Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian gem that makes taste buds dance. It’s all about that juicy, sweet, and savory harmony.
We’ve all been there, scratching our heads, wondering what side dishes will elevate this meal to legendary status. The answer isn’t as elusive as you might think.
In our kitchen experiments, we discovered magic. Yes, side dishes that don’t just sit there but sing in harmony with Huli Huli Chicken.
Trust, this lineup we’ve gathered? Chef’s kiss. Prepare to impress.
We’re not gatekeeping; we’re sharing the wealth.
Why Consider Serving Side Dishes with Huli Huli Chicken?
Since we’re talking about a traditional meal, it’s best that you carefully pick a complementing side dish without overwhelming its taste.
It’s essential that you choose the right side dish that pairs well with this juicy chicken to enjoy its delicious, tender, and rich flavor.
Huli huli chicken can be served with roasted or grilled vegetables, rice, macaroni salad, etc.
You should consider serving side dishes with huli huli chicken to enhance its taste or add more nutrition.
Moreover, adding some colorful and healthy side dishes to your plate does make it look more appetizing.
What to Serve with Huli Huli Chicken? 7 BEST Side Dishes
It can be from fresh salads, vegetables, classic potatoes, and more.
Here are some of the best side dishes to pair with your huli huli chicken:
1 – Plain Rice
If you wish to savor the tasty huli huli chicken, there’s no better option than a bowl of plain steamed rice.
Rice is commonly used, but it’s versatile, and by pairing it with traditional Hawaiian chicken, you will enjoy a flavorsome meal.
You can serve it as a base for the chicken and let the rice soak in the juicy sauce.
That way, you can enjoy the meal without disturbing its original flavor.
Or, if you want to add more taste, you can always add seasonings to your rice.
2 – Steamed Broccoli
When the main dish has a rich flavor, it’s best to keep the sides simple to be on the safe side.
Steamed broccoli paired with huli huli chicken brings out a good taste and balances the sweetness of the chicken.
Also, to appreciate the natural flavor of both dishes, avoid adding multiple ingredients to your vegetable.
You can simply garnish it with a dash of salt and lemon juice and steam the broccoli to help retain its color.
That way, it will not only look green and fresh on your plate but will also taste great.
Plus, broccoli is a superfood packed with antioxidants and fiber.
3 – Tropical Fruit Salad
Want to enjoy a Hawaiian-inspired feast? Why not add a tropical fruit salad as a side dish to your tasty chicken.
You can use fruits like papaya, mango, and pineapple.
Or, if you need more flavor, you can skewer them with a glaze of honey-lime and lightly grill them.
It will add a smoky, rich taste that you will love.
Also, these fruits are highly nutritious, and you’ll enjoy a tasty, healthy meal.
4 – Pineapple Salsa
This combination is another Hawaiian-inspired dish with a burst of flavor.
Serving huli huli chicken with pineapple salsa is a winner.
You can’t go wrong with this combination.
This chicken dish has an intense flavor and pairs exceptionally well with pineapple salsa.
You can dress your side dish with ingredients like jalapeños, pepper, onion, and a squeeze of lime juice.
It’s easy to prepare and is totally refreshing for a wonderful summer treat.
And what more? Pineapple is rich in vitamin c, nutrients, and antioxidants that add value to your health.
5 – Cauliflower Rice
Cauliflower rice is a common side dish and works well with huli huli chicken.
Not only that, but it’s versatile and is one of the healthiest vegetables.
Cauliflower has a mild taste, while the chicken is quite flavorful.
So pairing these two together offers excellent support.
Moreover, the veggie doesn’t overpower the dish and complements it fairly well.
It’s tasty, easy to prepare, and will undoubtedly impress your guests.
Or, as an alternative, you can also mash the cauliflower, stream, or boil it.
Either way, you’ll enjoy a good amount of nutrients and proteins with every bite.
6 – Roasted Vegetables
A veggie lover? Then this side dish should be on your menu.
What’s better than colorful, healthy vegetables that are delicious and go well with huli huli chicken.
For a beautiful presentation, you can go for veggies like parsnips, beetroot, carrots, and brussel sprouts.
Or, if you want to add sweetness, you can use turnips and sweet potatoes.
Roasting vegetables is easy, and the caramelized nutty flavor adds a rich taste.
For seasoning and to spice it a little bit, use flavorings like garlic, pepper, rosemary, and thyme leaves.
7 – Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
If you want to try something new, go for stuffed sweet potatoes.
It’s a rare combination and adds a nice touch to your dish.
The potato’s sweet flavor adds to the chicken’s sweetness and is, of course, healthy.
For stuffing, you can use bacon, pineapple, or cheese, that complements the tender sweet chicken.
Or, you can also serve baked sweet potatoes.
Poke a few holes, microwave them, and season with salt and pepper.
Moreover, sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins, nutrients, and minerals and provide several health benefits.
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