Recipe: Hawaiian Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Salad With Pineapple And Macadamia Nuts
Introduction
Experience the flavors of Hawaii with this delicious and refreshing Hawaiian Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Salad. Packed with tropical ingredients such as pineapple and macadamia nuts, this salad is a perfect blend of sweet and savory. The juicy grilled chicken, marinated in a tangy Huli Huli sauce, adds a smoky and mouthwatering element to the dish. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a taste of the islands, this recipe is sure to transport you to paradise.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
- 8 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
Huli Huli Sauce
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the Huli Huli sauce until well combined. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour half of the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
2. Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the used marinade. Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
4. Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, pineapple chunks, macadamia nuts, red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, cilantro, and mint leaves. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients.
5. Slice the Chicken
Once the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips.
6. Serve
Divide the salad mixture onto plates or bowls. Top each serving with sliced chicken. Drizzle the remaining Huli Huli sauce over the chicken and salad. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro and mint leaves if desired.
Conclusion
This Hawaiian Grilled Huli Huli Chicken Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will transport you to the beautiful islands of Hawaii. The tangy and smoky Huli Huli sauce adds an irresistible taste to the grilled chicken, while the tropical ingredients like pineapple and macadamia nuts bring a refreshing twist to the salad. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is a perfect choice for summer gatherings or any time you want to indulge in a taste of paradise.