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
Scale
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.
Notes
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.
