Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is a five-star recipe that’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a simple weeknight meal. This dish features a delightful marinade that infuses the chicken with tropical flavors, making it both juicy and tender. You’ll find that this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also provides a unique taste experience. Get ready to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings with this delicious grilled chicken dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: The marinade comes together in just minutes, allowing you to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying.
• Bursting with Flavor: With ingredients like pineapple juice and ginger, every bite is packed with sweet and savory goodness.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alongside rice, salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that’s suitable for any occasion.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken ahead of time and grill it fresh whenever you’re ready to eat!
• Family Friendly: This recipe appeals to both adults and kids alike, making it a go-to choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes all the difference in cooking. For this Grilled Huli Huli Chicken recipe, ensure you have everything ready to go before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Ziplock bag
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill ensures even cooking and adds that perfect charred flavor to your chicken.
• Ziplock bag: Ideal for marinating; it allows the chicken to soak up all those delicious flavors without any mess.
• Medium bowl: Essential for mixing the marinade thoroughly before adding the chicken.
• Meat thermometer: Guarantees that your chicken is cooked perfectly to 165 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring safety and juiciness.

Ingredients

For this flavorful Grilled Huli Huli Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade

• 4 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
• 1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ⅓ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
• 1 ½ teaspoons minced garlic

For Garnish

• Sliced green onions (for garnish)

How to Make Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
2. 1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice
3. ½ cup soy sauce
4. ½ cup brown sugar
5. ⅓ cup ketchup
6. ¼ cup chicken broth
7. 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
8. 1 ½ teaspoons minced garlic

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Reserve 1 cup of the marinade for basting later.
2. Add the remaining marinade along with the chicken thighs into a ziplock bag.
3. Seal the bag and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Place the marinated chicken on the grill with the lid closed.
3. Grill each side for about 6-8 minutes or until no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. During the last 5 minutes of grilling, baste occasionally with reserved marinade.
5. Once cooked, garnish with sliced green onions if desired.

This easy-to-follow recipe will become one of your favorites! Enjoy your delicious Grilled Huli Huli Chicken!

How to Serve Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is a flavorful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad

• A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken. Consider using pineapple, mango, and berries for a tropical twist.

Coconut Rice

• This creamy, slightly sweet rice dish complements the grilled flavors beautifully. Cook jasmine rice in coconut milk for added richness.

Grilled Vegetables

• Charred veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus provide a smoky element that enhances the overall taste. Simply toss them in olive oil and grill alongside the chicken.

Asian Slaw

• A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing can add a zesty crunch to your plate. Top it with sesame seeds for extra flavor.

Garlic Bread

• Warm garlic bread can be a delightful addition that balances the meal’s flavors. Toasted baguette slices smeared with garlic butter work wonderfully.

Sliced Avocado

• Creamy avocado offers a rich texture that pairs well with the tangy marinade of the chicken. Serve it simply sliced or as guacamole.

How to Perfect Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

Grilling Huli Huli Chicken can be easy and rewarding with some simple tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight can enhance its flavor and tenderness significantly.
• Use a meat thermometer: Ensure perfect doneness by checking the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Baste while grilling: Applying reserved marinade during the last few minutes helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
• Preheat your grill: A hot grill creates nice sear marks and prevents sticking, resulting in deliciously grilled chicken.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

Pairing your Grilled Huli Huli Chicken with complementary side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overshadowing the main dish.
2. Quinoa Salad: A zesty quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a healthy grain option that is filling yet light.
3. Coleslaw: Classic coleslaw brings crunch and creaminess that balances out the grilled flavors perfectly.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide natural sweetness that pairs well with tangy chicken.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with herb butter makes for a fun finger food that complements any BBQ dish.
6. Mango Salsa: A fresh mango salsa adds sweetness and acidity, enhancing each bite of chicken beautifully.
7. Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumber slices tossed in vinegar offer a refreshing bite that cuts through the richness of the grilled chicken.
8. Cauliflower Rice: Light cauliflower rice seasoned with herbs serves as a low-carb alternative while still being satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Huli Huli Chicken, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Aim for a minimum of 3 hours, or even better, overnight for maximum taste.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using inferior soy sauce or pineapple juice can diminish the overall flavor. Choose high-quality products for a delicious result.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Grilling without preheating can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium heat before adding the chicken.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Cooking chicken without checking its internal temperature can lead to undercooking or overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Basting Too Early: Basting with marinade too early can introduce bacteria from raw chicken. Only baste during the last few minutes of cooking with reserved marinade.
• Forgetting the Garnish: Skipping the garnish may make your dish look less appealing. Top with sliced green onions for a fresh finish and visual appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil, reheating for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking regularly until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Grilled Huli Huli Chicken:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts. Just note that they may cook faster than thighs, so monitor them closely on the grill.

What is the best way to serve Grilled Huli Huli Chicken?

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken pairs well with rice or grilled vegetables. It also makes a delicious addition to salads or sandwiches.

How long should I marinate my chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 3 hours or overnight if possible. This ensures deeper flavor penetration.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

While traditional Huli Huli Chicken uses meat, you could substitute tofu or tempeh marinated in the same sauce for a vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is not just a flavorful dish; it’s incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion. With its sweet and savory marinade, this recipe promises satisfaction every time you serve it. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite spices or sides!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 31 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is a delightful tropical dish that transforms ordinary chicken into a flavorful experience your family and friends will love. This easy-to-follow recipe features tender chicken marinated in a sweet and savory blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger, which infuses every bite with mouthwatering flavors. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy weeknight dinners, this dish can be served alongside rice, salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. With quick preparation and minimal cleanup, you’ll find it becomes one of your go-to recipes for gatherings or simple family dinners.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
• 1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ⅓ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
• 1 ½ teaspoons minced garlic
• Sliced green onions (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, chicken broth, ginger, and garlic.
2. Marinate the chicken: Reserve 1 cup of marinade for basting. Add the remaining marinade with chicken to a ziplock bag, seal it, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
3. Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill each side of the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes until cooked through (165°F). Baste with reserved marinade during the last 5 minutes.
4. Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 16 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 165g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 660mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg