Huli Huli Chicken
A captivating Hawaiian dish featuring char-grilled marinated chicken thighs with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4-5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs Tender and flavorful, perfect for grilling.
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar Adds delightful sweetness.
- 1/2 cup ketchup Provides a rich sauce.
- 1/2 cup light soy sauce Enhances umami taste.
- 1/2 cup canned pineapple juice Key player in tropical sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste or minced ginger Brings warmth and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste or minced garlic Adds depth and aroma.
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Provides a tangy kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper A touch of heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika Adds depth and smokiness.
For Grilling
- 1 pineapple pineapple rings or 1 can of slices, drained Grilled alongside chicken.
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the chicken thighs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a large bowl or gallon-size Ziploc bag, combine all ingredients except the chicken and pineapple rings.
- Mix the ingredients well to ensure a good blend of flavors.
- Remove 1/2 cup of the sauce mixture and set it aside for serving later.
- Add the chicken thighs to the remaining sauce, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
- Cover the bowl or seal the bag, and refrigerate to marinate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Cooking
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F) and lightly oil the grates.
- Grill the marinated chicken thighs for about 10 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Discard the used marinade post-grilling.
- For the finishing touch, grill the pineapple rings alongside the chicken until they become golden and caramelized.
- Remove the chicken and pineapple from the grill, and reheat the reserved marinade slightly. Brush it over the chicken before serving.
Notes
Marinate the chicken overnight for optimal flavor infusion. If grilling is not an option, bake the marinated chicken at 375°F for 30-40 minutes, basting with reserved marinade. Feel free to experiment with the sauce by adding your favorite spices or hot sauce for extra heat.