Baked Huli Huli Chicken – A Flavorful Hawaiian Classic

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A Sweet, Savory, and Irresistibly Juicy Dish

If you love bold flavors, this Baked Huli Huli Chicken is about to become your new favorite dish. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory, this dish takes inspiration from the beloved Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken, known for its caramelized glaze and rich, tangy flavor. Slow-baked to perfection, this version brings out the deep flavors of pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and aromatic spices, creating tender, juicy chicken coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze.

Originally made over a traditional rotisserie-style grill in Hawaii, this baked version is just as delicious but much easier to prepare. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a weekend gathering, or meal prep, this Huli Huli Chicken will transport your taste buds straight to the islands.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 3 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor)

For the Signature Huli Huli Sauce:

  • 1 cup pineapple juice (for natural sweetness and a tropical touch)
  • ½ cup soy sauce (for a rich, umami flavor)
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar (adds deep caramelization)
  • ⅓ cup ketchup (for tangy sweetness)
  • ¼ cup chicken broth (enhances the savory depth)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated (adds a warm, zesty kick)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (for bold, aromatic flavor)
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil (adds a subtle nutty richness)

For Thickening the Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh pineapple slices (for added tropical sweetness)
  • Sliced green onions (for a fresh, vibrant finish)
  • Sesame seeds (for a touch of crunch and nuttiness)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in a baking dish, ensuring they are not overcrowded.

Step 2: Make the Huli Huli Sauce

In a medium saucepan, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, chicken broth, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a low boil. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Slowly stir the slurry into the sauce, continuing to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Coat and Bake the Chicken

Pour the thickened sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, basting the chicken halfway through with the sauce from the pan. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is beautifully caramelized.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with pineapple slices, green onions, and sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make, with bold and tropical flavors that will bring excitement to your dinner table. Slow baking ensures perfectly juicy chicken, while the combination of pineapple, soy sauce, and brown sugar creates a sweet and savory balance. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a favorite.

Variations & Tips

Make It Healthier:

Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a leaner option. Reduce the brown sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet glaze.

Boost the Flavor:

Marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor. Add Sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Swap pineapple juice for mango nectar for a different tropical twist.

Alternative Cooking Methods:

  • Grill It for a Smoky Flavor: Instead of baking, grill the chicken over medium-high heat, turning and basting frequently.
  • Slow Cooker Method: Place the chicken and sauce in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender.

Other Uses for Huli Huli Sauce:

This delicious sauce isn’t just for chicken. Try it as a glaze for ribs, a marinade for shrimp, or a dressing for grilled vegetables.

What to Serve with Huli Huli Chicken

Pair this dish with these classic Hawaiian-style sides:

  • Coconut Rice – Fluffy white rice cooked with coconut milk for extra richness.
  • Grilled Pineapple – Caramelized pineapple rings add natural sweetness.
  • Hawaiian Macaroni Salad – A creamy, tangy side that balances the dish.
  • Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, bell peppers, or bok choy for a healthy touch.
  • Hawaiian Sweet Rolls – Soft, slightly sweet rolls perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers:

Store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating for the Best Flavor:

  • Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warm.
  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until hot, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
  • Air Fryer: Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 4-5 minutes for a crispy finish.

Conclusion

This Baked Huli Huli Chicken is an absolute crowd-pleaser, delivering bold flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner, a dish for entertaining, or just craving a taste of the tropics, this recipe is sure to impress. The perfect balance of sweet and savory, combined with the juiciness of the chicken and the sticky caramelized glaze, makes this a meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Try it today and bring the taste of Hawaii to your table!

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