Escape to the tropics with every bite of this yummy huli huli chicken! If you’ve ever longed for the vibrant tastes of Hawaii, this recipe delivers. This celebrated dish features grilled chicken, shining with a sweet and savory glaze – a true culinary icon of the islands. You’ll often find it sizzling at roadside stands, offering an unforgettable flavor experience.
The name “huli huli” originates from the Hawaiian language, where “huli” means “to turn.” This refers to the cooking technique of constantly rotating the chicken on the grill, ensuring it’s beautifully browned and evenly cooked. Don’t let the name intimidate you – crafting this restaurant-quality meal at home is surprisingly straightforward.
This recipe brings the warm, inviting flavors of a Hawaiian getaway directly to your kitchen. It’s perfect for a relaxed family dinner, a lively summer cookout, or whenever you desire a taste of the islands. Skip the takeout and experience the joy of creating authentic huli huli chicken with a handful of simple ingredients and a little dedication. Prepare for a burst of flavor!
A Taste of the Islands
I vividly recall our honeymoon on Maui – the air was continually filled with the mouthwatering scent of huli huli chicken. We stumbled upon a small, unassuming stall near the beach, and that initial bite was pure magic. The harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and smoky notes instantly transported me. I’ve been on a quest to recapture that feeling ever since, and this recipe gets me closer with every attempt.
Gathering Your Ingredients for Huli Huli Chicken
Let’s assemble everything you’ll need to make this incredible yummy huli huli chicken a reality. Don’t feel overwhelmed by the list; many of these ingredients are likely already in your pantry. Having everything prepared in advance will simplify the cooking process.
The Marinade Ingredients
The marinade is key to unlocking the exceptional flavor! Here’s a complete list:
- ½ cup soy sauce (reduced sodium is recommended)
- ½ cup firmly packed brown sugar
- ½ cup pineapple juice (ensure it’s 100% juice, not concentrate)
- ¼ cup freshly grated ginger
- 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of spice)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for enhanced sweetness and glaze)
Using freshly grated ginger is crucial for optimal flavor. The five-spice powder is also essential; it contributes a unique aromatic complexity that defines huli huli chicken.
The Chicken & Optional Extras
For the chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 3-4 pounds), or about 2-2.5 pounds of chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks are excellent choices!)
Enhance your dish with these optional additions:
- 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced (for a vibrant garnish)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced (to grill alongside the chicken, adding a delightful sweetness)
- Additional red pepper flakes (for extra heat, if desired)
Making the Magic: The Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Now comes the exciting part – bringing all these exciting flavors together! Remember, patience is key: a slow and steady cooking process is the secret to truly exceptional huli huli chicken.
Preparing the Marinade
In a sizable bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, five-spice powder, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), and honey (if desired). Thoroughly whisk everything until the brown sugar is completely dissolved. Achieving a smooth marinade is important to avoid a grainy texture on the chicken. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings to your preference, perhaps adding more ginger or garlic.
Marinating the Chicken
Transfer the whole chicken or chicken pieces to a large, resealable bag or a non-reactive container—glass or ceramic works best. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every surface is coated. Gently massage the marinade into the chicken, even lifting the skin to get it underneath. Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, but ideally overnight. The longer it marinates, the more intense the flavor will become!
Grilling the Chicken
Prepare your grill for medium-low heat—around 325-350°F (160-175°C). If utilizing a charcoal grill, establish a two-zone fire, with one area featuring more coals than the other. This enables you to relocate the chicken to a cooler zone should it begin to brown too rapidly.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and position it on the grill. For a whole chicken, grill for approximately 15-20 minutes per side; for individual pieces, aim for 8-10 minutes per side. *This is where the “huli” technique comes into play!* Frequently flip the chicken (every 5-7 minutes) to promote even cooking and prevent burning.
Consistently baste the chicken with the reserved marinade throughout the grilling process. This is what creates that beautiful, caramelized glaze. Exercise caution to avoid over-basting, as the sugar in the marinade can burn. If the chicken is browning too quickly, shift it to the cooler section of the grill. For more grilling tips and ideas, check out our dinner appetizer section.
