![Huli Huli Chicken hails from Hawaii. It first appeared in the 1950s. The name "Huli" means "turn" in Hawaiian. This dish gets its name from the grilling method. You turn the chicken on the grill for even cooking. Locals often serve Huli Huli Chicken at luaus and gatherings. Its sweet and savory flavor makes it a favorite among many. People love Huli Huli Chicken for its unique taste. The mix of pineapple juice and soy sauce gives it a great balance. The dish is simple to make and full of flavor. It appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family meals. Plus, grilling adds a smoky touch that enhances the dish. You can serve it at barbecues, parties, or just for a nice dinner at home. The key ingredients bring Huli Huli Chicken to life. Here’s what you need: - 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on - 1 cup pineapple juice - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 1/4 cup brown sugar - 2 tablespoons sesame oil - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes - 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish) - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) These ingredients create a delicious marinade. They work together to tenderize the chicken and add layers of flavor. You can find the full recipe [here]. To make Huli Huli chicken, gather these simple items: - 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on - 1 cup pineapple juice - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 1/4 cup brown sugar - 2 tablespoons sesame oil - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes - 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish) - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh chicken enhances the taste and texture. Fresh garlic and ginger also add vibrant flavors. Pineapple juice can be fresh or canned. I prefer fresh for a brighter flavor. Pre-packaged sauces can save time but may contain preservatives. If you use them, check the label for quality. Each serving provides a burst of flavor along with key nutrients. Here’s what you get per serving: - Calories: 300 - Protein: 24g - Carbohydrates: 25g - Fat: 15g - Fiber: 1g - Sugars: 10g This dish gives you a balanced meal with protein and some natural sugars. When you use the Full Recipe, you can enjoy a tasty meal that's both healthy and satisfying. To start, gather your ingredients. You need chicken thighs, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Whisk it all together until well mixed. This marinade gives the chicken a sweet and tangy flavor. Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or better yet, overnight. This step is key for the best taste. When you are ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is important to get perfect grill marks and a nice sear on the chicken. Make sure your grill grates are clean. You can oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking. This small step can save you from a messy cooking experience later. Now, it’s time to grill! Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Keep the leftover marinade for basting later. Place the chicken skin-side down on the grill. Grill for about 7-8 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden. Flip the chicken carefully, then baste it with the reserved marinade. Grill for another 7-8 minutes. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This will help keep it juicy. Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro. Enjoy your flavorful Huli Huli chicken! For the full recipe, check out the previous section. {{image_2}} Marinating chicken is key to great flavor. I recommend marinating for at least two hours. For the best taste, leave it overnight. The longer you marinate, the more delicious the chicken becomes. The pineapple juice tenderizes the meat and adds a sweet taste. Grill marks make your dish look amazing. To get those perfect lines, set your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin-side down on the grill. Don't move it for about 7-8 minutes. Once you see nice grill marks, flip the chicken carefully. This helps keep the juices inside. Using the right tools makes cooking easier. A good grill is essential for Huli Huli chicken. I also suggest using tongs to flip the chicken. A meat thermometer is important too. It ensures your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety. Lastly, have a basting brush ready for the marinade. This will keep the chicken juicy and full of flavor. For the full recipe and detailed steps, check out the [Full Recipe]. You can cook Huli Huli chicken in two main ways: grilling or baking. Grilling gives a smoky flavor and crispy skin. The heat from the grill adds nice char marks. For fun, try using a charcoal grill for extra flavor. Bake it for a more hands-off method. Just set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and pour the marinade over it. Bake for about 45 minutes. Check that the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety. Huli Huli chicken is great in bowls. Start with a base of rice or quinoa. Add grilled veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. Slice the chicken and place it on top. Drizzle with extra marinade or teriyaki sauce for added flavor. You can also sprinkle chopped green onions and cilantro for a fresh touch. Add slices of avocado or mango for a tropical twist. This makes for a colorful and tasty meal. You can easily adapt this recipe for different diets. For gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce. If you want a lower-sugar version, try using a sugar substitute like stevia. For a vegan option, swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Marinate it in the same sauce. Cooking times will vary, so check for doneness. These swaps keep the dish flavorful while meeting your dietary needs. For the full recipe, check out the details above! Yes, you can use different cuts. Huli Huli chicken works great with chicken breasts or drumsticks. Each cut offers a unique taste and texture. Keep in mind that cooking times may change. Breasts may cook faster than thighs. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C). To store leftovers, let the chicken cool first. Place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, make sure the chicken is hot all the way through. You can find great Huli Huli chicken at Hawaiian restaurants. Look for local spots that specialize in island cuisine. Some food trucks also serve this dish. Check reviews online to find the best places. If you can't find a restaurant nearby, try making it at home using the Full Recipe. Huli Huli chicken is a tasty dish with rich history. We explored its origins, key ingredients, and why people love it. You learned how to marinate, grill, and serve this dish perfectly. I shared helpful tips and tasty variations to try. Enjoy making Huli Huli chicken in your kitchen. Each bite brings a taste of Hawaii to your home. Whether grilling or baking, have fun and get creative with flavors!](https://themomdish.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/38705b21-8ea5-42db-b23d-0c2c012f1791-300x300.webp)
Huli Huli Chicken
Discover the mouthwatering flavors of Huli Huli Chicken, a delicious Hawaiian dish that will elevate your grilling game! This easy recipe features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and tangy blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and spices. Grilled to perfection, it's garnished with fresh herbs for a delightful finish. Click through to explore this tasty recipe and impress your family at your next cookout!