This Hawaiian-inspired dish is perfect for winter nights, featuring a sweet and savory glaze that makes the chicken tender and full of flavor. Marinated in a mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and pineapple juice, this Huli Huli Chicken is grilled to perfection, resulting in a crispy, caramelized finish. It’s a delightful tropical treat that will take your taste buds on a journey to an island paradise, making it ideal for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor)
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
2 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the marinade)
Chopped green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, ketchup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. If you want a thicker marinade, dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of water and add it to the mixture.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C). If you’re using a charcoal grill, set it up for indirect grilling, placing the coals on one side and cooking the chicken on the other side.
4. Grill the Chicken: Take the chicken out of the marinade and either discard the used marinade or set aside some to brush on while grilling. Place the chicken on the grill with the skin side down, cooking for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). For added flavor, you can brush the chicken with some of the reserved marinade as it cooks.
5. Serve: After the chicken is fully cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Top it with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Pair it with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips:
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight.
You can substitute chicken breasts or drumsticks, but thighs are generally juicier.
If grilling isn’t an option, you can cook the chicken in a hot pan on the stovetop or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.
This Huli Huli Chicken recipe is bound to impress and bring a taste of Hawaii to your dinner table. It’s simple to prepare, bursting with flavor, and ideal for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy the warmth and richness of this dish throughout the winter season!
