Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *quick huli huli chicken*! This dish is like a tropical getaway right on your dinner plate. Seriously, it’s packed with flavor and comes together in no time at all, which is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The sweet and tangy marinade, thanks to the pineapple juice and brown sugar, perfectly complements the juicy chicken thighs. Trust me, once you taste this, you’ll be dreaming of Hawaii!
What I love most is that you can whip it up in just 45 minutes, with only 30 minutes of that being marinade time. So, if you’re looking for a quick and easy meal that still feels special, huli huli chicken is your answer! Get ready to impress your family or friends with this easy grilling recipe that brings a burst of sunshine to your table.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create your mouthwatering quick huli huli chicken. Make sure to gather these ingredients before you start, so you’re ready to go!
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless for juicy grilling
- 1/4 cup soy sauce, for that savory depth of flavor
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice, bringing the sweet tropical vibe
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, to balance the tanginess perfectly
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced, for that aromatic kick
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced, adding a warm zing
- 1 tablespoon ketchup, just a touch for extra richness
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil, giving it a nutty finish
These ingredients come together to create a delightful marinade that you’ll love, so don’t skip any of them! Each one plays a role in making this dish a fast favorite.
How to Prepare Quick Huli Huli Chicken
Alright, let’s dive into the steps to make this fantastic quick huli huli chicken! It’s super easy, and I’m here to guide you through the process. You’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time!
Step 1: Create the Marinade
First things first, let’s whip up that amazing marinade! In a medium bowl, mix together the following ingredients:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Stir it all together until the brown sugar is dissolved, and you’ve got yourself a sweet and savory marinade that will make your chicken sing!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Now, it’s time to let that chicken soak up all those delicious flavors. Take your 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs and add them to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure they’re well-coated! I like to use my hands for this—just make sure they’re clean, of course! Let the chicken sit in the marinade for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial because it infuses the chicken with all that tasty goodness.
Step 3: Prepare the Grill
While the chicken is marinating, let’s get our grill ready! Preheat it to medium-high heat. This is super important because you want that perfect sear on your chicken. If you don’t have a grill, you can also use a grill pan on the stovetop!
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Once your grill is nice and hot, it’s time to cook the chicken! Place the marinated chicken thighs right on the grill. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re fully cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, just make sure the juices run clear when you cut into them—no pink should be showing!
Step 5: Rest and Serve
After grilling, resist the urge to dive right in! Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken even more tender and juicy. Serve it up with some fluffy rice to soak up all that marinade goodness, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’ll impress everyone at the table!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness of this quick huli huli chicken! Keep in mind, these values are estimates based on typical ingredients used, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying:
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 20g
This dish is not only delicious but also packs a protein punch, making it a satisfying choice for any meal. Plus, it’s gluten-free, so it fits into various dietary needs! Enjoy your huli huli chicken without any guilt!
Tips for Success
Ready to take your quick huli huli chicken to the next level? Here are some of my favorite pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger really elevate the flavor of your marinade, so don’t skimp on freshness!
- Don’t Rush the Marinade: If you can, let the chicken marinate longer than 30 minutes. Even an hour or two will make the flavors even more pronounced.
- Check Your Grill Temperature: A properly preheated grill will give you those beautiful grill marks and a nice char. If it’s too hot, the outside may burn before the inside is cooked!
- Experiment with Marinade: Feel free to tweak the marinade to your taste! Add a splash of hot sauce if you like a kick or some chopped green onions for extra freshness.
- Let It Rest: Seriously, let that chicken rest! It makes a huge difference in juiciness. I promise, it’s worth the wait!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be the huli huli chicken master in no time! Enjoy grilling!
Variations
Now, let’s get creative with this quick huli huli chicken! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, so feel free to mix things up and make it your own. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Swap the Protein: While chicken thighs are fantastic, you can easily substitute them with chicken breasts for a leaner option. If you want to go meatless, try firm tofu or tempeh! Just marinate and grill them the same way.
- Add Some Heat: If you like a little spice, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha into the marinade. It’ll give your chicken a nice kick that balances beautifully with the sweetness!
- Fruit Infusion: Want to take it up a notch? Try adding chunks of fresh pineapple or mango to the grill alongside your chicken. The caramelized fruit adds a delightful flavor and makes for a gorgeous presentation!
- Herb It Up: Fresh herbs can elevate your dish! Consider adding chopped cilantro, basil, or green onions to the marinade for a fresh, vibrant flavor boost.
- Asian Twist: For a different flavor profile, swap the soy sauce for teriyaki sauce and add a splash of rice vinegar for tang. It’ll give your huli huli chicken a delightful twist!
These variations not only keep things exciting but also allow you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect huli huli chicken combination!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your quick huli huli chicken, the right sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level! Here are some of my favorite pairings that complement the sweet and savory flavors of this delicious dish:
- Steamed Rice: You can’t go wrong with a heaping scoop of fluffy white or jasmine rice. It’s perfect for soaking up all that tasty marinade!
- Grilled Vegetables: Toss some bell peppers, zucchini, and corn on the grill alongside your chicken. The charred flavor pairs wonderfully with the huli huli chicken!
- Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy coleslaw adds a nice contrast to the warm, juicy chicken. I love a tangy vinaigrette to keep it light!
- Pineapple Salsa: For a tropical twist, whip up a pineapple salsa with diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. It adds a fresh burst of flavor!
- Asian Noodle Salad: A cold noodle salad with sesame dressing, cucumbers, and carrots brings a delightful crunch and a touch of sophistication to your meal.
These sides not only complement the quick huli huli chicken but also add color and vibrancy to your plate. Mix and match to create a spread that feels like a mini Hawaiian feast right at home! Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to savor every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While I love the juiciness of chicken thighs, chicken breasts work just as well. Just keep an eye on the grilling time, as they may cook a bit faster.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Whip up the marinade and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may settle.
What can I serve with quick huli huli chicken?
You’ve got so many options! I love serving it with steamed rice, grilled veggies, or a refreshing coleslaw. It all pairs beautifully with that sweet and tangy flavor!
Can I grill this chicken indoors?
If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can definitely use a grill pan on the stovetop! Just make sure to have good ventilation, as it can get smoky.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, just cut into the thickest part of the chicken; the juices should run clear with no pink inside.
For more information on grilling chicken, check out this grilling guide.
Print
Quick Huli Huli Chicken: A Tasty 45-Minute Delight!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Quick and easy huli huli chicken recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Mix soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, ketchup, and sesame oil in a bowl.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade and let sit for 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve with rice for a complete meal.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar.
- Can substitute chicken breasts if preferred.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: quick huli huli chicken, grilled chicken, Hawaiian chicken
