Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken (1 Hour + Marinating Time)

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Huli Huli chicken is known for its sweet and savory marinade, which gives the chicken a beautiful glaze and an irresistible aroma. The addition of grilled pineapple rings complements the chicken with a natural sweetness and a hint of smokiness.

This dish is perfect for outdoor barbecues, summer gatherings, or anytime you want to enjoy a taste of the islands. It’s easy to prepare, yet the flavors are complex and mouthwatering, making it a hit with family and friends.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes + marinating time
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour + marinating time
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Huli Huli Marinade:

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

For the Chicken and Pineapple:

  • 8 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 1 pineapple, peeled and cut into rings
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Huli Huli Marinade (10 minutes): In a bowl, combine ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, pineapple juice, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Mix well.
  2. Marinate Chicken (1-4 hours): Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag. Pour in the marinade, ensuring the chicken is well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 hours.
  3. Preheat Grill (10 minutes): Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill Chicken (25-30 minutes): Remove chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and grill, turning occasionally and basting with the reserved marinade, until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  5. Grill Pineapple Rings (8-10 minutes): Brush pineapple rings with olive oil. Grill for 4-5 minutes on each side, until they have nice grill marks.
  6. Serve (5 minutes): Serve the grilled chicken thighs with the grilled pineapple rings on the side.

Notes

Grilling the chicken on medium-high heat allows for a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy. Basting the chicken with the marinade as it cooks adds layers of flavor and helps to achieve a nice glaze.

The grilled pineapple should have a slight char to enhance its sweetness. For an authentic Hawaiian experience, serve this dish with a side of rice or a fresh salad.

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 180mg

Pair this with...

Cilantro Lime Brown Rice

Begin by cooking brown rice as per package instructions, ensuring each grain remains distinct and slightly chewy, a characteristic charm of this whole grain. While the rice cooks, zest and juice a couple of fresh limes, setting aside their aromatic essence. Once the rice is done, fluff it gently with a fork to release steam and separate the grains. While still warm, drizzle the rice with the lime juice and gently mix in the zest, ensuring that citrusy goodness permeates every bite. Finally, fold in freshly chopped cilantro, which adds a burst of herbaceous brightness. Season with a touch of salt to bring all the flavors together.

Buttery Grilled Corn on the Cob

Start by selecting fresh ears of corn, husks and silks removed. Before grilling, melt some butter and brush it generously over each cob, ensuring every kernel is kissed with that buttery goodness. Season with a sprinkle of salt to contrast that natural sweetness. Once your grill is heated, lay the corn cobs on the grates, turning them occasionally to achieve an even char and those enticing grill marks. The butter will sizzle and infuse the corn with its rich flavor. When they're beautifully golden, remove from the grill. For an extra touch, you can add another swipe of butter or even sprinkle some fresh herbs or parmesan on top.

Simple Green Salad

Begin by selecting crisp lettuce leaves, giving them a thorough wash and a gentle pat dry. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces and place them as the foundation of your salad. Next, slice ripe tomatoes, their juicy segments promising a burst of sweetness. Add these to the lettuce, their vibrant red contrasting beautifully against the green. For a refreshing crunch, slice a cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons, layering them amongst the other ingredients. For dressing, a light drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice will enhance the salad's natural flavors without overshadowing them. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper and any herbs of your choosing.

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