Huli Huli Chicken

There’s something incredibly inviting about the aroma of Huli Huli Chicken wafting through the kitchen. I remember the first time I made it; it was a warm summer evening, and I had invited friends over for a cookout. As I marinated the chicken in a luscious blend of flavors, anticipation filled the air. The sweet and smoky notes of the marinade promised a delicious meal, and I could hardly wait to share it with my loved ones. This dish isn’t just about the food; it’s about the memories we create around the table. As we gathered to feast, the vibrant colors and tantalizing smells made it clear that Huli Huli Chicken was destined to be a hit. It’s a recipe that brings warmth and joy, turning any meal into a celebration.

Ingredients Overview for Huli Huli Chicken

The ingredients for Huli Huli Chicken come together to create a mouthwatering and harmonious flavor experience. Each component plays a vital role, working in synergy to deliver the perfect bite. The star of the dish, the chicken, is complemented by a tangy marinade that brings out its best.

• 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (8 to 10 thighs) – These chicken thighs are the perfect choice for this recipe, providing a juicy and tender base that absorbs the marinade beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil – This adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated – A must-have for that zesty kick, enhancing the flavor with its warm and aromatic qualities.
• 2 large cloves garlic – Adds depth and richness to the marinade, creating a wonderful savory profile.
• ½ cup coconut aminos – This alternative to soy sauce brings a slightly sweet and salty balance to the dish.
• 3 tablespoons ketchup – Adds sweetness and a touch of acidity, rounding out the flavor of the marinade.
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar – Provides a tangy punch that brightens the dish and balances the sweetness.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Enhances all the flavors, giving a slight kick.

How to Cook Huli Huli Chicken

Cooking Huli Huli Chicken is as enjoyable as eating it. Let’s dive into the steps to make this delicious dish that will have your guests asking for seconds. Follow along carefully, and soon, you’ll have a plate full of flavor.

1. Start by preparing the marinade. Transfer the marinade ingredients, including the sesame oil, ginger, garlic, coconut aminos, ketchup, rice vinegar, and black pepper, to a small blender. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency. If you don’t own a small blender, you can mix the ingredients in a bowl, making sure to mince the garlic and ginger first.
2. Next, take your raw chicken thighs and place them in a large zip lock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal the bag tightly. Gently massage the bag to ensure all pieces of chicken are well-coated in the marinade. It’s essential to let this sit; refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 15 minutes, but ideally for a few hours or even up to 24 hours for more intense flavor.
3. When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is perfect for baking the chicken and achieving a nice char.
4. Transfer the marinated chicken along with the marinade to a large baking dish with deep sides. Arrange the chicken in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
5. Place the baking dish on the center rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. As the chicken cooks, it will release flavorful juices, enhancing the overall taste.
6. After baking, remove the chicken from the oven. Using a spoon or baster, baste the chicken with the pan juices. This step is vital for keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
7. Now, switch your oven to the high broil setting. Broil the chicken for an additional 5 to 8 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of char. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning; the charred bits add a wonderful smoky flavor.
8. Check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs. They should reach at least 180 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh for an accurate reading.
9. Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps retain moisture within the chicken. Serve the Huli Huli Chicken with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy the delicious flavors!
10. If you want extra sauce, feel free to prepare additional marinade and reserve some in a jar for serving.
11. If grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 450 degrees Fahrenheit). For charcoal grilling, use a chimney to heat the charcoal until hot, then arrange some coals for indirect heat.
12. Place the marinated chicken thighs on the hot grill and cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown with nice grill marks.
13. Move the chicken to the cooler side of the grill and continue cooking over indirect heat. Flip occasionally until the internal temperature reaches at least 180 degrees Fahrenheit, checking with a digital thermometer for best results.
14. Drizzle the reserved marinade over the chicken or over rice when serving. For a finishing touch, consider garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Customization Ideas

One of the best parts of cooking is making recipes your own! Here are some ways you can customize your Huli Huli Chicken to fit your taste.

• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter marinade, add a bit more ketchup or a touch of honey.
• Add spice: For a spicy kick, consider adding chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade.
• Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions can enhance the flavors and add freshness to your dish.
• Pair with different sides: Serve with coconut rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the chicken.
• Try different cooking methods: If you’re not in the mood to grill or bake, consider stir-frying or using an air fryer for a quick meal.
• Use other proteins: Feel free to use the marinade on other proteins like turkey or tofu for a different twist.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Marinated chicken can be frozen before cooking. Just make sure to thaw it before grilling or baking.
• Pairing: Huli Huli Chicken pairs beautifully with grilled corn, rice dishes, or a refreshing pineapple salsa.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving Huli Huli Chicken, the possibilities are endless. Below are some recommendations on how to complement this dish with side dishes and occasions.

