Crock-Pot Huli Huli Chicken is a flavorful Hawaiian-inspired dish known for its sweet and tangy marinade. The name “Huli Huli” comes from the Hawaiian word “huli,” meaning “turn,” which traditionally refers to turning meat on a grill. This slow cooker version captures all the tropical, smoky-sweet flavors without the need for a grill. Chicken thighs are simmered in a delicious blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic, creating tender, juicy meat with a sauce that’s both comforting and exotic. It’s an ideal weeknight meal with minimal prep and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
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2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (trimmed)
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1 cup pineapple juice
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1½ tablespoons apple cider vinegar
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2 teaspoons sesame oil
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⅓ cup soy sauce
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½ cup brown sugar
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⅓ cup ketchup
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2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
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1½ teaspoons garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons cornstarch
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¼ cup water
Directions
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Arrange the Chicken
Place the trimmed chicken thighs evenly in the bottom of a 6-quart crock pot. -
Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, sesame oil, apple cider vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined. -
Cook the Chicken
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the crock pot. Cover and cook:-
On high for 3 to 4 hours, or
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On low for 6 to 7 hours
until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
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Thicken the Sauce
Remove the chicken temporarily and set it aside. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with the water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the crock pot and allow it to cook on high for 10 to 15 minutes, or until it thickens. -
Finish and Serve
Return the chicken to the thickened sauce. You can serve it whole or shred it for easier portioning. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 316 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 30 g
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Protein: 31 g
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Fat: 8 g
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Saturated Fat: 2 g
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Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g
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Monounsaturated Fat: 3 g
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Trans Fat: 0.03 g
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Cholesterol: 144 mg
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Sodium: 983 mg
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Potassium: 519 mg
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Fiber: 0.3 g
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Sugar: 25 g
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Vitamin A: 107 IU
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Vitamin C: 5 mg
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Calcium: 41 mg
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Iron: 2 mg
Why Huli Huli Chicken is Perfect for the Crockpot
Crockpot or slow cooker recipes are an excellent way to achieve tender, flavorful dishes with minimal effort, and Huli Huli Chicken is no exception. The beauty of the Crockpot is that it allows the chicken to cook low and slow, which helps to break down the meat’s fibers, making it juicy and tender. In a slow cooker, the chicken soaks up the tangy, sweet marinade, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish.
Unlike traditional grilling methods, the Crockpot eliminates the need for constant monitoring or flipping the chicken. The result is an easy-to-prepare meal that doesn’t require much hands-on time, making it ideal for busy families or anyone looking for a quick yet delicious dinner.
The slow-cooking process also thickens the sauce, allowing it to coat the chicken perfectly. This method helps concentrate the flavors in the sauce, which becomes more caramelized and sticky, adding depth to each bite. It’s this combination of convenience, flavor, and texture that makes Crockpot Huli Huli Chicken such a popular choice for many home cooks.
How to Customize Your Huli Huli Chicken
One of the best things about Huli Huli Chicken is how versatile it is. You can modify the recipe to suit your personal taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas for customizing your dish:
Add More Heat
If you prefer a spicier version of Huli Huli Chicken, try adding some heat to the marinade. A teaspoon of chili flakes, sriracha sauce, or even finely chopped jalapeños can bring a zesty kick to the dish. The heat complements the sweetness of the pineapple and brown sugar, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Make It Healthier
For a healthier take on Huli Huli Chicken, you can reduce the amount of sugar used in the marinade or swap out the brown sugar for a healthier alternative like honey or agave syrup. To cut down on sodium, consider using a low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos. Additionally, using skinless chicken breast instead of thighs can lower the fat content while still providing a lean protein option.
Switch Up the Protein
While chicken thighs are the traditional choice for this recipe due to their moisture and tenderness, you can easily swap them out for chicken breasts, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Pork tenderloin works well in the Crockpot as it absorbs the sauce beautifully and becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked. Tofu can be marinated and cooked in the same sauce for a plant-based twist on the dish.
Add Extra Veggies
For a more nutrient-packed meal, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots to the slow cooker along with the chicken. These veggies will absorb the flavors of the marinade and create a more hearty, balanced dish. You can also serve the chicken with a side of stir-fried or steamed vegetables for added crunch and freshness.
What to Serve with Crockpot Huli Huli Chicken
While the chicken itself is the star of the show, the right side dishes can elevate your meal and complete the Hawaiian-inspired experience. Here are some ideas for side dishes to pair with Crockpot Huli Huli Chicken:
Rice
White rice, jasmine rice, or even brown rice are perfect accompaniments to Huli Huli Chicken. The rice absorbs the savory sauce and complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the chicken. For an extra touch, you can make coconut rice, which pairs beautifully with the tropical flavors of the dish.
Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple slices are an excellent choice to pair with Huli Huli Chicken. The smoky-sweet flavor of the grilled fruit enhances the dish’s tropical profile and adds a nice texture contrast to the tender chicken. You can also drizzle some of the sauce over the pineapple for added flavor.
Stir-Fried Vegetables
Stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers are a great side to serve alongside Huli Huli Chicken. The crispiness of the vegetables provides a nice contrast to the soft chicken and balances out the richness of the sauce.
Hawaiian Rolls
For a fun, authentic touch, serve the chicken with soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls. These rolls are light and airy, and their sweetness complements the flavors of the chicken. You can also serve them as a side to soak up any remaining sauce.
Coleslaw
A tangy, crunchy coleslaw is a great addition to this meal. The freshness and acidity of the coleslaw balance the richness of the chicken while adding a refreshing contrast. You can make a simple coleslaw with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing or get creative with pineapple or mango slaw for an extra tropical flair.
Health Benefits of Huli Huli Chicken
Huli Huli Chicken is not only delicious, but it also offers some nutritional benefits. Let’s break down some of the key components of the dish and what they bring to the table:
Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function. They also contain healthy fats that support hormone production and brain function. While they do have more fat compared to chicken breasts, this makes them more tender and flavorful, especially in slow-cooked dishes like this one. Opting for skinless chicken thighs can help reduce the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
Pineapple
Pineapple, a key ingredient in the marinade, is packed with vitamin C, an essential nutrient for boosting immunity and promoting healthy skin. Pineapple also contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids in digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. The natural sugars in pineapple provide a subtle sweetness without being overly sugary.
Ginger and Garlic
Ginger and garlic, two staple ingredients in Huli Huli Chicken, are known for their numerous health benefits. Ginger has been shown to reduce nausea, improve digestion, and help with inflammation, while garlic is known to support heart health, boost immunity, and fight infections. Both ingredients add depth and complexity to the dish while offering a natural health boost.
Low in Carbs and High in Protein
For those on a low-carb or high-protein diet, Huli Huli Chicken is a great option. The dish is rich in protein, which helps promote feelings of fullness and supports muscle growth. It is also relatively low in carbohydrates, especially when served with vegetables or rice alternatives.
Conclusion
Crockpot Huli Huli Chicken is the perfect dish for anyone looking to bring the tropical flavors of Hawaii to their dinner table. It combines the sweetness of pineapple, the tanginess of soy sauce, and the depth of garlic and ginger to create a truly unique and flavorful meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving something new, this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe is sure to impress.
With its versatility, convenience, and delicious taste, Crockpot Huli Huli Chicken is a recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. From customizing the ingredients to pairing it with the perfect sides, there are endless ways to enjoy this Hawaiian-inspired dish. Don’t hesitate to give it a try — you’ll soon find that this slow-cooked masterpiece is a true winner.