Introduction
Let’s take a flavorful journey to the Hawaiian islands with this delightful recipe for Huli Huli Chicken! Known for its sweet and savory marinade, this dish is a tropical explosion of taste that’s sure to impress your family or guests. The juicy chicken thighs, kissed by the grill, become rich and smoky, while the marinade infuses every bite with a burst of flavor. Perfect for summer barbecues or any time you want to bring a taste of the tropics to your table!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Green onions, chopped for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to create a luscious marinade that smells heavenly!
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the flavors meld in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or even better, overnight. This step infuses the chicken with a rich flavor.
- When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Get that grill nice and hot for the perfect sear!
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Don’t discard the marinade just yet; you’ll want to reserve some for basting later.
- Place the chicken on the grill, skin side down. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the skin to get golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully flip the chicken over and baste with the reserved marinade. Grill for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has beautiful grill marks.
- Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
- Before serving, garnish the grilled chicken with freshly chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy!
Notes or Tips
For an even more intense flavor, let your chicken marinate overnight. If you can’t grill, you can bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 375°F for around 30-35 minutes, until fully cooked. Feel free to adjust the spiciness by adding more or less red pepper flakes to suit your taste!
Cooking Techniques
The secret to perfectly grilled chicken lies in proper marination and temperature control. Allowing the chicken to marinate not only enhances flavor but also helps keep it juicy during cooking. Always preheat your grill to ensure a great sear, and remember to let your chicken rest post-grilling — this is key for locking in those delicious juices!
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can certainly use chicken breasts, but be mindful of cooking times, as they may cook faster than thighs.
What can I serve with Huli Huli Chicken?
This flavorful chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Huli Huli Chicken is more than just a dish; it’s a vibrant celebration of flavor that will transport your taste buds straight to Hawaii. As you take that first bite, the blend of sweet and savory notes will surely evoke sunny memories of beach picnics and warm tropical breezes. So gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and enjoy a piece of paradise right at home!