Description
Grilled Huli Huli Chicken is a sweet and savory Hawaiian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken marinated in a flavorful mix of pineapple, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar. The chicken is grilled to perfection and glazed with the caramelized marinade, creating a tropical, island-inspired meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (preferably fresh)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, ketchup, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and sesame oil (if using). Mix until the sugar dissolves and the marinade is well combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F or 190°C to 200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). In the last few minutes, brush the chicken with the reserved marinade to glaze it and enhance the flavor.
- Serve: Once fully cooked and caramelized, remove the chicken from the grill. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve with rice, grilled vegetables, or a tropical salad for a complete meal!
Notes
Storage: Store leftover Huli Huli Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheating: Reheat on the grill or in the microwave. For added moisture, brush with a little extra marinade or olive oil while reheating.Variations: Use chicken thighs for juicier results, or add pineapple slices to the grill for extra tropical flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
