Introduction

Welcome to the world of Quick Huli Huli Chicken! If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will impress your family and friends, you’re in the right place. This Hawaiian-inspired recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for backyard BBQs, weeknight dinners, or any occasion that calls for flavorful chicken with a tropical twist.

Originating in Hawaii, Huli Huli Chicken is known for its sweet and savory marinade that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. The name “Huli Huli” comes from the Hawaiian word for “turn,” as the chicken is traditionally cooked on a rotisserie and turned (“huli-ed”) multiple times to ensure even cooking and flavor infusion.

What makes this recipe special is not just its mouthwatering taste but also the cultural significance it carries. Huli Huli Chicken is a culinary symbol of the Aloha spirit, bringing people together through food, laughter, and shared moments of joy.

Get ready to embark on a culinary journey filled with vibrant flavors, tender chicken, and a touch of Hawaiian hospitality. Let’s dive into the world of Quick Huli Huli Chicken!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Prepare to fall in love with Quick Huli Huli Chicken for several reasons that go beyond its delicious taste:

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.

The marinade transforms the chicken into a succulent and juicy masterpiece, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

For health-conscious individuals, this dish can be a wholesome choice as you can control the ingredients to suit dietary preferences like gluten-free or low-sugar options.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, Quick Huli Huli Chicken is a foolproof recipe that guarantees a scrumptious outcome every time!

Ingredients

Get ready to gather the following ingredients to create your own Quick Huli Huli Chicken masterpiece:

– Chicken thighs or breasts – Soy sauce – Ketchup – Brown sugar – Pineapple juice – Garlic – Ginger – Sesame oil – Green onions (for garnish) – Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Feel free to customize this recipe by exploring ingredient substitutions such as using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce or maple syrup instead of brown sugar. These tweaks can cater to various dietary needs without compromising on flavor!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bring the flavors of Hawaii into your kitchen with Quick Huli Huli Chicken:

1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, pineapple juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil to create the marinade.

2. Place the chicken pieces in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through, basting with the marinade occasionally.

4. Once the chicken is cooked and has a beautiful char, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Expert Tips for Success

For the best results when making Quick Huli Huli Chicken, keep these expert tips in mind:

– Make sure to pat the chicken dry before marinating to help the flavors penetrate better. – Reserve some marinade before adding it to the chicken for basting during grilling to enhance the taste. – Adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the marinade according to your preference by tweaking the brown sugar or soy sauce quantities.

Variations and Substitutions

Explore creative ways to customize your Quick Huli Huli Chicken with these variations and ingredient substitutions:

– For a spicy kick, add a splash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade. – Swap the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood twist on this classic dish. – Experiment with different fruit juices like orange or mango juice to create unique flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Quick Huli Huli Chicken experience, consider these serving suggestions:

Pair the chicken with steamed white rice and a side of macaroni salad for a traditional Hawaiian plate lunch experience.

For a lighter meal, serve the chicken over a bed of mixed greens drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing touch.

Complete the tropical feast by serving sliced fresh pineapple or grilled pineapple skewers alongside the chicken for a burst of sweetness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions and answers to enhance your Quick Huli Huli Chicken cooking experience:

Q: Can I bake the Huli Huli Chicken instead of grilling it? A: Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 375°F for approximately 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked.

Q: How long can I store leftover Huli Huli Chicken? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Final Thoughts

As you savor the delightful flavors of Quick Huli Huli Chicken, may you feel transported to the sandy beaches and lush landscapes of Hawaii with each bite. This recipe encapsulates the essence of tropical cuisine, bringing a taste of paradise to your dining table.

Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones and invite them to experience the magic of Huli Huli Chicken. Embrace the Aloha spirit in your cooking and create memorable moments filled with laughter, joy, and of course, fantastic food!

Quick Huli Huli Chicken

Recipe by Author

Enjoy the taste of Hawaii with this delicious and easy-to-make Quick Huli Huli Chicken recipe. Tender chicken marinated in a sweet and savory blend of flavors, grilled to perfection, and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. Perfect for BBQs or weeknight dinners!

Course: Main Course Cuisine: Hawaiian Difficulty: easy

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4.5 from 120 votes

Pin Print

🍽️

Servings

4

⏱️

Prep time

20

minutes

🔥

Cooking time

15

minutes

📊

Calories

350

kcal

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• 4-6 chicken thighs or breasts
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Green onions, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to create the marinade.
2. Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish, pour marinade over it, ensuring it's well-coated. Marinate for at least 2 hours in the fridge.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, basting with marinade occasionally.
4. Remove chicken from grill, let it rest, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 350

Fat: 12

Carbohydrates: 23

Protein: 32

Sodium: 1200

Fiber: 1

Sugar: 18