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Huli Huli Chicken

Savory Huli Huli Chicken with Smoky Sweet Marinade

This Huli Huli Chicken features succulent chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and smoky sauce, ideal for a healthy, flavorful dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil Can use vegetable oil or coconut oil for cooking.
  • 2 teaspoons Fresh Ginger, grated Ground ginger can be used in a pinch.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Garlic powder can be used, though fresh is preferred.
  • cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce or Tamari Coconut aminos for gluten-free.
  • 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar Apple cider vinegar can be used.
  • ¼ cup Brown Sugar Honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
  • ¼ cup Ketchup Tomato paste mixed with water can be used.
  • ½ teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika plus liquid smoke for similar effect.
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Arrowroot powder can be used for gluten-free.
For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs Bone-in thighs or chicken breasts can be used.
  • Vegetable Oil Any high smoke-point oil can be used.

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Medium saucepan
  • Large bowl or resealable bag
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium heat. Sauté 2 teaspoons of grated fresh ginger and 2 minced garlic cloves until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, ¼ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup ketchup, and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika. Combine 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cool water, add it to the saucepan, and simmer while stirring for 3-4 minutes until the marinade thickens.
  2. Once the marinade has cooled, reserve ½ cup for later. Pour the remaining marinade over 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a large bowl or resealable bag, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag, removing excess air, or cover the bowl tightly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but up to 4 hours for best flavor.
  3. About 15 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil the grates with a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil.
  4. Once the grill is preheated, remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Grill each piece for about 4-6 minutes on one side, then flip and baste with the reserved marinade, cooking for another 4-6 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  5. After cooking, carefully remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to redistribute juices. Serve warm on a platter with sides like jasmine rice or grilled vegetables.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 27gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Marinade for at least 1 hour, ideally 4 hours, and always check the internal temperature for safety. Cleanup can be eased with aluminum foil or a grill basket.

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