Ah, Huli Huli Chicken! This dish truly holds a special place in my heart (and stomach!). I first tasted it during a family luau a few summers back, and let me tell you, I could not get enough of that sweet and savory glaze. The chicken was juicy and fell right off the bone, while the aroma of the grill wafted through the air, summoning everyone to gather around the BBQ.
What makes Huli Huli Chicken unique is its delicious blend of tropical flavors from Hawaii, featuring a mouthwatering marinade that’s both sweet and tangy. It’s the kind of dish that can transport you to a sunny beach even when you’re just in your backyard. Plus, grilling it gives the chicken the most incredible charred flavor that takes it to a whole new level!
What’s in Savory Grilled Huli Huli Chicken?
Chicken Thighs: I prefer using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for their rich flavor and juiciness. The skin crisp up beautifully on the grill, making every bite a delight!
Soy Sauce: This salty, umami-packed ingredient is a key element of the marinade. You can use regular or low-sodium soy sauce, depending on your taste and dietary needs.
Pineapple Juice: This sweet and tropical juice adds a hint of sweetness and acidity to the marinade, balancing out the savory ingredients perfectly. Fresh juice is great, but canned works just as well.
Brown Sugar: For that caramelized crust, brown sugar is a must. It not only sweetens but also helps create a lovely glaze as the chicken cooks.
Ginger and Garlic: Freshly grated ginger and minced garlic pack a flavorful punch, giving that Hawaiian vibe to the dish. Make sure to use fresh for the best taste!
Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way! This nutty oil adds depth and richness to the marinade.
Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brings brightness and acidity to balance the sweet elements, making this chicken truly irresistible.
Is Savory Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Good for You?
Absolutely! Huli Huli Chicken can be a nutritious addition to your meal rotation. Here’s why:
Chicken Thighs: Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, chicken thighs are not only flavorful but also provide satiating energy.
Soy Sauce: While soy sauce contains sodium, choosing a low-sodium option can help minimize salt intake. Plus, it adds delicious umami flavor, which can reduce the need for extra salt.
Pineapple Juice: This tropical treat offers vitamin C and antioxidants, which are beneficial for your immune system. Just be mindful of added sugars if using store-bought juice.
As with anything, moderation is key! Pair this lovely chicken with a fresh salad or steamed veggies to make it even healthier!
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Juice of 1 lime
– Green onions for garnish (optional)
This recipe serves about 4, perfect for a small gathering or a fun family dinner!
How to Make Savory Grilled Huli Huli Chicken?
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and lime juice to create the marinade.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade (don’t discard the marinade!) and place it on the grill, skin side down.
4. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, until you get those beautiful grill marks. Flip the chicken and brush with some of the reserved marinade.
5. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can brush on more marinade towards the end for extra flavor.
6. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired and enjoy every juicy, flavorful bite!
Aloha Flavors: Tips for Perfect Huli Huli Chicken!
– Don’t skip marinating! This step is crucial for infusing flavor into the chicken, so plan ahead for the best results.
– If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until cooked through. Broil for the last few minutes for a crispy skin.
– For a twist, you can add a splash of chili sauce to the marinade for a little kick or toss in some diced bell peppers and onions on the grill!
I truly hope you give this Savory Grilled Huli Huli Chicken a try! It’s a fantastic dish that will surely impress. And hey, make sure to let me know how it turns out or if you’ve added your own twist to it! Happy grilling!
