The Hawaiian Huli Chicken Recipe

on

 Huli chicken is a beloved Hawaiian dish that translates to "turning chicken." This method involves continuously turning the chicken over an open fire, resulting in incredibly juicy and flavorful meat. The smoky aroma and unique blend of sweet and savory flavors make it a true taste of paradise.  

Ingredients:

  • For the Chicken:

    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)

    • 1/4 cup soy sauce

    • 1/4 cup pineapple juice

    • 1/4 cup honey

    • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

    • 2 tablespoons olive oil

    • 2 cloves garlic, minced

    • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

    • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Add chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

  2. Prepare the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).

  3. Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F.

  4. Huli the Chicken: This is where the magic happens! Continuously turn the chicken every 2-3 minutes using tongs or a skewer. This constant turning helps to caramelize the sugars and create a beautiful crust while keeping the chicken moist.

  5. Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through and beautifully browned, remove it from the grill. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and Variations:

  • For extra flavor: Add a touch of teriyaki sauce to the marinade.

  • Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

  • Grilling Alternatives: If you don't have a grill, you can broil the chicken in the oven.  

  • Side Dishes: Serve huli chicken with grilled pineapple, rice, and a side salad for a complete Hawaiian feast.

Huli chicken is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that's perfect for summer barbecues or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. So fire up the grill and enjoy this taste of paradise!