Introduction
Huli Huli Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the tropical flavors of Hawaii right to your table. With a sweet and savory marinade, this easy grilled chicken is perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Total Time: 24 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 6 hours.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Brush the chicken with reserved marinade during the last few minutes of grilling for added flavor.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra kick, adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste.
- Pair this dish with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavors even more.
Cooking Techniques
Grilling is a fantastic way to infuse flavor into meats while keeping them juicy and tender. The high heat helps to caramelize the sugars in the marinade, creating a beautiful char on the outside while maintaining moisture within.
FAQ
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, but be mindful that they may cook faster and need less time on the grill.
- Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe? Tofu can be marinated and grilled in a similar fashion!
- How do I store leftovers? Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Huli Huli Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a flavorful adventure that transports you to sunny shores. Enjoy this delightful dish with your loved ones and relish in the glow of good food and great company!