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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.

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