Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos

If you’re looking for a fun twist on Taco Tuesday, let me introduce you to my favorite Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos! This recipe is not only bursting with tropical flavors but also incredibly easy to whip up. The combination of tender, marinated chicken with a bright and refreshing salsa makes these tacos a hit at family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Plus, they’re perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this dish even more special is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick meal, these Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos will surely bring smiles around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 35 minutes of prep, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly Delight: The sweet and savory flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using wholesome ingredients means you can enjoy tasty tacos without any guilt.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for an even easier cooking experience later on.
• Versatile Options: You can easily customize the toppings to suit your family’s tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos come together using simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather everything we need for this delightful dish!

For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 6 tablespoons ketchup
• 6 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons chicken broth
• 1 1/4 teaspoons fresh ginger (minced)
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic (minced)

For the Tacos

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 24 mini corn tortillas

For the Salsa

• 1 cup pineapple (diced)
• 1 cup fresh mango (diced)
• 1 cup avocado (diced)
• 1/2 cup cilantro (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• pinch sea salt

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add more crunch: Toss in some shredded cabbage or jicama for an extra layer of texture in your tacos.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your marinade.
• Go tropical: Experiment with other fruits like papaya or kiwi in your salsa for a unique twist.

How to Make Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, chicken broth, ginger, and garlic. This marinade is what gives our chicken that signature sweet and tangy flavor! Be sure to reserve one cup of this marinade in a separate bowl for later use. Then, add your chicken pieces to the main bowl and coat them thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes; this step allows all those wonderful flavors to soak into the chicken.

Step 2: Make the Salsa

While your chicken marinates, let’s whip up that fantastic salsa! In another large bowl, combine diced pineapple, mango, avocado, cilantro, and lime juice. Gently toss everything together; this will create a vibrant topping full of freshness and color. Don’t forget to sprinkle with sea salt before covering it up and setting it aside—this helps enhance all those amazing flavors.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Heat a grill pan over medium heat and lightly brush it with oil or cooking spray. After draining the marinated chicken (and discarding that marinade), place it on the grill pan. Grill covered for about 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked and no longer pink inside—trust me; using a meat thermometer will take out all guessing! Baste occasionally with your reserved marinade for added flavor. Once done, dice up that delicious grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos

Now comes the fun part! Grab those mini corn tortillas and divide your grilled chicken and fresh salsa among them. Serve immediately while they’re warm and inviting! Enjoy each bite as you sink into those tropical flavors paired beautifully with crunchy toppings.

There you have it—your own delicious Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos ready to impress! Enjoy these at any occasion or simply as a treat during your weeknight meals. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos

These tacos are not only delicious but also quite simple to prepare, and with a few expert touches, you can make them even better!

• Marinate Longer: If time allows, marinate the chicken for a few hours or even overnight. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken, giving your tacos a richer taste.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh pineapple, mango, and avocado will bring vibrant flavors to your salsa. Fresh produce is not only tastier but also more nutritious!
• Grill with Care: Ensure your grill pan is adequately heated before adding the chicken. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and ensures even cooking.
• Experiment with Tortillas: While mini corn tortillas are delicious, feel free to try whole wheat or spinach tortillas for added flavor and nutrition!
• Customize Your Salsa: Don’t hesitate to add other fruits or herbs to your salsa. Chopped jalapeños for heat or diced red onion for crunch can elevate the freshness of your dish!

How to Serve Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos

Serving these Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos can be a fun and colorful affair! Imagine a vibrant taco night where everyone can build their own tacos while enjoying the tropical flavors.

Garnishes

• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime adds a zesty punch that brightens up the flavors in every bite.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a kick, fresh or pickled jalapeños can provide just the right amount of heat.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Coconut Rice: Fluffy coconut rice pairs wonderfully with these tacos, offering a creamy texture that balances out the savory elements.
• Mango Salad: A light mango salad with lime dressing brings additional sweetness and freshness that ties in beautifully with the tropical theme.
• Black Bean Salad: A chilled black bean salad with corn, bell peppers, and cilantro adds protein and fiber while providing vibrant color on your plate.
• Grilled Veggies: Grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and onions enhance your meal’s healthiness while providing smoky flavors that harmonize well with the chicken.

With these serving ideas and tips in mind, your Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos will surely impress at any dinner table! Enjoy creating this delightful dish that transports you straight to paradise!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken and salsa ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers.
• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
• If you have extra tortillas, keep them in a sealed bag at room temperature.

Freezing

• Freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• The salsa is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen without avocado for up to 1 month; add avocado when ready to serve.

Reheating

• Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat the chicken on a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For best results, warm tortillas briefly on a hot skillet or grill.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos:

Can I use other types of meat for Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even firm tofu for a plant-based option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos spicy?

To add some heat, incorporate chopped jalapeños into your salsa or drizzle your tacos with hot sauce before serving. It will elevate the flavors beautifully!

What should I serve with Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos?

These tacos pair wonderfully with a side of coconut rice, black beans, or a fresh green salad. They also make a great addition to taco night alongside other fun toppings!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make these Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos as I am! This dish brings together vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients that are sure to impress your family or friends. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share how they turn out! Happy cooking!