutes, turning and basting with the reserved marinade until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.