Introduction
Huli Huli chicken is a delicious Hawaiian dish known for its sweet and tangy flavor profile. This quick recipe offers a simpler take on the traditional preparation, making it an ideal option for a weeknight meal or a BBQ gathering. The name “Huli Huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the grilling technique where the chicken is turned frequently for even cooking. This article will guide you through the ingredients, preparation time, cooking time, and the yield of this delightful dish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken thighs or breasts – 2 pounds
Soy sauce – 1/2 cup
Brown sugar – 1/4 cup
Pineapple juice – 1/4 cup
Ketchup – 1/4 cup
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 teaspoon, grated
Green onions – 2, chopped
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time – 20 minutes
Total Time – 35 minutes
Yield – 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preparing the Marinade
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Marinating the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
Preparing the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure it is clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
Grilling the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken on the hot grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken has nice grill marks.
Glazing the Chicken
During the last few minutes of grilling, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade for added flavor and moisture. Be careful not to apply marinade too early to avoid flare-ups.
Resting the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute within the chicken.
Serving the Chicken
Slice the chicken if desired and serve it with your choice of sides, such as rice or salad. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
Alternative Cooking Method
If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in an oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Storage Instructions
Leftover Huli Huli chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken pairs well with tropical fruits, grilled vegetables, or a fresh coleslaw for a balanced meal.
Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian alternative, you can use tofu or tempeh. Marinate the tofu or tempeh in the same marinade and grill until they are heated through and have nice grill marks.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken helps to infuse it with flavor and keep it moist during cooking. A mixture of soy sauce, pineapple juice, and spices creates a delicious marinade that enhances the taste of the chicken.
Grilling
Grilling the chicken imparts a smoky flavor while keeping the meat juicy. It’s important to cook on medium heat to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly without burning the outside.
Basting
Basting the chicken with the marinade while it cooks adds depth of flavor and helps to keep the meat moist. This technique is especially useful for BBQ or grilled dishes.
Resting
Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking enables the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other proteins like pork or tofu; however, cooking times may vary.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes is recommended, but for best results, marinate for several hours or overnight.
What sides go well with Huli Huli chicken?
Popular sides include rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad to complement the flavors of the chicken.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and grill it when ready to serve. Cooked chicken can also be stored in the refrigerator for future meals.
What is the ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken?
The ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
Conclusion
The Quick Huli Huli Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Its combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it a family favorite. Whether you’re grilling or baking, this recipe is versatile and can easily become a staple in your meal rotation.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Pineapple Skewers
Pair your Huli Huli Chicken with grilled pineapple skewers for a refreshing and sweet contrast. Simply thread pineapple chunks onto skewers and grill until caramelized.
Coconut Rice
Serve your chicken over a bed of fluffy coconut rice to enhance the tropical flavors. The creaminess of the coconut perfectly complements the teriyaki-like sauce.
Asian Slaw
Add a crunchy side of Asian slaw with ingredients like cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing. This light salad will balance the richness of the chicken.
Garlic Noodles
For a heartier side, consider garlic noodles. Tossed in a savory sauce, these noodles make a satisfying accompaniment to the Huli Huli Chicken.
Grilled Vegetables
Include a medley of grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. Their smokiness will enhance the dish and add more color to your plate.
Huli Huli Chicken Tacos
Transform leftovers into delicious tacos. Fill corn tortillas with shredded Huli Huli chicken, topped with avocado and fresh cilantro for a tasty twist.
Leave a Reply