Homemade Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken with Pineapple and Rice

Craving a tropical escape right in your kitchen? This Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken delivers that exotic flavor, transporting you to the islands with every bite. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and fluffy rice is a delightful way to bring a taste of Hawaii to your dining table.

Imagine succulent chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy glaze, grilled to perfection, and paired with vibrant pineapple slices. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a flavorful experience that captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is as easy to prepare as it is delicious.

A Taste of the Islands: Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken offers a luscious escape into the tropics. This dish captures the vibrant essence of island cuisine, featuring succulent chicken thighs marinated in a blend of sweet and savory flavors.

The chicken is grilled to a perfect char, creating a delightful contrast to the juicy, caramelized pineapple rings that accompany it. Paired with fluffy white rice, this meal is not just satisfying but also an experience that brings joy to the table.

Ingredients that Shine

The combination of fresh ingredients plays a significant role in the overall flavor profile of Huli Huli Chicken. A harmonious blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic forms a marinade that infuses the chicken with a mouthwatering sweetness.

Grilled pineapple adds an extra layer of flavor, with its natural sugars caramelizing beautifully on the grill. Fresh green onions not only contribute a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that elevates each bite.

The Marinating Process

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Placing the chicken thighs in a resealable bag with the marinade ensures every piece is coated thoroughly, absorbing the sweet and tangy notes.

For optimal flavor, it’s best to marinate the chicken for at least an hour, or overnight if time permits. This process tenderizes the meat and enhances its flavor, making the grilling experience all the more rewarding.

Grilling to Perfection

Grilling transforms the marinated chicken into a succulent main dish. Preheating the grill ensures a good sear, locking in juices while achieving that coveted smoky flavor. Cooking each side for about six to seven minutes allows the chicken to reach the perfect temperature while developing a beautiful char.

Don’t forget to grill the pineapple rings toward the end of the cooking process. Just a few minutes on the grill will caramelize the sugars, resulting in a sweet, smoky complement to the chicken.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation

Presentation can elevate the dining experience. Serving the sliced Huli Huli Chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice creates a comforting base for the dish. The grilled pineapple rings can be artfully arranged on top or to the side, adding a pop of color and a tropical touch.

Garnishing with chopped green onions not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also provides a fresh crunch that balances the sweetness of the dish. The vibrant colors of the chicken and pineapple against the backdrop of rice create a visually enticing plate.

A Tropical Dining Experience

Setting the scene can further enhance the enjoyment of this dish. Imagine enjoying your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken surrounded by tropical decor, perhaps with palm leaves and colorful flowers adorning the table.

This dish is perfect for family gatherings, casual weeknight dinners, or themed parties. It invites everyone to savor the flavors of Hawaii, making each meal feel like a little getaway.

A Taste of the Islands: Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

This Huli Huli Chicken recipe features tender, marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection, served alongside sweet, caramelized pineapple and a bed of fluffy rice. The sweet and savory flavors meld beautifully, offering a taste that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 cup pineapple rings, grilled
• Chopped green onions for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Grill the Pineapple: During the last few minutes of grilling, add pineapple rings to the grill and cook until caramelized, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Serve: Slice the chicken and serve it over cooked white rice, topped with grilled pineapple and garnished with chopped green onions.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinate Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g