Name: Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Yield: 9
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: ⅓ cup ketchup; ⅓ cup soy sauce; ⅓ cup light brown sugar; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp Sriracha; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1½ tbsp garlic; 1½ tbsp fresh ginger; 3 lbs chicken thighs; Vegetable Oil

Experience a tropical delight with this Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken. This recipe brings the flavors of Hawaii to your plate, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy.

Photos of Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Some ingredients for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken might not be common in every pantry. Sriracha is a spicy chili sauce you can find in the Asian section. Worcestershire sauce adds a unique umami flavor and is typically located near the condiments. Sesame oil is a potent, nutty oil often used in Asian cooking and can be found in the oil aisle.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

ketchup: Adds a tangy base to the marinade.

soy sauce: Provides a salty, umami flavor.

light brown sugar: Balances the flavors with sweetness.

rice vinegar: Adds a mild, acidic note.

sriracha: Brings a touch of heat.

worcestershire sauce: Enhances the marinade with umami depth.

sesame oil: Offers a nutty aroma and taste.

garlic: Infuses the dish with a robust flavor.

fresh ginger: Adds a zesty, aromatic quality.

chicken thighs: The main protein, tender and flavorful.

vegetable oil: Used to grease the grill.

One reader, Claudina Mckenna says:

This Hawaiian huli huli chicken recipe is fantastic! The marinade is perfectly balanced with sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. The chicken turns out juicy and delicious every time. Grilling adds a wonderful smoky touch. Highly recommend for a tasty and easy dinner!

Claudina Mckenna

Key Techniques for Preparing Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

How to whisk: Combine the ingredients in a bowl and use a whisk to mix them thoroughly until smooth.

How to marinate: Place the chicken in a bowl or resealable bag, pour the marinade over it, and ensure the chicken is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for the specified time.

How to preheat a gas grill: Turn on the gas grill to medium heat and allow it to reach the desired temperature before cooking.

How to clean grill grates: Use a grill brush to remove any residue or debris from the grill grates before cooking.

How to brush with vegetable oil: Use a brush to apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the grill grates to prevent sticking.

How to grill chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the preheated grill, turn occasionally, and baste with the reserved marinade until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

How to garnish: Add green onions or other garnishes to the cooked chicken before serving.

How To Make Huli Huli Chicken

Enjoy a juicy and luscious plate of this huli huli chicken for dinner! It’s a classic Hawaiian dish of chicken exquisitely marinated in a herb-spice mix!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Marinate Time: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

⅓cupketchup
⅓cupsoy sauce,low-sodium
⅓cuplight brown sugar,packed
2tbsprice vinegar
1tbspsriracha,optional
1tbspWorcestershire sauce
1tspsesame oil,or more to taste
1½tbspgarlic,minced
1½tbspfresh ginger,peeled, minced
3lbschicken thighs,(use about 4 oz thighs, 9 pieces), boneless skinless, trimmed of visible fat
vegetable oil,or olive oil, for brushing grill grates

Instructions

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sriracha, Worcestershire, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
Season with a little salt and pepper, if preferred. Remove ¼ cup of the marinade to a bowl and refrigerate.
Place the chicken in a medium bowl or gallon size resealable bag. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, then toss to coat. Press down into marinade, then seal the bag while pressing out excess air.
Transfer to the refrigerator and let marinate for at least 2 hours and up to 8 hours.
Preheat a gas grill over medium heat. Clean the grill grates and brush with vegetable oil.
Grill the chicken on the preheated grill, turning and basting with reserved ¼ cup of marinade occasionally for approximately 15 minutes until it reaches 165 degrees F in the center. If chicken is not browning enough, increase heat near the end of grilling.
Serve warm garnished with green onions, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Optionally serve with coconut rice, fresh pineapple, and grilled mini peppers.

