Hey guys! Ever wondered about that smoky, sweet, and savory chicken you tried on your trip to Hawaii? Chances are, you've tasted the magic of Huli Huli Chicken. This iconic Hawaiian BBQ dish is famous for its unique cooking method and mouthwatering flavor. The name "Huli" means "turn" in Hawaiian, referring to the way the chicken is flipped during grilling. Let's dive into what makes this recipe so special and how you can recreate it at home.

What is Huli Huli Chicken?

Huli Huli Chicken is more than just grilled chicken; it’s an experience. Traditionally, it’s cooked on a spit between two grills over kiawe wood, giving it a distinctive smoky flavor. The chicken is basted with a sweet and savory sauce, often featuring ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, and pineapple juice. The constant turning, or "huli-ing," ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and is drenched in that delicious sauce. The result? A juicy, flavorful bird with a beautiful caramelized glaze that’s simply irresistible.

The Origins and History: The history of Huli Huli Chicken is as rich as its flavor. It all started in 1955 when Ernest Morgado, a businessman, and Mike Asagi, an agricultural extension agent, created a special chicken marinade for a farmers' gathering. They cooked the chicken using a makeshift spit, and the rest, as they say, is history. Morgado trademarked the term "Huli Huli Chicken," and it quickly became a staple at fundraisers and roadside stands across Hawaii. Although the original recipe remains a closely guarded secret, many variations have emerged, each with its own unique twist.

Key Ingredients and Flavors: The beauty of Huli Huli Chicken lies in its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Soy sauce provides a salty umami base, while brown sugar and pineapple juice add sweetness and a touch of tropical tang. Ginger and garlic bring warmth and depth, complementing the richness of the chicken. Some recipes also include ingredients like sesame oil, rice vinegar, and even a touch of chili for an extra kick. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps to tenderize it, ensuring a juicy and succulent result.

Why It's So Popular: Huli Huli Chicken's popularity stems from its amazing taste and the communal way it’s often enjoyed. In Hawaii, it’s a common sight to see Huli Huli Chicken being cooked at outdoor events, bringing people together with its enticing aroma. The combination of flavors appeals to a wide range of palates, and the grilling process adds a smoky depth that elevates the dish to something truly special. Plus, it's just plain fun to say "Huli Huli!"

Essential Ingredients for Huli Huli Chicken

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. To make killer Huli Huli Chicken at home, you'll need a few key ingredients. Don't worry; most of them are pantry staples!

• Chicken: Obviously! A whole chicken, butterflied or cut into pieces, works best. You can also use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks.
• Soy Sauce: This forms the savory base of the marinade. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.
• Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that beautiful caramelized glaze.
• Pineapple Juice: This adds a tropical tang and helps tenderize the chicken. Fresh or canned works fine.
• Ginger: Freshly grated ginger is best for its pungent flavor.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a savory depth to the marinade.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds acidity and balance to the marinade.
• Sesame Oil: A touch of sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
• Optional: Some recipes call for ingredients like ketchup, honey, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

• Soy Sauce: If you're watching your sodium intake, you can use coconut aminos as a substitute for soy sauce. It has a similar flavor profile but with less sodium.
• Brown Sugar: Honey or maple syrup can be used in place of brown sugar for a slightly different flavor.
• Pineapple Juice: If you don't have pineapple juice on hand, you can use apple juice or even orange juice as a substitute.
• Ginger and Garlic: Ginger and garlic paste can be used in place of fresh ginger and garlic, but the flavor won't be quite as potent.
• Rice Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used as a substitute for rice vinegar.

Step-by-Step Huli Huli Chicken Recipe

Okay, let's get cooking! Here’s a simple yet delicious Huli Huli Chicken recipe you can try at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), butterflied or cut into pieces
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Equipment

• Large bowl or resealable bag
• Grill or oven
• Tongs
• Basting brush

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in the bowl with the marinade (or in a resealable bag). Make sure the chicken is fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F or 175-200°C).
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 15-20 minutes, then flip and continue grilling for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork. Baste the chicken with the remaining marinade every 5-10 minutes while grilling.
5. Oven Option: If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the chicken in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until cooked through, basting with the marinade every 15 minutes.
6. Rest and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill or oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a wedge of pineapple. Serve hot with rice, coleslaw, or your favorite sides. Enjoy your homemade Huli Huli Chicken!

Tips for Perfect Huli Huli Chicken

Want to take your Huli Huli Chicken to the next level? Here are some tips and tricks to ensure it turns out perfect every time.

• Marinate Long Enough: Don't skimp on the marinating time. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more flavorful and tender it will be. Overnight is ideal.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
• Don't Overcrowd the Grill: If you're grilling multiple pieces of chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the grill. This can lower the temperature and cause the chicken to steam instead of grill.
• Baste Frequently: Basting the chicken with the marinade while grilling helps to create that beautiful caramelized glaze and keeps the chicken moist.
• Control the Heat: Keep the grill at a medium heat to prevent the chicken from burning on the outside before it's cooked through on the inside.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 10 minutes before carving or serving helps to redistribute the juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Huli Huli Chicken is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with the right side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to complete your Hawaiian feast.

• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing! The rice soaks up the delicious Huli Huli sauce.
• Coleslaw: The cool, creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
• Macaroni Salad: Another Hawaiian staple, macaroni salad adds a creamy and tangy element to the meal.
• Grilled Pineapple: The sweetness of grilled pineapple complements the savory chicken perfectly.
• Poi: For a truly authentic Hawaiian experience, serve your Huli Huli Chicken with poi, a traditional dish made from taro root.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh and healthy option.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

While the classic Huli Huli Chicken recipe is amazing, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Here are a few variations to try.

• Spicy Huli Huli Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Honey Garlic Huli Huli Chicken: Substitute some of the brown sugar with honey for a sweeter and stickier glaze. Add extra garlic for a bolder flavor.
• Citrus Huli Huli Chicken: Add some orange or lemon zest and juice to the marinade for a bright and citrusy twist.
• Teriyaki Huli Huli Chicken: Use teriyaki sauce as a base for the marinade, adding ginger, garlic, and a touch of pineapple juice for a Hawaiian flair.
• Slow Cooker Huli Huli Chicken: For an easier option, cook the chicken in a slow cooker. Simply place the marinated chicken in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken and serve over rice.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Huli Huli Chicken is a fantastic dish that brings the flavors of Hawaii right to your backyard. With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at your next BBQ or family gathering. Give this recipe a try, and don't be afraid to experiment with different variations to find your own perfect Huli Huli Chicken. Aloha and happy cooking!