Discover the exotic flavors of Huli Huli Chicken Bites, a delightful dish bursting with rich tastes and easy preparation. A staple of Hawaiian cuisine, this dish combines a perfect blend of savory and sweet that is sure to captivate your palate. Read on to learn how you can create this island favorite in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Growing up, my family often embraced the vibrant spirit of Hawaiian cuisine during our summer barbecues. I fondly recall my mother marinating the chicken overnight, allowing the flavors to seep deeply into each piece. The simple act of recreating these bites not only adds a delicious twist to standard meals but also brings back cherished memories of those sun-drenched days filled with laughter and the scent of the grill wafting through the air.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out because it’s both easy to make and incredibly flavorful. It’s perfect for gatherings, offering a unique blend of sweet and tangy that appeals to every taste bud. The quick preparation time and use of familiar kitchen staples make it accessible for everyone. Plus, the bite-sized portions mean it’s ideal for appetizing finger food at parties.
Ingredients Notes
The key to perfecting this dish lies in the marinade, which typically includes soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and pineapple juice. Fresh ingredients are ideal, but you can substitute frozen pineapple juice concentrate if fresh isn’t available. Chicken thighs work best due to their juiciness, but chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and pineapple juice to create the marinade. Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step 2
Cut chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces and marinate them in the mixture for at least two hours, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
Step 3
Preheat your grill or a pan over medium-high heat. If using a pan, add a touch of oil to prevent sticking.
Step 4
Cook the chicken bites in batches, ensuring each piece is seared until they develop a nice caramelized coating, approximately 7-10 minutes per side.
Step 5
Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an authentic touch.
Storage Options
To store leftovers, place chicken bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Variations & Substitutions
For a spicier version, add a dash of chili flakes to the marinade. You can also substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option. If you’re looking for gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These chicken bites are versatile and can be served as a main dish with steamed rice and vegetables, or as a party appetizer paired with a sweet chili dipping sauce. Enjoy them during a game night, or bring them along to a summer picnic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the marinade be made in advance? Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to three days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. This keeps the preparation time short on cooking day and lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of grilling? Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, ensuring they’re no longer pink in the center.
What side dishes pair well with Huli Huli Chicken Bites? For a complete meal, serve these chicken bites with steamed rice, a green salad, or grilled vegetables. The mild sweetness of coconut rice or a crunchy Asian slaw also pairs wonderfully, enhancing the tropical flavors of the dish.
Huli Huli Chicken Bites
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 0.25 cup soy sauce low sodium
- 0.25 cup brown sugar packed
- 0.25 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp ginger freshly grated
- 2 cloves garlic minced
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a bowl, mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, ginger, and garlic.
- Marinate chicken pieces in the mixture for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat. Thread the chicken onto skewers.
- Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until fully cooked.