• Coconut Rice: This pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy flavors of Huli Huli Chicken, soaking up the delicious marinade.
• Grilled Vegetables: Colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and corn add a fresh touch and a nice crunch to your meal.
• Fruit Salsa: A refreshing mango or pineapple salsa can provide a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
• Perfect for Summer Cookouts: This dish is ideal for summer gatherings. Serve it at barbecues or potlucks for a guaranteed hit.
• Casual Weeknight Dinner: It’s also great for a cozy weeknight meal when you want something quick yet flavorful.
• Meal Prep: Consider making a double batch for meal prep. The leftovers are just as tasty, making for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Storage Tips: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Seasonal Pairing: In the summer, serve with a side of coleslaw and fresh fruit salad for a refreshing meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Huli Huli Chicken is a dish that brings joy and flavor to any table. With its delectable marinade and juicy meat, it’s sure to be a favorite for gatherings or quiet nights at home. I highly encourage you to try making this recipe; your taste buds will thank you! It’s easy to prepare and absolutely delicious—perfect for any occasion!

Huli Huli Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Huli Huli Chicken is a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion! With juicy chicken thighs marinated in a tantalizing mix of flavors, it's an easy weeknight dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds. Try it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Hawaiian

Servings 8 servings

Calories 430 kcal

Equipment

• Large Casserole Dish
• Digital Thermometer
• Small Blender

Ingredients

  

• 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (8 to 10 thighs)
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
• 2 large cloves garlic
• ½ cup coconut aminos *
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

 

• Start by preparing the marinade. Transfer the marinade ingredients, including the sesame oil, ginger, garlic, coconut aminos, ketchup, rice vinegar, and black pepper, to a small blender. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency. If you don’t own a small blender, you can mix the ingredients in a bowl, making sure to mince the garlic and ginger first.
• Next, take your raw chicken thighs and place them in a large zip lock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal the bag tightly. Gently massage the bag to ensure all pieces of chicken are well-coated in the marinade. It’s essential to let this sit; refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 15 minutes, but ideally for a few hours or even up to 24 hours for more intense flavor.
• When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is perfect for baking the chicken and achieving a nice char.
• Transfer the marinated chicken along with the marinade to a large baking dish with deep sides. Arrange the chicken in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
• Place the baking dish on the center rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. As the chicken cooks, it will release flavorful juices, enhancing the overall taste.
• After baking, remove the chicken from the oven. Using a spoon or baster, baste the chicken with the pan juices. This step is vital for keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
• Now, switch your oven to the high broil setting. Broil the chicken for an additional 5 to 8 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of char. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning; the charred bits add a wonderful smoky flavor.
• Check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs. They should reach at least 180 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh for an accurate reading.
• Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps retain moisture within the chicken. Serve the Huli Huli Chicken with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy the delicious flavors!
• If you want extra sauce, feel free to prepare additional marinade and reserve some in a jar for serving.
• If grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 450 degrees Fahrenheit). For charcoal grilling, use a chimney to heat the charcoal until hot, then arrange some coals for indirect heat.
• Place the marinated chicken thighs on the hot grill and cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown with nice grill marks.
• Move the chicken to the cooler side of the grill and continue cooking over indirect heat. Flip occasionally until the internal temperature reaches at least 180 degrees Fahrenheit, checking with a digital thermometer for best results.
• Drizzle the reserved marinade over the chicken or over rice when serving. For a finishing touch, consider garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Notes

• Tip 1: Replace the coconut aminos with low-sodium soy sauce or liquid aminos. Also add 2 Tbsp brown sugar or pure maple syrup, as coconut aminos are naturally sweet.

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Meet Maya Carlson

I believe that every dish tells a story through its colors and textures. I apply my artistic eye to everything we make. I love being hands-on with every recipe, helping to plate a savory stew just as beautifully as a dessert. I enjoy the challenge of making every single genre of food look as good as it tastes. If we are cooking, I am right there in the mix, styling and seasoning until it’s perfect.