Hello and welcome to this flavorful journey! Today, we are diving into a delicious recipe for Baked Huli Huli Chicken. This Hawaiian-inspired dish is perfect for adding a tropical twist to your meal plan. With its mouthwatering blend of sweet and savory flavors, this baked chicken recipe will quickly become a favorite. Let’s get cooking!
Introduction
Huli Huli Chicken is a traditional Hawaiian barbecue dish that has won hearts around the world. Originally, this dish was cooked over an open fire, making the chicken extra smoky and flavorful. Our version retains the authentic flavors but offers a simpler baked option, perfect for home cooks. The key lies in the marinade, which combines pineapple juice, soy sauce, and other tasty ingredients, creating a rich glaze that makes the chicken irresistible. Whether you’re a fan of tropical flavors or just looking for a unique chicken recipe, Baked Huli Huli Chicken is a must-try!
- For more Hawaiian-inspired recipes, check out Hawaiian Grilled Chicken with Pineapple Glaze.
Ingredients for Baked Huli Huli Chicken
- 3 pounds of chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Fresh pineapple slices, for garnish (optional)
- Green onions, sliced for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Optional substitutions:
- For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
- If avoiding sugar, try a natural sweetener like maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
How to Make Baked Huli Huli Chicken – Step by Step
Step1: Preparing the Marinade
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, chicken broth, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Step2: Thickening the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Add this mixture to the saucepan and stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step3: Marinating the Chicken
- Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a baking dish. Pour half of the prepared sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated. Seal the bag and let it marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Step4: Baking the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in a large baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken.
Step5: Cooking to Perfection
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, basting the chicken with the remaining sauce halfway through cooking. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step6: Garnishing and Serving
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh pineapple slices, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds for a vibrant presentation.
Helpful Tips for Baked Huli Huli Chicken
- Use Fresh Pineapple Juice: Freshly squeezed pineapple juice enhances the tropical flavor of this dish.
- Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the brown sugar by half.
Cooking Tips for the Best Baked Huli Huli Chicken
- Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs retain moisture better than other cuts.
- Broil for a Crispy Finish: For an extra-crispy skin, place the chicken under the broiler for the last 5 minutes.
- Monitor Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions for Baked Huli Huli Chicken
Pair your Baked Huli Huli Chicken with these side dishes for a complete meal:
- Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness complements the chicken’s savory glaze.
- Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions add a smoky contrast.
- Pineapple Salsa: A fresh, tangy topping that enhances the tropical notes.
- Discover more tropical recipes like the Pineapple Cheesecake for dessert!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Baked Huli Huli Chicken contains:
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 24g
- Vitamin A: 5%
- Vitamin C: 20%
Storage and Leftovers for Baked Huli Huli Chicken
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Baked Huli Huli Chicken
- Can I use chicken breasts instead?
Yes, but reduce the baking time to prevent dryness. - What other sauces can I use?
Teriyaki sauce is a great alternative if you’re short on ingredients. - Can I grill instead of baking?
Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, basting with sauce. - What sides pair best with this dish?
Try serving it with Hawaiian rolls or grilled pineapple slices.
Related Recipes for Baked Huli Huli Chicken Lovers
- Hawaiian Grilled Chicken with Pineapple Glaze
: A tropical twist on classic grilled chicken.
- Pineapple Cheesecake Delight
: A perfect dessert to complement your meal.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Baked Huli Huli Chicken as much as I do! It’s a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and tropical flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments—what variations did you try? Let me know if you have any other recipes you’d like to see featured. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
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Baked Huli Huli Chicken – Easy Hawaiian Chicken Recipe
Description
Hello and welcome to this flavorful journey! Today, we are diving into a delicious recipe for Baked Huli Huli Chicken. This Hawaiian-inspired dish is perfect for adding a tropical twist to your meal plan. With its mouthwatering blend of sweet and savory flavors, this baked chicken recipe will quickly become a favorite. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 3 pounds of chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Fresh pineapple slices, for garnish (optional)
- Green onions, sliced for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Optional substitutions:
- For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
- If avoiding sugar, try a natural sweetener like maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Marinade
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, chicken broth, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Step 2: Thickening the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Add this mixture to the saucepan and stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Marinating the Chicken
- Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a baking dish. Pour half of the prepared sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated. Seal the bag and let it marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Step 4: Baking the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in a large baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken.
Step 5: Cooking to Perfection
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, basting the chicken with the remaining sauce halfway through cooking. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Garnishing and Serving
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh pineapple slices, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds for a vibrant presentation.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Pineapple Juice: Freshly squeezed pineapple juice enhances the tropical flavor of this dish.
- Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the brown sugar by half.