Nutrition

Calories: 399.94kcal
Fat: 28.18g
Saturated Fat: 7.08g
Trans Fat: 0.15g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.49g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.91g
Carbohydrates: 9.56g
Fiber: 0.15g
Sugar: 7.36g
Protein: 25.95g
Cholesterol: 148.17mg
Sodium: 742.33mg
Calcium: 24.44mg
Potassium: 406.65mg
Iron: 1.37mg
Vitamin A: 37.18µg
Vitamin C: 1.10mg

Expert Technique Tip for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

To achieve the perfect caramelization on your chicken, make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before marinating. This helps the marinade adhere better and promotes even browning on the grill.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Prepare the marinade in advance: Mix the ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sriracha, worcestershire sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use a resealable bag: Marinate the chicken thighs in a resealable bag for easy cleanup and even coating.

Preheat the grill while marinating: Start preheating your gas grill during the last 15 minutes of marinating to save time.

Double the marinade: Make extra marinade and freeze it for future use, cutting down prep time for your next meal.

Substitute Ingredients For Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste mixed with vinegar and sugar: This combination mimics the tangy and sweet flavor of ketchup.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari or coconut aminos: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative, and coconut aminos provide a similar umami flavor with less sodium.
light brown sugar - Substitute with honey or maple syrup: Both honey and maple syrup add sweetness and a slight depth of flavor.
rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and can provide a comparable tang.
sriracha - Substitute with hot sauce or chili paste: These alternatives provide the necessary heat and spice.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce mixed with a bit of lemon juice and sugar: This mixture can replicate the savory and slightly tangy flavor of Worcestershire sauce.
sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil with a few drops of toasted sesame seeds: Olive oil provides the necessary fat, and toasted sesame seeds add a similar nutty flavor.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder or shallots: Garlic powder provides a similar flavor, and shallots offer a milder, slightly sweet taste.
fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger or galangal: Ground ginger can provide a similar warmth, and galangal offers a comparable spicy and aromatic flavor.
chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken breasts or pork tenderloin: Both alternatives are lean proteins that can absorb the marinade well.
vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil or sunflower oil: Both oils have a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making them suitable for cooking.

Presenting Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken for Maximum Appeal

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken thighs in smaller, elegant portions to highlight the quality and flavor of the dish. Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and arrange them artfully on the plate.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with finely chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a touch of color and texture. Add a few edible flowers to elevate the visual appeal.
Create a sauce drizzle: Use the reserved ¼ cup of marinade to create a beautiful sauce drizzle on the plate. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the presentation.
Add a side element: Complement the huli huli chicken with a small side of pineapple salsa or a tropical fruit salad. This adds a refreshing contrast and ties in the Hawaiian theme.
Use high-quality plating: Serve the dish on a pristine white plate to make the colors of the chicken and garnishes pop. Ensure the plate is clean and free of smudges for a professional finish.
Incorporate height: Stack the chicken pieces slightly to add height to the presentation. This creates a more dynamic and visually appealing plate.
Balance the elements: Ensure that each plate has a balanced amount of chicken, garnish, and sauce. This ensures consistency and a well-rounded dining experience for each guest.
Add a touch of luxury: Finish the dish with a light drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of gold leaf for an extra touch of luxury and sophistication.

Essential Tools for Making Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Medium mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the marinade ingredients until well combined.
Whisk: Essential for blending the marinade ingredients smoothly.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the sriracha, Worcestershire sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic if you prefer not to chop it by hand.
Grater: Useful for grating the fresh ginger.
Medium bowl or gallon size resealable bag: For marinating the chicken in the prepared marinade.
Refrigerator: To marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours and up to 8 hours.
Gas grill: Preheated over medium heat for grilling the chicken.
Grill brush: For cleaning the grill grates before cooking.
Vegetable oil: To brush on the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Tongs: For turning the chicken on the grill.
Meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Serving platter: To serve the grilled chicken once it's cooked.
Knife: For garnishing with green onions before serving.
Cutting board: To chop the green onions for garnish.

