Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that brings summer vibes right to your backyard, then this Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is just what you need! This recipe has been a favorite in my home because it’s bursting with flavor and always impresses friends and family. The sweet and tangy marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also gives it that delightful caramelized finish when grilled. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, you’ll find yourself making this dish again and again!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels like a celebration. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides or even serve as meal prep for the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep and minimal cooking time, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly Flavors: The sweet marinade appeals to kids and adults alike, making it an instant hit at the dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate your chicken ahead of time for effortless grilling later on.
• Grill Perfectly Every Time: This recipe ensures juicy chicken with a beautiful char, making every bite unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! They are simple, wholesome, and easy to find. This means you can focus on enjoying the cooking process without any stress.

For the Marinade

• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup ketchup
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ⅓ cup rice vinegar
• 1 small knob fresh ginger (minced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Chicken

• 4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• Chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for serving)
• Chopped green onions (optional, for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about this Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

• Swap the protein: Use boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
• Add some spice: Toss in some red pepper flakes or sriracha into the marinade if you like a little heat!
• Try different marinades: Experiment with your favorite BBQ sauces or citrus juices to create new flavor profiles.
• Serve it differently: Pair your grilled chicken with salads, tacos, or even sandwiches for variety.

How to Make Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

To start off, whisk together your brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced ginger, and garlic in a large dish or sealable plastic bag. This marinade is where all the magic happens! It infuses flavor into the chicken while also tenderizing it. Remember to reserve ½ cup of this delicious mixture for cooking later!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Once your marinade is ready, add in your chicken pieces. Make sure they are well-coated! For best results, let the chicken marinate overnight; however, if you’re short on time, at least two hours will do the trick. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Prepare Your Grill

While waiting for your chicken to marinate, preheat your grill to medium heat. Don’t forget to oil those racks! Proper grilling temperature helps achieve that irresistible char while keeping your chicken juicy inside.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Place your marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes. Be sure to flip every 5 minutes and baste with that reserved marinade—you want all those flavors locked in! The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F at its thickest part.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked through, take off your lovely grilled huli huli chicken and finish it up with chopped cilantro and green onions for a burst of freshness. Serve it alongside grilled pineapple if you’re feeling adventurous! Enjoy every bite as you savor those summer moments.

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Ready to impress your family and friends with your grilling skills? Here are some pro tips to ensure your Huli Huli chicken turns out mouth-wateringly delicious!

• Marinate Longer for Best Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight really intensifies the flavor. The longer it sits in that sweet and tangy marinade, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, invest in a meat thermometer. It takes the guesswork out of cooking; you’ll know exactly when your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• Baste Frequently: Basting the chicken every 5 minutes with reserved marinade not only adds flavor but also helps keep the meat moist. This extra step makes a big difference, especially on a hot grill!
• Allow Resting Time: Once off the grill, let your chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier pieces of chicken.
• Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to customize your marinade! Adding other ingredients like pineapple juice or different spices can give this classic recipe your unique twist.

How to Serve Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Serving up your Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is almost as fun as cooking it! With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, this dish deserves a beautiful presentation.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sliced Green Onions: These add a mild onion flavor and freshness, enhancing the overall taste and presentation.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Pineapple: Sweet grilled pineapple pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the chicken. Just slice fresh pineapple rings and toss them on the grill for a few minutes!
• Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice provides a subtle sweetness that balances the tanginess of the marinade. Simply replace some water with coconut milk when preparing your rice for an easy upgrade.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture to your meal. The coolness contrasts nicely with the warm grilled chicken while providing a satisfying crunch.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can brighten up your plate. The freshness will help cut through the richness of the grilled chicken.

Now you’re all set to create an unforgettable meal with this Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken in advance, making it an easy go-to for busy weeknights or backyard gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the grilled chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• For best flavor, consume within the first few days.

Freezing

• After cooking, let the chicken cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label your bag with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place on a grill or in an oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power until warmed, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe.

What is the best way to prepare the Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe?

The best preparation method involves marinating your chicken overnight. This allows it to soak up all those sweet and tangy flavors from the marinade, resulting in juicy and flavorful grilled chicken.

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe?

Yes! While boneless skinless thighs provide great flavor and moisture, you can also use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Just adjust grilling times accordingly to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

How can I make this Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Can I cook this recipe indoors if I don’t have a grill?

Absolutely! You can cook the marinated chicken in a grill pan over medium heat on your stovetop or bake it in the oven at 375°F, turning halfway through cooking for even results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy whipping up this easy and flavorful Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Recipe! It’s not only a delightful dish perfect for summer barbecues but also versatile enough for any meal prep. The sweet and tangy marinade brings out incredible flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. So fire up that grill, and let’s get cooking together—happy grilling!