Checking for Doneness
This is the most critical step to ensure a safe and delicious result! Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached the correct internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, taking care to avoid touching the bone.
- A whole chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Individual chicken pieces also need to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If the chicken hasn’t achieved the desired temperature, continue grilling, flipping and basting as needed. Once it’s cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving. Allowing the chicken to rest ensures the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Enjoy your yummy huli huli chicken!
Tips, Tricks & Variations for Perfect Huli Huli Chicken
You’ve mastered the core recipe, now let’s unlock even more potential! Here are some tips and variations to personalize your yummy huli huli chicken and elevate it to the next level.
Mastering the Glaze
Craving an even more luscious, intensely flavored glaze? In the last 15-20 minutes of grilling, reserve about ¼ cup of the marinade and simmer it in a small saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to reduce slightly, concentrating the flavors and creating a beautifully glossy finish. As an alternative, whisk 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and incorporate it into the simmering marinade for a thicker glaze. A final drizzle of honey during the last few minutes adds extra shine and sweetness.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Don’t have a grill? No problem at all! You can effortlessly bake this chicken in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 60-75 minutes for a whole chicken, or 30-40 minutes for chicken pieces, basting with the marinade every 20 minutes. For a smoky twist, consider using a smoker! Smoke at 250°F (120°C) for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Spice Level & Flavor Adjustments
Like to turn up the heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more red pepper flakes to the marinade. For a more pronounced pineapple flavor, incorporate a handful of crushed pineapple chunks into the marinade. You could also substitute some of the pineapple juice with pureed fresh pineapple. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can introduce an additional layer of savory complexity.
My Family’s Secret Touch
My husband, Mark, always adds a tablespoon of brown sugar to the marinade *immediately* before grilling. He insists it dramatically enhances the caramelization of the skin. It’s a small detail, but it makes a noticeable difference!
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about preparing this yummy huli huli chicken? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions.
What temperature is huli huli chicken done?
Prioritizing safety is paramount! To ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked and safe to consume, it must reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The most reliable method of checking this is with a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest portion of the thigh, avoiding contact with the bone. Remember, relying on color alone isn’t a foolproof indicator – always use a thermometer for accuracy.
What is the flavor of Hawaiian chicken?
Huli huli chicken offers a uniquely delightful flavor profile. It’s characterized by a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy notes. The soy sauce contributes umami and saltiness, while the pineapple juice and brown sugar provide sweetness. Fresh ginger introduces a warming, aromatic spice, resulting in a complex and incredibly addictive flavor combination.
What goes well with huli huli chicken?
This chicken is remarkably versatile and complements a variety of side dishes. Classic Hawaiian accompaniments pair beautifully, such as fluffy white rice (ideal for soaking up the flavorful sauce!), creamy macaroni salad, and a vibrant pineapple salsa. Steamed broccoli or green beans serve as a healthy counterpoint, and Hawaiian rolls are perfect for creating mini chicken sliders.
How do you describe huli huli chicken?
Huli huli chicken is a flavorful, juicy, and slightly caramelized grilled chicken, celebrated for its sweet and savory glaze. The name “huli” itself means “to turn” in Hawaiian, reflecting the technique of continuously rotating the chicken during grilling – a key step to achieving even cooking and a gorgeous, lacquered appearance. It’s a true taste of paradise!
Serving Suggestions & Storage
To beautifully present your yummy huli huli chicken, consider serving it with a bright and colorful Hawaiian-inspired fruit salad featuring pineapple, mango, papaya, and kiwi. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions adds a final touch of elegance.
For leftovers, store the remaining chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s delicious cold in sandwiches or salads, or simply reheated. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal!
For more information about healthy cooking practices, see this article on Healthline. And to explore even more delicious chicken recipes, check out Healthline’s guide to the best chicken recipes.