Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Easy Huli Huli Chicken is a fantastic summertime dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table! This Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe features a sweet and tangy marinade that makes chicken irresistible. Perfect for family gatherings or casual cookouts, this recipe shines with its vibrant flavors and juicy texture, making it a must-try for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes minimal time to prepare, allowing you to enjoy delicious grilled chicken without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of brown sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar creates a mouthwatering glaze that keeps the chicken moist and packed with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or alongside other dishes—it pairs well with salads, rice, or grilled vegetables.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress your guests and family alike.
• Healthy Alternative: With lean chicken and fresh ingredients, this recipe offers a nutritious option that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all necessary tools. Having the right equipment simplifies the process and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Sealable plastic bag or large dish
• Whisk
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: The key tool for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on your chicken.
• Sealable plastic bag or large dish: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly while maximizing flavor absorption.
• Whisk: Ensures that all ingredients in the marinade are well combined for balanced taste.
• Basting brush: Helps apply the reserved marinade for extra moisture and flavor during grilling.

Ingredients

Easy Huli Huli Chicken is a summertime staple! Chicken is flavored with the best sweet and tangy marinade before being grilled to perfection.

For the Marinade

• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup ketchup
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ⅓ cup rice vinegar
• 1 small knob fresh ginger (minced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Chicken

• 4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for serving)
• chopped green onions (optional, for serving)

How to Make Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a sealable plastic bag or large dish, whisk together the brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
2. Reserve ½ cup of this marinade for later use in cooking.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place the chicken into the marinade.
2. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate overnight for optimal flavor or at least 2 hours.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat and oil the racks to prevent sticking.
2. Remove chicken from marinade and place it on the grill.
3. Cook each side for about 20-25 minutes. Every 5 minutes, flip the chicken over and baste generously with reserved marinade.
4. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh or breast.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once cooked through, remove from grill.
2. Finish by sprinkling chopped cilantro and green onions on top if desired.
3. Serve alongside grilled pineapple for an added tropical touch!

Enjoy this delightful Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe with friends and family!

How to Serve Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience! The sweet and tangy flavors pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and garnishes. Here are some great serving suggestions that can elevate your dish.

Fresh Herbs and Greens

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of this herb adds freshness and enhances the dish’s tropical vibes.
• Chopped Green Onions: These add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to your plate.

Accompaniments

• Grilled Pineapple: Juicy, caramelized pineapple slices complement the chicken’s flavors perfectly.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa for a wholesome side that absorbs all the delicious marinade.

Salads

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette makes for a crisp contrast to the savory chicken.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the sweetness of the Huli Huli sauce.

How to Perfect Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

To ensure your Grilled Huli Huli Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Marinate Overnight: Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade overnight maximizes flavor infusion.
• Use Boneless Thighs: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier meat compared to breasts.
• Baste Frequently: Basting every five minutes keeps the chicken moist and flavorful as it cooks on the grill.
• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe eating.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling will help retain its juices when sliced.
• Experiment with Marinade Variations: Feel free to modify the marinade by adding chili flakes or pineapple juice for extra flavor!

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Pairing sides with your Grilled Huli Huli Chicken can create a balanced and satisfying meal. Here are some delightful options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A vibrant green side that adds health benefits and complements the chicken nicely.
2. Mango Salsa: This zesty salsa brings a fruity twist that pairs beautifully with grilled meats.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a sweet contrast and can be seasoned simply with salt and pepper.
4. Coconut Rice: Cooked with coconut milk, this rice has a creamy texture that enhances tropical flavors.
5. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with assorted greens dressed lightly allows you to enjoy freshness alongside rich flavors.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Charred asparagus spears add an earthy taste that balances well with sweetness from the chicken.

These side dishes will complement your Grilled Huli Huli Chicken perfectly, making your meal unforgettable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe even better. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not letting the chicken marinate long enough can result in bland flavors. Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for full flavor absorption.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Cooking on a cold grill can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium before placing the chicken on it.
• Using the Same Marinade for Basting: Basting with used marinade can risk food safety. Always reserve a portion of the marinade before adding raw chicken.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken that is overcooked becomes dry. Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F.
• Ignoring Grill Maintenance: Failing to oil your grill grates can lead to sticking chicken. Ensure you oil them well before grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled Huli Huli chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

• You can freeze the grilled chicken for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken pieces on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of broth or water. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

What is Huli Huli Chicken?

Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian dish featuring grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce made from ingredients like soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat used.

How do I customize my Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe?

You can customize by adding fruits like pineapple or mango to the marinade or serving with different garnishes like sesame seeds or crunchy peanuts.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! This Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and can be easily reheated throughout the week.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken ahead of time. Just grill it when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is not just flavorful but also versatile, making it a perfect choice for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite sides or garnishes, such as grilled vegetables or fresh herbs. Try this delightful recipe today and enjoy its sweet and tangy goodness!