Easy Pulehu Chicken (A Delicious Hawaiian Grilled Delight)
Pulehu Chicken is a mouthwatering traditional Hawaiian grilled dish. The tender chicken is marinated in a Hawaiian-inspired sauce and grilled to perfection. Take your taste buds on a flavorful journey to the sunny shores of Hawaii with this easy recipe.
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Pulehu chicken is a fan-favorite among locals as well as visitors. The sweet and savory marinade used in this recipe embodies the vibrant tropical Hawaiian flavors.
Traditionally, the chicken is grilled over an open flame. This adds a subtle smokiness to the meat. The marinade gets caramelized when the chicken is grilled.
This locks in all the flavors and keeps the inside tender and juicy.
Whether you are looking for authentic Hawaiian cuisine or simply looking to up your grilling game, this is the recipe for you.
So go ahead, fire up that grill, and get ready to experience the mouthwatering magic of Pulehu Chicken!
Why you will Love Pulehu Chicken
- Easy beginner-friendly recipe
- The chicken is tender and juicy with a perfect caramelized crust
- This is a versatile recipe. You can customize it with different meats or tofu.
- This dish freezes well and is a perfect option for meal prep.
- Brings a taste of Hawaiian tradition and culture to your table.
What is Pulehu Chicken?
Pulehu Chicken, pronounced pu-lee-hu, is a traditional Hawaiian dish. The word “pulehu” translates to “grilled” or “broiled” in Hawaiian.
Traditionally, the chicken is marinated in a flavorful marinade and cooked over an open flame or on a grill. Chicken marinades and flavor profiles may vary between recipes.
This cooking style is commonly found in Hawaiian restaurants. It is usually used when making steak or ribs.
One place that serves up fantastic Pulehu chicken is Mo’ Bettahs. It a fast-casual Hawaiian restaurant. This is a copycat recipe inspired by Mo’ Bettah.
The marinade used in this recipe contains soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar. These ingredients add a burst of tropical flavor.
The marinated chicken is then grilled to perfection. It is caramelized on the outside but juicy and tender on the inside!
Do you need a Grill for this Recipe?
Yes, you will need a traditional or indoor grill* to prepare Pulehu Chicken. The traditional grilling technique is an essential part of achieving the delicious caramelized exterior.
However, if you don’t have access to a grill, you can still make this recipe.
Use a stovetop grill pan* or broil the chicken in the oven to achieve similar results.
It won’t technically be “pulehu”. But you can still enjoy this recipe with these alternative cooking methods.
Pulehu Chicken Vs Teriyaki Chicken
Pulehu Chicken and Teriyaki Chicken are both grilled chicken dishes. But they have different flavor profiles.
Pulehu Chicken has vibrant tropical flavors. It is traditionally grilled over an open flame. This creates a caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
On the other hand, Teriyaki Chicken represents Japanese cuisine. Its sweet and savory teriyaki glaze is made from soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and ginger.
You can grill, bake, or pan-fry Teriyaki chicken to achieve a glossy and flavorful coating.
Pulehu Chicken vs Huli Huli Chicken Recipe
Both pulehu and huli huli are grilled chicken recipes . But huli huli chicken is turned constantly as it is cooked. In fact, the term huli means “turn” in Hawaiian.
Huli Huli Chicken is grilled on a rotisserie or over indirect heat. The chicken is also basted with the marinade as it rotates.
The marinade for huli huli chicken often includes ingredients like soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and pineapple juice.
You can use the same marinade and cook it on a grill instead of a rotisserie to make it pulehu.
Ingredients for Pulehu Chicken
Find the full ingredient list and full recipe in the recipe card below.
Chicken: Choose boneless, skinless chicken pieces. I prefer boneless skinless chicken thighs. They are super juicy and stay tender when even when cooking over high heat.
Soy Sauce*: Provides a savory, umami base for the marinade. You can also use coconut aminos* in its place.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a refreshing and spicy note to the marinade.
