Experience the tropical taste of Huli Huli Chicken, a Hawaiian favorite that brings together the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Ideal for barbecues or family dinners, this dish will transport your taste buds to the islands. Marinated in a delicious sauce, the chicken becomes tender and juicy, making it a dish everyone will love.
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 green onions (chopped for garnish)
– Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken thigh with sauce) contains approximately 320 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, and 25g carbohydrates. This nutritional information is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, pineapple juice, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
- Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade.
- Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- In a saucepan, bring the reserved marinade to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Brush the cooked chicken with the thickened marinade during the last few minutes of grilling.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option, or use tofu for a vegetarian version. Other alternatives include using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a healthier sweetener.
Serving and Pairings
Huli Huli Chicken pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a tropical touch, serve with pineapple slices or a coconut coleslaw.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s well-sealed.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to less flavor.
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry; use a meat thermometer.
- Using too much sugar can overpower the dish’s balance.
- Forgetting to reserve some marinade for glazing can be a missed opportunity.
- Grilling on low heat can lead to uneven cooking.
Helpful Tips
- Use a meat mallet to pound chicken for even cooking.
- Experiment with different marinades for diverse flavors.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling to retain juices.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use pork or beef instead of chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats have varying cooking durations.
Is Huli Huli Chicken spicy?
No, this recipe is not spicy. However, you can add chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade if you prefer some heat.
Can I cook this in the oven?
Absolutely! Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the marinated chicken for about 30-35 minutes, basting with the marinade.
What should I serve with Huli Huli Chicken?
It pairs well with rice, grilled vegetables, and tropical salads. You can also serve it with a refreshing drink like coconut water.
How long does the marinade last?
The marinade can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just ensure it’s in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
Huli Huli Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the taste of Hawaii right to your kitchen. With its easy preparation and vibrant flavors, it’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal. Try this recipe and enjoy a taste of the islands!
Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions chopped for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, pineapple juice, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
- Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade.
- Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- In a saucepan, bring the reserved marinade to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Brush the cooked chicken with the thickened marinade during the last few minutes of grilling.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
