As I stood over the grill one sunny afternoon, the sweet and savory scents of Huli Huli Chicken wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a Hawaiian beach barbecue. This vibrant dish showcases the tantalizing flavors of soy sauce, honey, and pineapple juice, creating a mouthwatering marinade that’s both easy to whip up and impressively delicious. With just a 10-minute prep time and a simple grilling method, Huli Huli Chicken is perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, bringing everyone together for a shared love of homemade food. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it a fantastic option to have on hand for those busy days. Ready to add a tropical twist to your mealtime routine? Let’s dive into making this irresistible dish that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Why is Huli Huli Chicken So Special?
Aromatic Flavors: The mix of soy sauce, honey, and pineapple juice creates a lip-smacking glaze that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Quick Prep: With only 10 minutes of hands-on time, you can easily whip this up for a weeknight meal or a weekend barbecue with friends.
Tropical Vibes: This dish delivers a delightful taste of Hawaii right in your kitchen, perfect for those who wish to escape the ordinary.
Freezer-Friendly: Freeze leftovers for a quick meal that brings a burst of flavor on busy days.
Impress your Guests: Serve this at your next gathering, and watch everyone rave about this impressive dish! For other easy chicken recipes, check out my grilled chicken collection.
Huli Huli Chicken Ingredients
A delicious blend for tropical flavor!
For the Marinade
- Soy Sauce – adds a rich, savory depth to the marinade that complements the sweetness.
- Ketchup – brings in a touch of sweetness and tang, making the flavors more well-rounded.
- Brown Sugar – enhances the marinade's sweetness and creates a caramelized glaze when grilled.
- Honey – provides natural sweetness and helps the marinade cling to the chicken.
- Rice Vinegar – adds a subtle tanginess, balancing the sweet elements beautifully.
- Pineapple Juice – infuses a fruity acidity that brightens the dish; fresh is best if you have it!
- Sesame Oil – contributes a nutty aroma that takes the flavor profile to the next level.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – brings warmth and depth to the marinade with its fragrant punch.
- Grated Ginger (1 tablespoon) – adds a warm spiciness that enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- Ground Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – provides a subtle heat that offsets the sweetness of the marinade.
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts (4 pieces) – the perfect canvas to absorb all the wonderful flavors of Huli Huli Chicken!
Embrace the simplicity of these ingredients and prepare to delight your senses with homemade Huli Huli Chicken!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Huli Huli Chicken
Step 1: Create the Marinade
In a medium-sized bowl, combine ½ cup of soy sauce, ¼ cup of ketchup, ¼ cup of brown sugar, ¼ cup of honey, ¼ cup of rice vinegar, ¼ cup of pineapple juice, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Whisk the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and the brown sugar is fully dissolved, creating a luscious marinade that will coat your chicken perfectly.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Next, incorporate 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper into the marinade. Whisk everything together until well combined, ensuring that these aromatic ingredients blend seamlessly into the marinade. This addition will elevate the flavor profile of your Huli Huli Chicken to new heights!
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place 4 chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure they are evenly coated on all sides. Seal the dish or bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 2 to 4 hours, so the chicken can absorb all those delightful tropical flavors for your Huli Huli Chicken dish.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C). This step ensures a perfect sear and those classic grill marks on your chicken. As the grill heats up, you are preparing for the mouthwatering cooking experience ahead.
Step 5: Prepare to Grill
Once marinating is complete, remove the chicken breasts from the refrigerator and take them out of the marinade, reserving the marinade for later use. This allows the chicken to come to room temperature for even cooking, while also allowing your Huli Huli Chicken to achieve that perfect char on the grill.
Step 6: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken on the hot grill, cooking for about 6 to 7 minutes per side. Look for a nice golden color and grill marks as indicators of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (75°C) to ensure your Huli Huli Chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Step 7: Simmer the Marinade
While the chicken is grilling, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes. This process reduces and thickens the marinade, making it a perfect glaze to brush onto your grilled chicken.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juices. After resting, brush the cooked chicken with the thickened marinade to amplify that delicious Huli Huli flavor just before serving.
Step 9: Plate and Garnish
Serve your Huli Huli Chicken hot, adding a touch of elegance with optional garnishes like chopped green onions or sesame seeds. This final presentation elevates your dish, bringing a tropical flair to your table and creating a memorable dining experience for you and your loved ones.
Expert Tips for Huli Huli Chicken
Marination Magic: Start marinating as early as possible, ideally overnight. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more flavorful your Huli Huli Chicken will be.
Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is adequately preheated. A hot grill gives that delicious sear and prevents sticking—about 375°F to 400°F is ideal.
Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken's internal temperature. Aim for 165°F (75°C) to keep it juicy and safe to eat.
Thickened Sauce: Don’t skip simmering the reserved marinade! It transforms from a raw marinade into a delectable glaze that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
Balance the Sweetness: If the marinade feels too sweet, add a splash more vinegar or soy sauce to balance out the flavors for a well-rounded taste.