Garlic: Infuses the chicken with aromatic and bold flavors. I prefer fresh garlic but you can use garlic powder as well
Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor
Sea Salt*: Enhances the overall taste and helps to tenderize the chicken.
Brown Sugar*: Balances the savory elements with a touch of sweetness.
Sesame Oil*: Enhances the overall richness and nuttiness of the marinade. You can use regular vegetable or canola oil in its place if you prefer a neutral-tasting oil.
Lime Juice: Adds a zesty and tangy kick that brightens the flavors.
Pulehu Chicken Recipe
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the marinade ingredients – soy sauce, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, sesame oil, lime juice, black pepper, and sea salt. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken.
A small bowl of marinade can be set aside for basting later.
Coat the chicken well. Massage the chicken gently to evenly distribute the marinade. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate the chicken.
Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and enhances its tenderness.
Importance of Marinating the Chicken
Marinating is the secret sauce that makes Pulehu Chicken exceptional. It enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
When you marinate the chicken, the ingredients in the marinade work their magic by penetrating the meat fibers. This infuses them with a burst of flavors.
The soy sauce provides a savory and umami base. The ginger, garlic, and other ingredients add depth and complexity
But marination is not just about flavors; it’s about texture too. The marinade also helps to tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and moist when cooked.
The longer you marinate the chicken, the more pronounced the flavors become.
Grill Pulehu Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C). Ensure the grates are well-oiled to prevent sticking.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken on the preheated grill.
Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side. Flip the chicken only once during cooking to achieve a caramelized exterior.
Use a meat thermometer* to check the internal temperature of the chicken. Once the temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), it is safe for consumption.
Baste the Chicken (Optional)
For extra flavor and moisture, baste the chicken occasionally with any remaining marinade.
Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. This results in a more succulent and tender chicken.
Serve it warm!
Tips to Perfect Pulehu Chicken Recipe
- Marinate your chicken overnight if possible. The longer it marinates, the more intense and robust the flavors will be.
- Be generous with the marinade and coat every inch of the chicken evenly. This will guarantee even flavor distribution and tenderize the meat.
- Make sure to oil the grill before placing the chicken to prevent it from sticking to the grill.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing the marinated chicken on it. The high heat will sear the chicken. This creates a beautiful caramelized exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Pulehu Chicken doesn’t take too long to cook. Keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat.
- As you grill the chicken, periodically baste it with any leftover marinade. This will add an extra layer of flavor to the chicken.
- Make sure the chicken is fully cooked using a meat thermometer*. Chicken is cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once the chicken is done, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in more tender and flavorful meat.
Serving Suggestions
These are my favorite sides to serve with Pulehu Chicken to complete the meal :
- Rice: Pulehu Chicken pairs well with white rice or brown rice.
- Grilled Pineapple: Grilling pineapple brings out its natural sweetness and adds a delightful charred flavor. The juicy and caramelized pineapple slices add a burst of tropical freshness.
- Macaroni Salad: It is a classic Hawaiian side dish. The cool and creamy Mac salad balances out the savory flavors of the chicken.
- Grilled Vegetables: This can also be served with a side of grilled Zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and asparagus.
Storing Pulehu Chicken
If you have leftover Pulehu Chicken, let it cool to room temperature. Then move it to an air-tight container or a Ziploc bag. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to store Pulehu Chicken for a longer period, freezing is a great option.
Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container. It can also be wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Ensure it is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Store the chicken in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing and Reheating Pulehu Chicken
When you’re ready to enjoy the Pulehu Chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing method helps retain the chicken’s texture and flavors. Once thawed, you can reheat it before serving.
There are a few ways to reheat Pulehu Chicken :
- Oven: Reheat pulehu chicken in the oven at 325 F for 15-20 min. Make sure to place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to prevent drying out.
- Grill or stovetop: If you prefer to keep the grilled texture, you can reheat the Pulehu Chicken on a grill or stovetop. Heat a lightly oiled grill or small pan over medium heat, and cook the chicken until it is heated through. Turn occasionally so to ensure both sides are heated.