Storing and Freezing Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken: A Guide

Once the hawaiian huli huli chicken has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze the hawaiian huli huli chicken, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Freeze the hawaiian huli huli chicken for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat the hawaiian huli huli chicken, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Alternatively, you can reheat the hawaiian huli huli chicken in the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
If you have leftover hawaiian huli huli chicken sauce, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can use the sauce to baste other grilled meats or as a dipping sauce for vegetables or rice.

How To Reheat Leftover Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover hawaiian huli huli chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevent it from drying out.
For a quick and easy reheat, use your microwave. Place the leftover chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as it can become rubbery.
If you have a bit more time, consider reheating your huli huli chicken on the stovetop. Place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan. Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method helps to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
For a crispy exterior, reheat your leftover chicken on the grill. Preheat your grill to medium heat and brush the grates with a bit of vegetable oil. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it's heated through and slightly crispy. Baste the chicken with some reserved huli huli sauce for extra flavor.
If you want to add a new twist to your leftover huli huli chicken, consider shredding it and using it as a topping for pizza, salads, or tacos. The sweet and savory flavors of the chicken pair well with a variety of dishes and can help to create a whole new meal.

Is Making Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken at Home Cost-Effective?

The Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken thighs, soy sauce, and ketchup are affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15-$20. Considering the rich flavors and satisfying portions, this recipe offers great value. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to some of its ingredients. Here's an analysis of the recipe:

The recipe contains a significant amount of sugar from the brown sugar and ketchup, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed regularly.
Soy sauce is high in sodium, and consuming too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems.
The recipe uses chicken thighs, which are higher in fat compared to leaner cuts like chicken breast.
On the positive side, the recipe includes some healthy ingredients like garlic, ginger, and sriracha, which offer various health benefits and add flavor without relying heavily on salt.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar and ketchup to decrease the overall sugar content. You can replace some of the sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Use low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on the salt content, or replace some of the soy sauce with coconut aminos for a healthier alternative.
Opt for skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs to reduce the fat content. If you prefer the flavor of chicken thighs, trim off any excess fat before marinating.
Increase the amount of garlic and ginger in the recipe, as they offer numerous health benefits and can help boost the flavor without relying on salt or sugar.
Serve the chicken with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad to add more nutrients and fiber to the meal.

Editor's Opinion on the Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

This huli huli chicken recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. The marinade, with its blend of ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sriracha, promises a rich and complex taste profile. Marinating the chicken for up to 8 hours ensures deep flavor penetration. Grilling adds a smoky char that complements the marinade beautifully. The reserved marinade for basting keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. Garnishing with green onions adds a fresh, vibrant touch. Overall, this recipe is well-balanced and sure to impress at any gathering.

Enhance Your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Pineapple Salsa: Elevate your Huli Huli Chicken with a vibrant Grilled Pineapple Salsa. The smoky sweetness of grilled pineapple combined with the zesty kick of jalapeños and the freshness of cilantro will transport your taste buds straight to the tropics. This salsa adds a refreshing contrast to the savory, caramelized chicken, making each bite an explosion of flavors.

Coconut Rice: Pair your Huli Huli Chicken with a fragrant bowl of Coconut Rice. The creamy, slightly sweet coconut milk infuses the rice with a rich, tropical aroma that complements the savory notes of the chicken. This side dish not only adds a touch of luxury to your meal but also balances the spiciness of the sriracha in the marinade.

Mango Avocado Salad: Brighten up your plate with a colorful Mango Avocado Salad. The creamy avocado and juicy mango create a delightful harmony of textures and flavors. Tossed with a light lime vinaigrette, this salad adds a refreshing, tangy element that perfectly complements the rich, savory chicken. It's like a burst of sunshine in every bite.

