Savor the tropical essence of Huli Huli chicken, a mouthwatering culinary creation that takes your taste buds on a Hawaiian journey. Whether you choose to grill or air fry, this recipe promises a symphony of flavors that will have you coming back for more.
Table of Contents
Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Unveiling the Ingredients: A Dance of Flavors
Ingredients:
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 cup soy sauce (preferably reduced sodium)
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon fresh ginger root, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3–4 teaspoons rice vinegar
2 teaspoons sesame oil
12 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, equivalent to approximately 3 pounds in weight.
Green onions or jalapeo slices for garnish
Pineapple slices for garnish
Crafting the Tropical Marinade
Mixing the Marinade: Combine all the ingredients in a bowl except for the chicken, green onions, and pineapple. This delightful mixture of flavors sets the stage for Huli Huli magic.
Reserving the Marinade: Set aside 1 cup of the marinade. This special portion will be used to brush on the chicken during the cooking process, infusing it with the essence of the tropics.
Marinating the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a ziplock bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and ensure the marinade coats the chicken evenly. For the best taste, let the chicken marinate for a few hours or even overnight, allowing the flavors to intertwine.
Choosing Your Culinary Path: Grill or Air Fry
Grilling or air-frying: This is where the magic happens. Grill or air fry the marinated chicken at 365 degrees Fahrenheit for 15–18 minutes. As the chicken cooks, make sure to baste it frequently with the reserved marinade. This step locks in the flavors, creating a deliciously tender and aromatic result.
The Tropical Finale: A Plate of Paradise
Serving the Delight: The culmination of your efforts is a plate adorned with succulent Huli Huli chicken. Enhance the experience by serving it with grilled pineapple, vibrant green onions, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a touch of jalapeño for that extra kick of flavor.
Conclusion: Your Culinary Passport to Hawaii
Indulging in Huli Huli chicken is like taking a culinary trip to the Hawaiian Islands. The harmonious blend of sweet and savory notes, combined with the tenderness of perfectly cooked chicken, offers an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you opt for the grill or the air fryer, the result is a dish that transports your taste buds to paradise. So, gather your ingredients, ignite your grill or air fryer, and embark on a journey that celebrates the fusion of flavors and the spirit of aloha.
Huli-Huli Chicken Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with marinade
- Calories: Around 270
- Protein: Approximately 23 grams
- Fat: Roughly 12 grams
- Carbohydrates: About 16 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 0.3 grams
- Sugars: Around 12 grams
Please remember that these values are estimated averages and can vary based on factors such as portion size, brand of ingredients, and cooking methods.
About Huli Huli Chicken
Huli Huli Chicken, a culinary gem hailing from the Hawaiian Islands, is more than just a dish—it’s a cultural phenomenon that has enchanted taste buds around the world. The name “Huli Huli” itself holds significance, as it translates to “turn turn” in Hawaiian, a nod to the traditional rotisserie-style cooking method that imparts the chicken with its distinctive flavor.
This tropical delight takes you on a journey to Hawaii’s vibrant landscapes, where the sun-kissed flavors of pineapple, soy sauce, and ginger converge in perfect harmony. As you savor each succulent bite, you’re transported to sandy beaches and swaying palm trees, embracing the spirit of Aloha.
Huli Huli Chicken isn’t just a recipe; it’s a tradition that embodies community and celebration. Often prepared for fundraisers and gatherings, its irresistible aroma wafting through the air draws people together. The genius lies in the marinade—a blend of ketchup, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other delectable ingredients that create a symphony of taste.
The dish’s popularity has sparked variations beyond chicken, showcasing its versatile nature. Pork, beef, and even tofu have taken on the Huli Huli treatment, each with its own delectable twist.
Incorporate this recipe into your culinary repertoire, and you’re not just cooking—you’re preserving a cultural legacy. From backyard barbecues to family feasts, Huli Huli Chicken brings people closer, making every meal a memorable occasion filled with the essence of the tropics.