Huli Huli Chicken is a delicious Hawaiian dish known for its sweet and savory flavors, perfect for grilling enthusiasts and anyone looking to add a tropical twist to their barbecue. The name “huli huli” means “turn, turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the traditional method of cooking the chicken on a rotisserie and turning it frequently to baste with a flavorful glaze. This recipe uses a marinade made from soy sauce, pineapple juice, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar, infusing the chicken with a delightful balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or craving a taste of the islands, Huli Huli Chicken is sure to impress with its mouthwatering taste and aroma.
Ingredients
- 4-6 chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in and skin-on for the best flavor)
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons ginger, grated
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Glaze:
- Reserved marinade
- 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and Worcestershire sauce. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the marinade for the glaze.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
- Make the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the reserved marinade with honey. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside.
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat, about 375°F (190°C).
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the used marinade. Place the chicken on the grill, skin-side down, and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, basting frequently with the glaze, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with additional glaze and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Enjoy your Huli Huli Chicken as a flavorful and tropical dish that brings a taste of Hawaii to your barbecue, perfect for any occasion.
