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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I like using bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor, but boneless thighs are quick to cook and easier to handle. If you prefer, you can also use chicken breasts, but they may need more marinade time to stay moist.
Soy Sauce: A key flavor in this dish! Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness. If you need a gluten-free option, tamari works great! For a different kick, try coconut aminos.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice gives the best flavor, but canned works if fresh isn’t available. In a pinch, other fruit juices like orange juice can add a nice twist.
Brown Sugar: This adds a deeper sweetness. If you’re out, white sugar or honey can be substituted, but adjust the amount since honey is sweeter than brown sugar.
Rice Vinegar: Rice vinegar offers a milder flavor. You can replace it with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar, but be cautious with the amount to avoid overpowering the dish.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is your secret weapon for juicy, flavorful chicken! Here are some steps to follow:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Whisk them well to mix flavors.
- Submerge the chicken in the marinade. I recommend using a resealable plastic bag to make flipping the chicken easy.
- Seal and refrigerate. Letting it sit for at least 2 hours is good, but overnight lets the flavors really sink in.
- Before grilling, remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Don’t toss the marinade—you’ll baste with it later!
This method will help ensure your Huli Huli Chicken is full of great flavor and stays nice and juicy on the grill!
How to Make Huli Huli Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- Pineapple rings (for grilling)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a minimum of 2 hours for marinating. Cooking on the grill will take around 15-20 minutes. So, in total, plan for about 2 hours and 35 minutes to enjoy this grilled delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This delicious mixture will be your marinade, giving the chicken that amazing flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly and refrigerate. Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, but for the best flavor, overnight is perfect!
3. Grill Time:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat the grill to a medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Keep the leftover marinade aside for basting while grilling.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). In the last 5 minutes of cooking, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade for extra flavor!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
While the chicken is grilling, add the pineapple rings to the grill. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they have grill marks and are nicely caramelized. This adds a sweet touch to your meal!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is cooked through, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve your Huli Huli Chicken garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if you’d like. Don’t forget the grilled pineapple rings and some rice on the side for a complete meal. Enjoy your flavorful and tropical feast!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While thighs are recommended for their flavor and juiciness, you can also use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Just be mindful of the cooking time—breasts may cook a bit faster, while larger pieces like drumsticks may take a little longer. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
How to Marinate Chicken Overnight?
To marinate chicken overnight, simply prepare it as directed in the recipe, making sure that the chicken is completely submerged in the marinade. Use a resealable plastic bag to save space and ensure even coverage. When ready to cook, just remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling for best results!
Can I Substitute Ingredients in the Marinade?
Yes, you can! For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. If you don’t have pineapple juice, orange juice works as a great substitute for that tropical flavor. For those cutting down on sugar, you can use a sugar substitute that works for baking or reduce the amount of brown sugar.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Huli Huli Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a splash of pineapple juice can help restore some of the moisture and flavor!