Garnish Well: Enhance your presentation with fresh toppings. Chopped green onions or sesame seeds not only look beautiful but also add extra texture and flavor to your Huli Huli Chicken!
Make Ahead Options
These Huli Huli Chicken are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Simply combine the marinade ingredients and coat the chicken breasts, then seal and refrigerate. For the best results, make sure to store them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to prevent any leaks or contamination. When you're ready to cook, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. Following these steps ensures your Huli Huli Chicken will be just as delicious and packed with flavor when it's time to serve!
Huli Huli Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor your Huli Huli Chicken to please your palate and dietary preferences!
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari in place of soy sauce for a gluten-friendly option without compromising on flavor.
- Pineapple Twist: Substitute fresh orange juice for the pineapple juice to add a delightful citrusy zing.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chopped fresh chili peppers to the marinade for an enjoyable heat that elevates the sweetness.
- Herbed Variation: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the marinade for a fragrant, garden-fresh twist.
- Sweet and Spicy: Mix in a tablespoon of chili sauce with the marinade for a sweet and spicy combination that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Honey Brown Sugar Substitute: Replace honey with maple syrup for a unique flavor punctuated with earthy sweetness.
- Veggie Delight: Marinate and grill bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant alongside the chicken for a colorful and nutritious addition.
- Coconut Flavor: Mix in a tablespoon of coconut milk into the marinade for a rich, tropical flair that complements the dish beautifully.
These variations let you explore different dimensions of flavor while still reveling in the delightful essence of Huli Huli Chicken! If you’re looking for more easy chicken dishes, check out my easy chicken recipes for inspiration.
How to Store and Freeze Huli Huli Chicken
Fridge: Store cooked Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Marinade: If you have leftover marinade, it can be refrigerated for up to a week, or frozen in small batches for future use in your next Huli Huli Chicken adventure!
Thawing: When ready to use frozen chicken, thaw it overnight in the fridge. For quicker cooking, you can also grill it directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What to Serve with Huli Huli Chicken
Creating a delightful meal is all about layering flavors and textures to complement that sweet, smoky goodness.
- Coconut Rice: A creamy, subtly sweet base to balance the rich flavors of the chicken. Serve it warm for a comforting touch.
- Grilled Pineapple Slices: These caramelized rings add a refreshing sweetness that echoes the marinade’s tropical notes. They're a must-have!
- Mango Slaw: A crunchy, zesty salad packed with fresh mango, bell peppers, and a light dressing; it brightens up each bite.
- Sesame Green Beans: Stir-fried with sesame oil and garlic, these beans provide a crisp, nutty counterpart that pairs well with the chicken’s sweetness.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the Huli Huli Chicken beautifully while adding a hearty element to your plate.
- Hibiscus Iced Tea: This floral, fruity beverage refreshes your palate and adds an exotic flair to your meal, making every sip a delight.
- Pineapple Coconut Sorbet: A refreshing dessert to cleanse the palate; it echoes the flavors of your main dish and provides a sweet finish.
- Teriyaki Brussels Sprouts: Charred, tender, and glossy with a soy glaze, these sprouts offer earthy depth, enriching the overall meal experience.
- Miso Soup: The warm, umami flavors of this classic soup can be a cozy start to your Huli Huli Chicken dinner, setting the tone perfectly!
- Mochi Ice Cream: For a fun dessert option, these chewy, sweet treats provide a delightful textural contrast—perfect for wrapping up your feast!
Huli Huli Chicken Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for Huli Huli Chicken?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They absorb the marinade beautifully and cook evenly on the grill. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work wonderfully too!
How do I know if the chicken is properly marinated?
The best indicator is time—marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for optimal flavor, aim for 2 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is visibly darker in color and has a rich aroma from the marinade.
How should I store leftover Huli Huli Chicken?
Store any cooked Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze Huli Huli Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the chicken out in a single layer on a baking sheet until it's solid, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag. This method helps the pieces stay separate, allowing you to thaw only what you need. It will keep well for up to 3 months!
Can I use a different sweetener in the marinade?
Yes! If you want to switch it up, you can substitute brown sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. If you're looking for a low-carb option, consider using a sugar substitute suitable for cooking.
Is Huli Huli Chicken safe for pets?
While the individual ingredients are generally safe, it's important to avoid sharing cooked chicken with pets if it contains marinade or seasonings, as some (like garlic) can be harmful to them. Always consult your veterinarian to ensure their safety when introducing new foods.
Savory Huli Huli Chicken: A Taste of Tropical Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, pineapple juice, and sesame oil. Whisk until smooth.
- Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and ground black pepper into the marinade, whisking until well combined.
- Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour marinade over the chicken, seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F.
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing it to come to room temperature.
- Grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- While chicken is grilling, pour reserved marinade into a small saucepan and simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken.
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then brush with thickened marinade before serving.
- Serve hot, with optional garnishes like chopped green onions or sesame seeds.
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