This Easy Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is juicy and packed with sweet and tangy flavors! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a tasty meal that everyone will love.
Grilling chicken has never been this fun! I whip up a batch of this chicken on weekends, and it tops my BBQ list—perfect for dinner or a picnic. Who can resist those yummy flavors? 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using skin-on, bone-in thighs for juiciness and flavor. If you prefer, boneless thighs work well too. You could also use chicken breasts, but they might be drier, so keep an eye on cooking time.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh is fantastic for a bold flavor, but canned juice works just fine. If you don’t have pineapple juice, you can substitute it with orange juice for a different sweet note!
Ginger: Fresh grated ginger gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, ground ginger can work, but use half the amount, as it’s stronger! I find that the fresh kind really brightens up the dish.
Rice Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar: You can swap these with white wine vinegar or even lemon juice if that’s what you have. The citrusy note adds a lovely kick!
What’s the Best Way to Marinate and Grill Chicken?
Marinating chicken is crucial for locking in those wonderful flavors. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Marinade for longer if you can! Overnight in the fridge gives the best taste.
- Always reserve some marinade for basting; it helps keep the chicken moist on the grill.
- Before grilling, make sure to discard any used marinade to avoid contamination.
- Cook chicken until it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety, but remember not to overcook, or it can dry out!
Happy grilling! This Huli Huli Chicken will surely impress your family and friends with those tropical flavors.
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Easy Grilled Huli Huli Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 3-4 lbs chicken thighs (skin-on, bone-in or boneless)
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Grilling (Optional):
- Pineapple slices for grilling
- Sliced green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15-20 minutes of active prep time and at least 2 hours for marinating (or overnight for the best flavor). Grilling takes about 15-20 minutes, making this a quick yet delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper flakes (if you want a bit of heat). This will be your Huli Huli sauce marinade, brimming with flavors!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Reserve the other half for basting and serving later. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight for a richer flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the chicken gets nice and crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the used marinade to avoid any contamination. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). While grilling, you can baste the chicken occasionally with the reserved marinade for extra flavor.
5. Grill the Pineapple:
If you’re using pineapple slices, place them on the grill as well. Grill them alongside the chicken until they are slightly charred, about 2-3 minutes per side. This will add sweetness and caramelization, making them the perfect side!
6. Let It Rest:
Once the chicken and pineapple are done, remove them from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the chicken with sliced green onions and plate it with the grilled pineapple slices. This tangy, sweet, and savory Hawaiian-style chicken is perfect served with steamed rice or a fresh salad. Dive into your easy grilled Huli Huli chicken feast and savor every bite!
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Enjoy your cooking and happy grilling!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Huli Huli Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may dry out more easily than thighs. To prevent this, be sure to monitor the cooking time closely and consider marinating for shorter durations, as breasts can become tough if overcooked.
What If I Don’t Have Pineapple Juice?
No problem! You can substitute pineapple juice with orange juice or even apple juice for a sweet twist. Just remember, the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Absolutely! You can mix the marinade 1-2 days ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may settle.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to maintain its moisture. Enjoy it cold on salads or as a sandwich filling too!
