Introduction
Huli Huli Chicken is a mouthwatering Hawaiian dish that blends sweet and savory flavors to perfection. Traditionally grilled, this recipe has been adapted for the crock pot, making it a convenient and easy meal for any day of the week. With tender, juicy chicken thighs cooked in a rich sauce of soy sauce, pineapple juice, and brown sugar, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Overview of the Recipe
Crock Pot Huli Huli Chicken is a slow-cooked version of the popular Hawaiian barbecue dish. The chicken is simmered in a delectable mixture of soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar. This cooking method allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful chicken that can be served over rice and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
History and Origin
Huli Huli Chicken originated in Hawaii in the 1950s. The term “huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian, which refers to the traditional method of cooking the chicken on a rotisserie and turning it frequently while basting with a special sauce. This dish was popularized by Ernest Morgado, who began serving it at fundraising events. Over time, Huli Huli Chicken has become a beloved Hawaiian staple, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the following ingredients: 1 cup soy sauce, 1 cup pineapple juice, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1 tablespoon minced ginger, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Whisk the ingredients together until the brown sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
Add Chicken
- Place 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the crock pot.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully coated with the sauce.
Cook
- Cover the crock pot with its lid.
- Set the crock pot to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked through by the end of the cooking time.
Shred Chicken
- Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crock pot.
- Mix the shredded chicken back into the sauce to ensure it is well-coated and flavorful.
Serve
- Serve the Huli Huli Chicken over a bed of steamed rice.
- If desired, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and a touch of color.
Enjoy your delicious Crock Pot Huli Huli Chicken!
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Crock Pot Huli Huli Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some suggestions to complete your meal:
- Rice: White or brown rice is a classic pairing that absorbs the delicious sauce.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.
- Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas add a healthy and colorful element to the meal.
- Potatoes: Mashed or roasted potatoes provide a hearty side dish option.
- Fruit Salad: A tropical fruit salad with pineapple, mango, and papaya complements the Hawaiian flavors.
Variations of the Recipe
- Spicy Huli Huli Chicken: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
- Huli Huli Chicken Tacos: Serve the shredded chicken in soft tortillas with cabbage slaw and a squeeze of lime for a Hawaiian twist on tacos.
- Huli Huli Chicken Sandwiches: Pile the shredded chicken onto buns and top with coleslaw for a tasty sandwich.
- Grilled Huli Huli Chicken: If you prefer a traditional method, marinate the chicken in the sauce and grill over medium heat until cooked through, basting with the sauce regularly.
Health Benefits
Huli Huli Chicken offers several health benefits:
- Protein: Chicken thighs are a good source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Pineapple juice provides vitamin C, while soy sauce adds iron and other essential minerals.
- Low Fat: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs keeps the dish relatively low in fat compared to other cuts of meat.
- Ginger and Garlic: Both ginger and garlic have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, promoting overall health.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. However, chicken breasts may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from drying out.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken the night before. Store it in the refrigerator and transfer it to the crock pot when you’re ready to cook.
Can I freeze Huli Huli Chicken? Yes, Huli Huli Chicken freezes well. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I use as a substitute for rice vinegar? If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Huli Huli Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of Hawaii to your kitchen. With its sweet and savory sauce and tender, shredded chicken, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it over rice, in tacos, or as a sandwich, Huli Huli Chicken is versatile and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the taste of the islands with this convenient crock pot version of a classic Hawaiian dish.