When it comes to grilling, nothing beats the sweet, smoky aroma of Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken wafting through the air. Picture juicy chicken marinated in a delightful blend of soy sauce, pineapple juice, and spices, sizzling away on the grill. The tantalizing scent is enough to make anyone’s mouth water and dreams of summer barbecues dance in their heads. For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.
I remember the first time I made this dish for friends; we had just finished a long hike, and my family was starving. As I pulled the chicken off the grill, everyone gathered around, their eyes wide with anticipation—the perfect start to a relaxing evening filled with laughter and good food.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor that will impress your guests
- The vibrant colors from the marinade make it visually appealing for any gathering
- You can easily adjust the spice levels based on your preferences, making it a versatile dish for everyone
- Ideal for summer cookouts or cozy family dinners, this recipe guarantees a delicious meal every time
I still chuckle when I think about how my friends kept sneaking pieces of chicken while I was trying to plate it up—who knew something so easy could be so addictive?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly; adjust depending on your crowd size.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves for the best flavor; they really elevate the marinade.
Pineapple Juice: Freshly squeezed is best, but store-bought works in a pinch to add sweetness.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep things balanced without overpowering saltiness.
Brown Sugar: Adds caramelization and depth; make sure it’s packed tightly for maximum sweetness.
Ground Ginger: Just a dash brings warmth and an authentic Hawaiian vibe to your grilled chicken.
Sesame Oil: A little drizzle adds richness and unmistakable umami flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
Green Onions: Chopped finely as a garnish; they add freshness and color that’s hard to resist!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, ground ginger, and sesame oil. Whisk together until smooth.
Marinate the Chicken: Place your chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour in the marinade ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for more flavor.
Preheat Your Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). A hot grill ensures those beautiful sear marks and juicy results.
Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade (discard excess marinade) and place on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear.
Add Garnish & Serve: Once cooked through, transfer grilled chicken onto a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped green onions for freshness before diving in!
Enjoying Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken is like taking a mini-vacation right in your backyard! It’s perfect for those sunny days or spontaneous gatherings with friends.
You Must Know
- This easy Huli Huli grilled chicken recipe is not only flavorful but also a breeze to prepare
- The sweet and savory glaze will have everyone asking for seconds, and the aroma wafting through your kitchen is simply irresistible
- Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve juicy, flavorful chicken, marinate it overnight for the best results, then grill on medium heat until cooked through.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap pineapple juice with orange juice or add some chili flakes for an extra kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days; reheat gently in the oven.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Allow your chicken to rest after grilling for maximum juiciness
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried for more vibrant flavor
- Always check doneness with a meat thermometer at 165°F to avoid undercooking
Sharing my first experience making easy Huli Huli grilled chicken was hilarious when my friend asked if I had added a secret ingredient—it was just love (and maybe a little too much soy sauce)!
FAQ
What makes Huli Huli Grilled Chicken unique?
Huli Huli chicken features a sweet and tangy marinade that’s truly addictive.
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in chicken works well but may require longer cooking time.
What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
Serve it with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Easy Huli Huli Grilled Chicken is your go-to recipe for a flavorful and juicy meal that brings the essence of Hawaiian barbecue right to your grill. This dish features tender chicken marinated in a delightful mix of soy sauce, pineapple juice, and spices, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Ideal for summer cookouts or family dinners, this recipe guarantees satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, ground ginger, and sesame oil until smooth.
- Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken and ensure it's well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
- Remove chicken from the marinade (discard excess) and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Transfer grilled chicken to a platter and sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 603mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 47g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor. For a twist, substitute pineapple juice with orange juice or add chili flakes for heat. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days; reheat gently in the oven.