Huli Huli Chicken

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Huli Huli Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings the vibrant flavors of Hawaii right to your backyard or kitchen. Bursting with a sweet and savory marinade, this grilled chicken is perfect for summertime barbecues, family gatherings, or even a quick weeknight dinner. I’ve made this dish countless times, and each time it transports me to sun-kissed beaches with its delightful taste and aroma.

Why you’ll love this dish

One of the best things about Huli Huli Chicken is its simplicity. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also budget-friendly, making it accessible for families and busy professionals alike. As you marinate the chicken overnight, the flavors intensify, leading to a juicy, tender bite that everyone will adore. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress.

"Huli Huli Chicken is my go-to summer recipe! The flavors are incredible, and it’s always a hit with my friends and family." – Sarah W.

Step-by-step overview

Making Huli Huli Chicken is as easy as it is delicious. The cooking process involves marinating the chicken, grilling it to perfection, and giving it a delicious basting with a savory marinade. It’s a straightforward method that results in a deeply flavorful meal. After gathering your ingredients, you’ll whisk together the marinade, let the chicken soak up all that goodness overnight, and then fire up the grill.

What you’ll need

To make Huli Huli Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

½ cup brown sugar (packed)
½ cup ketchup
½ cup soy sauce (preferably reduced sodium)
½ cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon fresh ginger root (minced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 teaspoons rice vinegar
2 teaspoons sesame oil
12 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 3 pounds)
Optional garnishes: green onions and pineapple slices

You can easily substitute ingredients based on your preferences, such as using honey instead of brown sugar or opting for tamari if you’re gluten-free.

Step-by-step instructions

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken with a tropical marinade garnished with green onions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, and chicken broth until smooth.
Stir in the minced ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
Set aside 1 cup of this marinade to use for basting later, and store it in the fridge.
Place the remaining marinade in a large freezer bag with the chicken thighs. Seal the bag and massage it gently to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
Let the chicken marinate in the fridge overnight, or at least for 8 hours.
When ready to cook, preheat your grill and lightly oil the grates.
Remove the chicken from the marinade bag, discarding the used marinade.
Grill the chicken for about 3 minutes on one side. Brush some reserved marinade over the cooked side.
Flip the chicken and grill for another 3 minutes, again basting with the marinade.
Repeat this process until the chicken is fully cooked, which should take about 10 minutes total. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Best ways to enjoy it

Huli Huli Chicken can be served in a variety of ways. For a traditional Hawaiian experience, serve it with steamed rice and a side of mac salad. You can also pair it with grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a lighter meal. For a fun twist, create chicken sliders with pineapple slices and a zesty slaw.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your Huli Huli Chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you’d like to freeze it, make sure the chicken is cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Helpful cooking tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice to the marinade or incorporating some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro. If you’re short on time, even a quick 2-hour marination can still yield delicious results.

Creative twists

Feel free to get creative! Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. For a unique flavor, try adding pineapple juice to the marinade or tossing some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Your questions answered

What is the prep time for Huli Huli Chicken?
Prep time is around 15 minutes, but be sure to plan for the marinating time of at least 8 hours.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used; just keep an eye on cooking times as they can dry out more quickly.

How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just venturing into the world of grilling, Huli Huli Chicken is an outstanding choice that never fails to impress. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and warm memories associated with this Hawaiian classic!