Oh my goodness, have you ever had Huli Huli Chicken? It transports me straight to a sweet Hawaiian sunset with each bite! I first tasted this delightful dish while vacationing on the beautiful island of Maui. The warm breeze, the smell of the grill, and the laughter of my friends as we devoured this delicious food under the stars—those memories are etched in my heart.
What makes Huli Huli Chicken so special is the way it perfectly marries sweet and savory flavors. The chicken gets marinated in a tropical sauce that has a bit of everything—sweetness from pineapple juice and a subtle kick from ginger and garlic. Now, every time I make it at home, it’s like I’m bringing a slice of that paradise right into my kitchen. Let me share with you my love for this dish and how to make it!
What’s in Huli Huli Chicken?
Chicken Thighs: I prefer using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for that juicy flavor, but boneless skinless thighs work too if you prefer less fuss!
Pineapple Juice: This is the star of the show! The natural sweetness from the pineapple not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the chicken. Fresh juice is fantastic, but you can use canned if you’re in a pinch.
Soy Sauce: This adds a deep, savory flavor to balance the sweetness. I suggest using low-sodium soy sauce to keep things a bit healthier.
Brown Sugar: For that sweet, caramelized goodness! It’s what gives the chicken that crispy exterior when grilled.
Ginger: Fresh ginger brings a zesty kick, lending a lovely warmth to the dish.
Garlic: Who doesn’t love garlic? It adds depth and aromatic flavor to the marinade.
Green Onions: These add a fresh, herby finish, and I love to sprinkle extra on top before serving.
Is Huli Huli Chicken Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health benefits of this irresistible chicken!
Chicken Thighs: A great source of protein, chicken thighs also provide essential vitamins and minerals. Just remember, moderation is key since they can be higher in fat than chicken breasts.
Pineapple Juice: Loaded with vitamins C and B6, this juice adds not just sweetness but also nutritional benefits. Just be mindful of the total sugar content, especially if you’re watching your sugar intake!
Soy Sauce: While it’s delicious, soy sauce is high in sodium. Choose low-sodium versions to keep things heart-healthy.
Overall, Huli Huli Chicken can fit nicely into a balanced diet. Pair it with a colorful salad or some grilled veggies for a more wholesome meal!
Ingredients
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless, skinless if preferred)
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
– ½ cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2-3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
*Serves: 4-6*
How to Make Huli Huli Chicken?
1. **Prepare the Marinade:** In a large bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced ginger, and garlic until well combined.
2. **Marinate the Chicken:** Add your chicken thighs to the marinade. Make sure they’re well coated! Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
3. **Preheat the Grill:** About 15 minutes before you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat that up on the stove.
4. **Grill the Chicken:** Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on the grill (reserve that marinade!). Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side, then flip them over and brush with the reserved marinade. Cook for an additional 6-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
5. **Rest the Chicken:** Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps retain its juices—no one likes dry chicken!
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Garnish with fresh chopped green onions and serve alongside steamed rice and grilled veggies for a Hawaiian feast right in your home!
Tips and Tasty Twists for Huli Huli Chicken
Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s chat about some fun variations!
– **Add Spice**: If you like a bit of heat, throw in some red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha to the marinade.
– **Pineapple Addition**: Grill some pineapple slices alongside the chicken. It makes for a delicious sweet and savory side!
– **Oven Option**: If grilling isn’t possible, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 35-40 minutes!
I really hope you give this Huli Huli Chicken a try! I love hearing how things turn out in your kitchen, so please do share your experience! Cheers to flavorful adventures and delicious meals shared with great company! 🍍🍗
