Huli Huli Chicken is a popular Hawaiian dish known for its sweet and savory flavors. The term “huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the traditional method of cooking the chicken on a spit and turning it during grilling. This recipe offers a delightful blend of pineapple, soy sauce, and ginger, making it a perfect choice for a flavorful dinner.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice
½ cup soy sauce
½ cup brown sugar
⅓ cup ketchup
¼ cup chicken broth
2 teaspoons fresh ginger root, grated
1½ teaspoons minced garlic
Sliced green onions, for garnish

Directions

Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, chicken broth, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to infuse.
Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium heat.
Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting. Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 6–8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). While grilling, baste the chicken occasionally with the reserved marinade to enhance the flavor.
Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts Per serving:

Calories: 288 kcal
Carbohydrates: 17 g
Protein: 36 g
Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Cholesterol: 143 mg
Sodium: 813 mg
Potassium: 508 mg
Sugar: 15 g
Vitamin A: 215 IU
Vitamin C: 6 mg
Calcium: 45 mg
Iron: 2 mg

The History and Origins of Huli Huli Chicken

Huli Huli Chicken is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine, known for its tantalizing blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. The term “Huli Huli” was coined by Ernest Morgado, a businessman of Portuguese and Japanese descent, in the 1950s. The word “huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian, which perfectly describes the cooking process. Traditionally, the chicken was cooked on a rotisserie and continuously turned over an open flame to achieve a delicious charred crust while staying juicy inside. Originally, Morgado prepared this dish for a farmer’s gathering, where it became an instant hit. He later trademarked the name “Huli Huli” and began selling the chicken at fundraisers, turning it into one of Hawaii’s most beloved street foods. Even today, Huli Huli Chicken is commonly found at roadside stands and community events across the Hawaiian islands.

What Makes Huli Huli Chicken Unique?

What sets Huli Huli Chicken apart from other grilled chicken recipes is its irresistible marinade. The key ingredients—pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic—create a well-balanced mix of sweet, salty, and umami flavors. The pineapple juice helps tenderize the chicken, while the soy sauce provides a deep, savory taste. Brown sugar enhances caramelization during grilling, giving the chicken its signature glaze. Another unique aspect of this dish is its cooking method. While traditional Huli Huli Chicken is cooked on a rotisserie, home cooks can achieve similar results using a grill. The secret lies in frequent basting and flipping, which allows the marinade to form a flavorful crust while keeping the meat juicy.

The Influence of Asian and Hawaiian Flavors

Huli Huli Chicken is a perfect representation of Hawaii’s diverse culinary influences. The islands are home to a melting pot of cultures, and this dish showcases strong Japanese and Polynesian influences. The use of soy sauce and ginger is a direct nod to Japanese cuisine, while pineapple juice adds a tropical Hawaiian touch. During the 19th and 20th centuries, waves of immigrants from Japan, China, the Philippines, and Portugal arrived in Hawaii to work on sugarcane and pineapple plantations. As they settled, they introduced their own cooking techniques and flavors, which eventually merged with traditional Hawaiian ingredients. This fusion of cultures gave birth to dishes like Huli Huli Chicken, which remains a favorite in Hawaiian barbecue cuisine.

Pairing Huli Huli Chicken with Side Dishes

Huli Huli Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it a versatile meal for gatherings and family dinners. Here are some classic Hawaiian-inspired sides to serve with it:

Steamed White Rice: A simple yet essential side, white rice helps balance the bold flavors of the chicken.
Macaroni Salad: A creamy Hawaiian-style macaroni salad adds a cool and refreshing contrast to the smoky chicken.
Grilled Pineapple: The natural sweetness of grilled pineapple complements the caramelized glaze on the chicken.
Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: Soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, these rolls are perfect for soaking up extra marinade and juices.
Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw with a light dressing provides a nice textural contrast to the tender chicken.

Health Benefits of Huli Huli Chicken

Despite its rich flavors, Huli Huli Chicken can be a relatively healthy dish, especially when grilled instead of fried. Here are some of the health benefits:

High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build muscle and supports overall body functions.
Low in Saturated Fat: Using skinless chicken thighs or breasts reduces the amount of unhealthy fats in the dish.
Rich in Antioxidants: Garlic and ginger, two key ingredients in the marinade, have powerful antioxidant properties that support immune health.
Natural Tenderizing from Pineapple Juice: Bromelain, an enzyme in pineapple juice, helps break down proteins, making the chicken more tender while aiding digestion.

Tips for Achieving the Best Grilled Huli Huli Chicken

Making perfect Huli Huli Chicken at home requires a few essential techniques. Follow these tips to get the best results:

Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Let the chicken marinate for at least 8 hours or overnight to ensure the flavors fully penetrate the meat.
Use a Hot Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat to create the perfect sear while locking in juices.
Baste Frequently: Brush the chicken with the reserved marinade as it cooks to build layers of caramelized flavor.
Turn Often: True to its name, keep turning the chicken to cook it evenly and prevent burning.
Let It Rest: After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its juiciness.

Variations of Huli Huli Chicken

While the classic recipe remains a favorite, there are several variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:

Huli Huli Chicken Wings: Instead of full chicken thighs, use wings for a fun appetizer or party dish.
Spicy Huli Huli Chicken: Add crushed red pepper or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Huli Huli Chicken Skewers: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and grill them on skewers for an easy-to-eat dish.
Oven-Baked Huli Huli Chicken: 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, basting occasionally.

Conclusion

Huli Huli Grilled Chicken is more than just a delicious meal—it’s a cultural icon in Hawaiian cuisine. Its origins, influenced by Hawaiian, Japanese, and Polynesian flavors, make it a unique and flavorful dish that continues to be loved worldwide. Whether served at a backyard barbecue, a casual weeknight dinner, or a festive gathering, Huli Huli Chicken never fails to impress.

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