Sweet Potato Fries: For a hearty and satisfying side, serve your Huli Huli Chicken with a batch of crispy Sweet Potato Fries. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes enhances the caramelized flavors of the chicken, while their crispy exterior provides a delightful contrast to the tender meat. Sprinkle with a touch of sea salt and a dash of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.

Tropical Fruit Salad: Complete your Hawaiian feast with a refreshing Tropical Fruit Salad. A medley of pineapple, papaya, kiwi, and dragon fruit tossed in a light honey-lime dressing will cleanse your palate and provide a sweet, juicy counterpoint to the savory chicken. This vibrant salad is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight.

Delicious Alternatives to Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Dive into the savory world of teriyaki chicken skewers. These skewers are marinated in a delightful blend of soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar, then grilled to perfection. Serve with a side of steamed rice and grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Pineapple Glazed Chicken: Experience a burst of tropical flavors with pineapple glazed chicken. This dish features juicy chicken thighs coated in a sweet and tangy pineapple glaze, paired perfectly with coconut rice and a refreshing mango salsa.

Korean BBQ Chicken: Savor the rich and bold flavors of Korean BBQ chicken. Marinated in a mixture of gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil, this dish is grilled to a smoky finish. Serve with kimchi and pickled vegetables for an authentic experience.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: Enjoy the fresh and zesty taste of lemon herb grilled chicken. Marinated in a blend of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs, this dish is perfect for a light and healthy meal. Pair with a mixed greens salad and roasted potatoes.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Appetizers:

Spicy Tuna Tartare: Elevate your appetizer game with Spicy Tuna Tartare. This dish features finely diced sushi-grade tuna mixed with avocado, scallions, and a touch of soy sauce for umami richness. Add a kick with sriracha and a hint of lime juice for acidity. Serve on crispy wonton chips or cucumber slices for a refreshing crunch. Garnish with sesame seeds and microgreens for an elegant finish.

Coconut Shrimp: Transport your guests to a tropical paradise with Coconut Shrimp. Large shrimp are coated in a mixture of shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs, then fried to golden perfection. Serve with a sweet chili dipping sauce that balances the savory and sweet flavors. The crunchy exterior and juicy shrimp inside make this a crowd-pleaser. Garnish with lime wedges and a sprinkle of cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Desserts:

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Indulge in a tropical delight by creating a Pineapple Upside-Down Cake. This dessert features a caramelized pineapple topping that pairs perfectly with a moist, buttery cake. The pineapple rings and maraschino cherries not only add a burst of flavor but also make for a visually stunning presentation. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat that will transport your taste buds straight to the islands.

Coconut Haupia: Delight your guests with Coconut Haupia, a traditional Hawaiian dessert that is both simple and elegant. This creamy coconut pudding is silky smooth and has a delicate sweetness that makes it a perfect ending to any meal. Serve it in individual cups or cut into squares for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes or fresh tropical fruits like mango or passion fruit to add a pop of color and extra flavor.

Why trust this Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Recipe:

This Hawaiian huli huli chicken recipe is a must-try, blending sweet and savory flavors perfectly. The combination of ketchup, soy sauce, and brown sugar creates a rich marinade that tenderizes the chicken thighs beautifully. Marinating for up to 8 hours ensures deep flavor penetration. Grilling adds a smoky char, enhancing the dish's authenticity. Trust this recipe for its balance of ingredients and straightforward instructions, promising a delicious and satisfying meal.

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FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken?

I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours, but if you have the time, letting it sit for up to 8 hours will really let the flavors soak in.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that they might cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on the internal temperature to make sure they reach 165 degrees F.

What if I don't have a grill?

No worries! You can cook the chicken in a grill pan on the stovetop or even bake it in the oven at 375 degrees F until it reaches the right internal temperature.

Is there a substitute for sriracha if I don't like spicy food?

If you're not a fan of spice, you can leave out the sriracha or replace it with a milder hot sauce or even a little extra ketchup for sweetness.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make the marinade ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days before using it.