Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is the perfect dish to impress your friends and family at your next gathering. This Hawaiian-inspired recipe combines sweet and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a quick marinade and simple grilling technique, this chicken dish is suitable for any occasion, from summer barbecues to cozy family dinners. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and the incredible taste that keeps you coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: The marinade comes together in just minutes, making it easy to whip up.
• Flavor Explosion: A delightful mix of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and spices creates an unforgettable flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners, it fits any meal plan.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe serves ten, making it great for gatherings or meal prep.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in calories per serving, it’s a nutritious choice.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Grilled Huli Huli Chicken, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Ziplock bag
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for getting that perfect char and smoky flavor on the chicken.
• Medium bowl: Ideal for mixing all the marinade ingredients thoroughly.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Ingredients

For this delicious Grilled Huli Huli Chicken recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade

• 4 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
• 1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ⅓ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
• 1 ½ teaspoons minced garlic

For Garnish

• Sliced green onions (for garnish)

How to Make Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
2. 1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice,
3. ½ cup soy sauce,
4. ½ cup brown sugar,
5. ⅓ cup ketchup,
6. ¼ cup chicken broth,
7. 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger,
8. 1 ½ teaspoons minced garlic.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Reserve 1 cup of the marinade for basting later.
2. Add the remaining marinade and 4 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs to a ziplock bag.
3. Seal tightly and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Place the marinated chicken on the grill, close the lid, and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side.
3. Ensure no pink remains in the center; internal temperature should reach 165°F.
4. Baste occasionally with reserved marinade during the last five minutes of grilling.
5. Once done, garnish with sliced green onions if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Huli Huli Chicken!

How to Serve Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal and impress your guests.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic side that complements the sweet and savory flavors of huli huli chicken.
• Coconut Rice: Adds a tropical touch with creamy coconut flavor, enhancing the Hawaiian theme.

In Tacos

• Huli Huli Chicken Tacos: Shred the grilled chicken and serve in soft tortillas topped with fresh slaw and pineapple salsa for a fun twist.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, wrap the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves with avocado and lime juice.

On Salads

• Tropical Chicken Salad: Slice the grilled chicken over mixed greens, mango slices, and macadamia nuts for a refreshing salad.
• Coleslaw: Serve alongside tangy coleslaw to balance the sweetness of the marinade.

With Grill Veggies

• Grilled Pineapple Slices: Add caramelized pineapple on the side for extra sweetness and flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
• Asparagus or Bell Peppers: Toss them on the grill alongside the chicken for a colorful and healthy side.

How to Perfect Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

Getting your Grilled Huli Huli Chicken just right enhances its flavors and ensures it’s juicy. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfection.

• Marinate Overnight: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight deepens the flavor, making it more tender.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken; this creates nice grill marks and seals in juices.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure safety and perfect doneness, check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Baste While Grilling: Use reserved marinade to baste during grilling for added flavor without food safety concerns from raw meat juices.
• Let It Rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing; this keeps it juicy by redistributing juices.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

Pairing sides with your Grilled Huli Huli Chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent choices that complement its rich flavors:

1. Garlic Fried Rice: A flavorful rice dish cooked with garlic and green onions, perfect for soaking up excess sauce.
2. Mango Salsa: Fresh mango mixed with cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño brings sweetness and zest to balance the dish.
3. Macaroni Salad: A creamy side that’s popular in Hawaiian cuisine, providing contrast to grilled meats.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness; consider brushing it with chili lime butter for an extra kick.
5. Potato Salad: A cool potato salad pairs well with warm grilled chicken, offering comfort in every bite.
6. Fruit Salad: A mix of tropical fruits like pineapple, watermelon, and kiwi provides freshness that complements smoky flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Huli Huli Chicken, a few common mistakes can impact your dish’s flavor and texture. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Not Marinating Long Enough: Skipping the marination time can make your chicken bland. To avoid this, let the chicken marinate for at least 3 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality soy sauce or pineapple juice can diminish the taste of your marinade. Always opt for high-quality ingredients to enhance the flavor.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Skipping the Basting Step: Basting with reserved marinade during grilling adds moisture and flavor. Don’t skip this step; it makes a big difference!

• Ignoring Grill Temperature: Cooking on too high heat can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Preheat your grill to medium heat for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled Huli Huli chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

• Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag; it can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, occasionally flipping until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grilled Huli Huli Chicken?

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is a flavorful Hawaiian dish made with marinated chicken that is grilled to perfection. The marinade typically includes pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger.

How long should I marinate my chicken?

For best results when making Grilled Huli Huli Chicken, marinate your chicken for at least 3 hours or overnight. This enhances the flavors significantly.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! You can use boneless skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be mindful not to overcook them as they can dry out more quickly than thighs.

What sides pair well with Grilled Huli Huli Chicken?

Delicious sides include rice, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables. These options complement the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its sweet and tangy marinade, this recipe will surely become a family favorite. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or serving it with different sides!