Pulehu Chicken Variations
- Spicy Pulehu Chicken: If you enjoy some heat, add ingredients like chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the marinade. You can also add ono seasoning* or pulehu seasoning to the marinade.
- Pineapple-Ginger Pulehu : Add freshly grated ginger and pineapple juice to the marinade. This adds a zesty and refreshing taste. The combination also gives brightness and a touch of sweetness to the dish. Also, Add a few tablespoons of coconut milk for even more tropical flavor.
- Teriyaki-Inspired Pulehu Chicken: Merge the flavors of Pulehu Chicken and Teriyaki Chicken. Mix soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and ginger with the traditional Pulehu Chicken marinade ingredients. This gives a fusion of Hawaiian and Japanese flavors.
- Pulehu Chicken Skewers: Cut the marinated chicken into cubes. Thread chicken pieces onto wooden skewers*. You can also add colorful bell peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks along with the chicken. Turn every skewer for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is cooked and the ingredients have a beautiful char.
Commonly Asked Questions
“Pulehu” is a Hawaiian term that translates to “grilled” or “broiled” in English. It refers to the cooking technique used for preparing Pulehu Chicken.
Yes, you can make this recipe with other types of meat. The marinade recipe is also fantastic for pulehu steak, ribs, pork chops, or tenderloins.
It is recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. For maximum flavor infusion, overnight marination is ideal.
Yes, you can use an indoor grill or a stovetop grill pan to cook Pulehu Chicken. Make sure the grill is preheated. Then follow the grilling instructions provided in the recipe.
Yes, you can! Sear the marinated chicken in a hot pan on the stovetop. It won’t technically be “pulehu” but it will certainly be delicious.
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Easy Pulehu Chicken (A Delicious Hawaiian Grilled Delight)
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Thighs skinless
- 3 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 2 tbsp Sesame Oil
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1 tsp Pepper
- 4 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Ginger minced
- ¼ tsp Salt
- 2 tsp Brown Sugar
Instructions
- Oil grill grates and pre-heat it to 375°F.
- In a bowl, mix the marinade ingredients – soy sauce, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, sesame oil, lime juice, black pepper, and sea salt. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Next, place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken.
- Make sure to set aside a small portion of marinade for basting later.
- Ensure the chicken is well-coated. Gently massage the marinade onto the chicken for even distribution.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or ideally, overnight. This enhances flavor and tenderness as the marinade seeps into the meat.
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip.
- Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, flipping once for caramelized exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is cooked. Chicken is safe at 165°F (75°C) internal temperature.
Video
Notes
- Marinate your chicken overnight if possible. The longer it marinates, the more intense and robust the flavors will be.
- Be generous with the marinade and coat every inch of the chicken evenly. This will guarantee even flavor distribution and tenderize the meat.
- Make sure to oil the grill before placing the chicken to prevent it from sticking to the grill.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing the marinated chicken on it. The high heat will sear the chicken. This creates a beautiful caramelized exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Pulehu Chicken doesn’t take too long to cook. Keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat.
- As you grill the chicken, periodically baste it with any leftover marinade. This will add an extra layer of flavor to the chicken.
- Make sure the chicken is fully cooked using a meat thermometer. Chicken is cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once the chicken is done, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in more tender and flavorful meat.
- Rice: Pulehu Chicken pairs well with white rice or brown rice.
- Grilled Pineapple: Grilling pineapple brings out its natural sweetness and adds a delightful charred flavor. The juicy and caramelized pineapple slices add a burst of tropical freshness.
- Macaroni Salad: It is a classic Hawaiian side dish. The cool and creamy Mac salad balances out the savory flavors of the chicken.
- Grilled Vegetables: This can also be served with a side of grilled Zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and asparagus.
Nutrition
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About the Author
Hi! Akshita & Midhun here! Welcome to our blog where we show simple yet awesome recipes for your cravings.
Akshita being allergic to egg, we are committed to providing egg-free recipes along with some vegan friendly options. Read more about us here!
