Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Huli Huli Chicken is the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The marinade, made with fresh ginger, garlic, brown sugar, and pineapple juice, coats the chicken and infuses it with an incredible depth of flavor. Grilling the chicken along with pineapple circles gives it a smoky and charred touch that elevates the dish even further. The addition of green onions and toasted sesame seeds as a garnish adds a bit of freshness and crunch, making every bite a delightful experience. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Marinade:

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce

Chicken and Pineapple:

• 1 ripe pineapple, cut into circles
• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

Garnish:

• Chopped green onions
• Toasted sesame seeds

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a medium bowl, combine sesame oil, grated ginger, chopped garlic, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, and teriyaki sauce. Stir well to dissolve the sugar and combine all ingredients.
   • Place the chicken thighs (or breasts) in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours, to allow the chicken to marinate.
2. Prepare the Pineapple:
   • While the chicken is marinating, slice the pineapple into rings or circles. Set aside.
3. Grill the Chicken and Pineapple:
   • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
   • Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side (for thighs) or 5-6 minutes per side (for breasts), or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
   • While grilling the chicken, place the pineapple slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple softens slightly.
4. Serve:
   • Once the chicken and pineapple are cooked, remove them from the grill.
   • Slice the chicken if desired and serve with the grilled pineapple on the side or on top.
   • Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add some chili flakes, sriracha, or a diced jalapeño to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Grilled Veggies: Serve the chicken with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for a well-rounded meal.
• Pineapple Salsa: For added freshness, make a quick pineapple salsa by mixing diced pineapple with red onion, cilantro, and lime juice to serve alongside the chicken.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on a grill pan over medium heat for a few minutes, just until heated through. For the best results, avoid overcooking the chicken while reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as breasts tend to cook faster than thighs.

How can I make this recipe in the oven instead of on the grill?

To make this recipe in the oven, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can also broil the pineapple slices for a few minutes until they get a nice char.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour. However, marinating for up to 4 hours will allow the flavors to infuse more deeply into the chicken.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the marinade up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?

Fresh pineapple works best, but you can use canned pineapple in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well before grilling.

Can I cook the chicken without a grill?

If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or a regular skillet over medium-high heat. It may not have the same smoky flavor, but it will still taste delicious.

What can I serve with Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad with a light vinaigrette.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

How do I toast sesame seeds?

To toast sesame seeds, simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook for 2-3 minutes until they become golden and fragrant.

Can I freeze this dish?

You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to defrost it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken is a flavorful and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its sweet and savory marinade, grilled chicken, and caramelized pineapple, this dish transports you to a tropical paradise with each bite. Whether you’re grilling for a summer cookout or making a weeknight dinner, it’s an easy yet impressive recipe that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

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